Introduction

Is it a challenge to maintain a healthy diet while still indulging in tasty treats? Many individuals like myself find that adding healthy and tasty foods to their daily routine can make the journey easier and more enjoyable. In this article, I'll discuss some healthy and tasty options, such as bhel, idlis, and veg biryani, which have helped me reduce weight sustainably.

What is Bhel and Where Can I Find It?

Bhel is a popular street food found in various parts of India, commonly known as jhal-mori in my area. It's a delightful blend of crispy puffed rice, crunchy veggies, tangy tamarind chutney, and a zesty blend of spices. The key to making it healthy and tasty is to use fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients:

Crispy puffed rice Crispy vegetables (e.g., cucumber, carrots, onion) Tamarind chutney Zesty spice mix (cumin, coriander, chili powder, mustard seeds) Herbs (cilantro, mint) Crunchy nuts and seeds (almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds) Tomato

How to Prepare Bhel

Toast the puffed rice and vegetable chips until they are crispy and set aside. In a bowl, mix the tamarind chutney with a pinch of salt and some hot water to loosen it up. Add the crispy puffed rice and vegetable chips to the chutney and toss well. Add the zesty spice mix and herbs, and mix thoroughly. Top with chopped tomatoes and nuts for an extra crunch and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy a yummy and nutritious meal.

Idlis: A Nutritious Staple

Idlis are a delicious and nutritious option for those looking to lose weight. Made from fermented rice and lentils, these steamed cakes are packed with nutrients and are low in calories. They can be eaten plain or with a side of chutney or sambar.

Ingredients:

Rice Lentils Vegetables (e.g., carrot, spinach) Tomatoes (for chutney) Ground nuts (for chutney) Hing (asafetida) Mustard seeds Chilli powder (optional)

How to Prepare Idlis

Soak rice and lentils overnight. Blend the soaked rice and lentils into a smooth batter. Cook the vegetables and set aside. Pour the batter into steamer pots and steam for about 15 minutes. While the idlis cook, prepare the chutney by blending tomatoes, hing, and ground nuts. Serve the idlis with a side of chutney, veggies, and a dash of ghee or relish.

Veg Biryani: A Flavorful and Heart-Healthy Option

Veg Biryani is a heart-healthy, flavorful dish that can be a great addition to your weight loss journey. It is made with a blend of vegetables, spices, and whole wheat basmati rice. Unlike traditional biryanis, which are calorie-dense, a veg biryani can be made with less oil and fewer spices, making it a lighter option.

Ingredients:

Basmati rice Vegetables (carrot, peas, green beans) Cumin seeds Coriander powder Curry leaves Cashew nuts Tomato Spinach (optional)

How to Prepare Veg Biryani

Wash and soak the rice for 30 minutes. Cook vegetables and set aside. In a pressure cooker, pressure cook the rice with a little water until tender. After the rice is cooked, mix in the vegetables, spices, and herbs. Serve the biryani garnished with cashew nuts and fresh spinach.

Additional Healthy Snack Ideas

In addition to the options mentioned above, there are several other healthy and tasty snacks that can be added to your diet to aid in weight loss. Here are a few more:

Sandwiches without butter: Opt for whole wheat bread or wraps and use avocado, hummus, or mozzarella cheese for a creamy yet healthy addition. Mushroom Paneer Tikka: Use fresh mushrooms and paneer cubes marinated in a blend of fresh herbs and spices, grilled and served with a side of cucumber raita. Upma: A South Indian dish made with semolina (rava) and a variety of vegetables. Add a handful of nuts and seeds for crunch and flavor. Pohe: A mixed pulse poha (flattened rice) dish that can be seasoned with spices, served with a mix of vegetables and chaat masala. Brown Rice Biryani: Prepare your biryani with brown rice instead of white rice for an extra nutrient boost. Healthy Smoothies: Blend seasonal fruits with a handful of spinach or kale, a spoonful of almond or peanut butter, and a bit of milk or almond milk for a refreshing and healthy snack.

My Personal Journey

Since incorporating these wholesome and flavorful foods into my daily routine, I have successfully lost 20 kg. By prioritizing fresh, whole ingredients and balancing flavors, I’ve found that healthy food doesn't have to be boring or restrictive. If you're committed to weight loss, give these foods a try and see how they can enhance your health and well-being.