Republic Day in India is a vibrant celebration of the nation's rich heritage and unity. In 2024, the day becomes even more special when we add a twist of health and patriotism to our snacks.
To commemorate this occasion, incorporating the tricolour – saffron, white, and green – into our food not only pays homage to the Indian flag but also ensures a balanced and nutritious diet. This year, let's ditch the usual fare for something more creative and healthy. Presenting five tricolour snacks that are not just visually appealing but packed with nutrients.
From the popular Gujarati dish Dhokla to the South Indian favourite, Rava Idli, each recipe is given a tricolour makeover. Here are some of the delightful dishes, perfect for adding a patriotic zest to your Republic Day celebrations.
5 Healthy Snacks You Can Make At Home This Republic Day
1. Tricolour Dhokla
This unique version of the classic Gujarati snack is a visual treat and a healthy option. To create the tricolour effect, the bottom layer is infused with carrot juice, giving it a vibrant saffron hue and a subtle sweetness. The middle layer remains the traditional white, made from a fermented rava (semolina) batter, which is light and fluffy. The top layer is enriched with spinach puree, contributing a lush green colour and adding a dose of iron and vitamins. Steamed to perfection, these dhoklas are soft, spongy, and packed with the goodness of vegetables.
2. Tricolour Rava Idli
These idlis offer a nutritious twist to the South Indian favourite. The base layer is mixed with carrot puree, imparting a bright orange colour and a hint of earthy sweetness. The middle layer is the classic white idli, soft and steamed, made from a fermented batter of rava and yoghurt, rich in protein and carbs. The top layer includes spinach puree, giving it a green colour and making it rich in fibre and minerals. Served with a range of chutneys, these idlis are a delightful way to start the Republic Day festivities.
Also Read: Republic Day 2024: 5 Tricolour Low-Sugar Sweets You Can Try
3. Tricolour Dumplings
Inspired by the traditional momo, these dumplings are a colourful and tasty fusion treat. The dough for the saffron layer is flavoured with gochujang, a Korean chilli paste, offering a spicy kick and a unique red-orange hue. The white dumplings maintain the classic plain appearance, with a soft, chewy texture. The green dumplings are made by incorporating blanched spinach into the dough, enhancing the nutritional value and giving them a vibrant green colour. Filled with your choice of vegetarian or non-vegetarian stuffing, these dumplings are a perfect blend of health and flavour.
4. Tricolour Paratha
This tricolour paratha is a patriotic take on the traditional Indian flatbread. The saffron layer is made with a carrot puree, adding a natural sweetness and a dose of vitamin A. The white layer is plain, showcasing the original taste and texture of the wheat and all-purpose flour mix. The green layer is enriched with spinach puree, adding a burst of iron, vitamins, and a distinct earthy flavour. When cooked, these parathas are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a healthy and delicious option for any meal.
5. Tricolour Paneer Tikka
A patriotic version of the classic Paneer Tikka, this dish is as flavorful as it is colourful. The saffron pieces are marinated in spices that lend a vibrant orange colour and a tangy taste. The white paneer is kept simple, marinated in a mild blend of yoghurt and spices, highlighting the paneer's natural creaminess. The green pieces are marinated in a mint and coriander mix, giving them a refreshing flavour and a rich green hue. Grilled to perfection, these paneer tikkas are crispy on the outside, soft inside, and brimming with diverse flavours.
Celebrating Republic Day with these healthy and delicious tricolour snacks brings a unique and joyful twist to the festivities. Each of these snacks is easy to prepare and offers a blend of taste and nutrition, perfectly embodying the spirit of the day. So, this Republic Day, let's pledge to eat healthily and pay tribute to the nation's colours in the most delicious way possible.