The cool breeze blowing across the country has begun giving us winter chills. It is that time of the year when we crave comforting, heartwarming dishes. Along with consuming these hearty dishes like warm soups and desserts such a Gajar ka Halwa, there are ways in which we can manage our weight as well. Welcome the winter season with open arms and a carefully planned weight-loss diet, including some delectable saag recipes to it. These leafy greens available during winter like palak, bethua and others not only tantalise our taste buds but are a trusted companion for weight loss. Let us take a look at the greens and delve into how these winter delights help you shed extra pounds.
How Saag Helps You Shed Extra Kilos
Saag is considered our favourite winter delicacy. It is not only a treat for your plate but also helps reduce your waistline. It is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and various B vitamins, which contribute to overall health and vitality. It's a great source of dietary fibre, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness. Saag is also loaded with minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium, supporting bone health and helping to prevent anemia. Additionally, it contains antioxidants and phytonutrients that may offer protection against chronic diseases. Besides, they have a pretty low-calorie content, which helps you shed extra kilos.
The 5 Tempting Saags To Include In Your Diet
- Sarso Ka Saag
Sarso ka saag or mustard greens, a winter green favourite, combines mustard greens, spinach, and bathua, providing a nutrient-rich meal. Brimming with essential vitamins A, C, D, and B-12, as well as iron and calcium, it's a valuable addition to your weight loss regimen. Just keep an eye on your butter and ghee consumption. The taste of sarso ka saag is a delightful blend of earthy, slightly bitter notes from the mustard greens, complemented by a hint of spiciness from green chilies and the richness of ghee or butter.
- Palak Ka Saag
Spinach, or palak, is the most popular green leafy vegetable to add to your winter menu. Packed with protein, fibre, and carbohydrates, this is the perfect gem for your weight loss aspiration. Made primarily from fresh spinach leaves, this saag boasts a mild and slightly sweet taste. The spinach imparts a delicate earthiness, which is enhanced by the aromatic blend of spices, such as cumin, coriander, and garlic, resulting in a well-balanced and savory flavor profile. The texture of palak ka saag is smooth and velvety, thanks to the pureeing of the spinach leaves after they're cooked to tender perfection. Indulge in this green-free delight this winter.
- Chaulai Ka Saag
This is often paired with makki ki roti and helps in losing weight. Besides, it is a treat for your taste buds and is known as Amaranth Greens. It is rich in vitamins A, C, iron, and magnesium. Being rich in fibre, it helps you stay full for a long time, curbing unnecessary cravings. The taste of chaulai ka saag is a delightful combination of earthy and slightly nutty flavors with a hint of natural sweetness. It has a mild and pleasant bitterness that is well-balanced by the addition of spices like cumin, garlic, and green chilies, which contribute to its overall savory profile. The texture of this saag is tender and somewhat similar to spinach, with a slight crispness that comes from the tender stems of amaranth leaves. Indulge in chaulai ka saag for the weight loss journey.
- Poi Saag
Poi, also known as Malabar spinach, originates from Eastern India and is commonly combined with potatoes and pumpkins in the saag. Nevertheless, this leafy green can also stand out on its own. Packed with vitamin A and fibre, poi saag supports weight loss and promotes a healthy digestive system. Additionally, it's practically calorie-free. The tanginess of poi saag sets it apart from other leafy greens, adding a refreshing and distinctive note to the palate. The leaves are tender and succulent, with a pleasingly slippery texture when cooked, which lends a certain smoothness to the dish.
- Bathua Saag
Also known as pigweed it is a winter delight featured in a variety of delectable dishes, this saag is low in calories and rich in fibre, making it an ideal choice for your weight loss endeavors. You can savour it on your own or experiment with different bathua saag recipes to add a delightful twist to your meals. The texture of bethua saag is tender, but it also has a bit of crunch and resilience to it, making it a unique textural experience. It's commonly cooked with mustard oil and an array of spices, like mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds, enhancing its flavor and creating a well-balanced taste.