A child's immune system can only be strengthened with proper nutrition. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are nutrient-rich foods that offer vital vitamins and minerals to help fight off infections. Children may engage in less outdoor physical activity during colder months and shorter days. If they eat healthfully, they will have the energy to continue being active and to maintain their general well-being.
So, let us discuss about the few interesting options you can find for your kids this winter:
1. Vegetable Shorba: Kids will love this hearty, comforting winter vegetable shorba during the colder months. It's a fantastic way to give them warmth and nourishment while introducing a range of vegetables into their diet. This kid-friendly winter vegetable shorba is loaded with vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables in addition to being delicious. This nutritious and comforting dish is sure to be a hit with kids in the winter.
2. Koraishutir Paratha: For children in particular, the stuffed flatbread known as Koraishutir Paratha, filled with koraishuti (green pea filling), has a variety of significance. The main component of the filling, green peas, is high in nutritional fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Adding them to parathas gives kids vital nutrients for their developing bodies. Customised meals are typically a hit with kids. You can customise Koraishutir Paratha to your own tastes by adding extra ingredients, such as cheese, or reducing the amount of spice. Kids who love Koraishutir Paratha might grow to love green peas and other nutritious components.
3. Shakarkandi Chaat: For children, Sakarkandi Chaat, or Sweet Potato Chaat, has multiple meanings. The primary component of Shakarkandi Chaat, sweet potatoes, are a very nourishing ingredient even when fried. They offer vital minerals, dietary fibre, and an abundance of vitamins, especially vitamin A. The nutritional value of sweet potatoes is beneficial to children's overall health and development during their formative years. Sakarkandi Chaat is important for kids in the winter because of its cultural significance, tasty and texture appeal, nutritional value, and warming qualities. Kids can take pleasure in this tasty and nutritious option while reaping the benefits of its nutrients.
4. . Gajar Ka Halwa: The beloved and well-known Indian dish "Gajar ka Halwa" or carrot halwa is usually popular among kids. The ingredients for carrot halwa are grated carrots, milk, sugar, ghee (clarified butter), and dried fruits and nuts for decoration. In addition to its excellent taste, this lovely sweet delicacy is valued for its range of nutrients and cultural significance. Carrots grow best in the winter months in many regions. Gajar ka halwa, which is made using fresh winter carrots, is a speciality at a specific season. The dish's warmth is particularly appreciated in the winter. The primary ingredient, carrots, are a good source of beta-carotene, a nutrient that comes before vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for the skin, eyesight, and immune system.
5. Undhiyu: Gujarat, in Western India, is home to the hearty and aromatic winter dish known as undhiyu. Many winter vegetables, including yam, sweet potatoes, eggplant, fenugreek leaves, and surti papdi (cluster beans), are used to make undhiyu. Since winter is when these veggies are at their best, undhiyu is a dish that is best enjoyed during this season. In addition to being delicious, the vegetables used in undhiyu are also very nutrient-dense. They are an excellent source of fibre, vitamins, and other vital nutrients that are needed to keep one's health during the winter. This popular Gujarati dish honours the winter season and its bounty.
6. Methi Paratha: Fenugreek, or methi, is a wholesome herb high in dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Methi adds nutritious value to parathas and provides vital elements that children's developing bodies need. Fenugreek has a slightly bitter flavour, but methi paratha's blend of spices and other components gives it a savoury, aromatic flavour. Youngsters may like the unusual flavour, especially served with their favourite dip or yoghurt. Early exposure to foods containing health-promoting herbs, such as fenugreek, can help youngsters develop a conscience of their health as they become older. For children, methi paratha is important since it is a tasty, nutritious, and instructive addition to their meals.
Video Credit: Youtube/ Kunal Kapur
7. Tandoori Gobi: Kids can benefit from Tandoori Gobi because it's a tasty, nutritious, and eye-catching dish. It gives them a distinct taste experience, exposes them to various culinary customs, and gives them vital nutrients that are crucial for their development and wellbeing. It's also a healthy and tasty option for kids to eat as a side dish or snack throughout the year, especially during the winter. A nutritious substitute for chips or fried snacks is roasted cauliflower. It is an excellent option for kids who want something nutritious with a satisfying crunch and smoky flavour. Kids' palates can be expanded and new vegetables tried when served in an interesting and tasty way, like in Tandoori Gobi.
8. Apple Kheer: Indian desserts like apple kheer, which are rich and refreshing, mix the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of spices and the richness of milk. Apple kheer is adaptable and may be made to fit a variety of tastes. It can be eaten warm or cold, and depending on personal preferences, extra ingredients like nuts or spices can be added. A child's attitude towards nutrition can be influenced by early positive connections with tasty and healthful foods. The delightful flavour of apple kheer can help create gratifying culinary memories. Apples are a great source of dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Including apple kheer in a child's diet gives them vital nutrients that support their general development and growth.