We all love grabbing delicious street food like samosa and kachoris, especially with that yummy chutney. However, while these snacks are tasty, they might not be the best choice for your heart if you eat them frequently or in large amounts.
But don’t worry! You can still enjoy these beloved snacks by preparing healthier versions at home. By making a few simple changes, you can transform these treats into heart-friendly options that are just as delicious.
Why Traditional Samosa and Kachoris Aren’t Heart-Friendly
Traditional samosa and kachoris are often deep-fried and made with refined flour, which can contribute to unhealthy weight gain and increased cholesterol levels. Consuming these snacks regularly can contribute to heart-related issues, including high cholesterol and increased risk of heart disease.
How to Make a Healthier Version of Samosas at Home?
Here are some tips to make your favorite samosas and kachoris healthier without compromising on taste:
1. Choose Whole Wheat or Multigrain Flour
Opt for whole wheat or multigrain flour for the outer covering instead of refined flour. Whole grains are rich in fiber and essential nutrients, making them a healthier choice.
2. Add a Mix of Vegetables
Fill your samosa and kachoris with a mix of vegetables like peas, carrots, and spinach. This not only adds nutrients but also enhances the flavor of the filling. Vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support heart health.
3. Bake or Air-Fry Instead of Deep-Frying
To reduce the fat content, bake or air-fry your samosas and kachoris instead of deep-frying them. Baking and air-frying use less oil, resulting in a lighter, healthier snack.
Recipe: Heart-Healthy Baked Samosa
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, spinach)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Spices: cumin seeds, coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dough with whole wheat flour and water. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Sauté the mixed vegetables with spices and salt until cooked.
- Roll out small circles of dough, fill with the vegetable mixture, and fold into samosas.
- Brush the samosas with a little olive oil.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Conclusion
Enjoying your favorite snacks like samosas and kachoris doesn’t have to be bad for your heart. By making a few simple adjustments, you can prepare these delicious treats in a healthier way. Using whole wheat or multigrain flour, adding a mix of vegetables, and baking or air-frying instead of deep-frying can make a significant difference in their nutritional value.
So, next time you crave samosas or kachoris, try making them at home with these heart-friendly alternatives. Your taste buds and your heart will thank you!
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