Ayurveda places a lot of emphasis on customised eating as per the prakriti or nature of a person. Different diets are assigned for balancing Kapha, Vata, and Pitta. It is also recommended to change your diet as per the season as the right food can help boost immunity. The ancient medicinal practice of Ayurveda that originated in India around 3,000 years ago is known for its holistic effect on health.The alternative medicine system emphasizes on eating satvik and wholesome foods that are cooked and served fresh and warm. Eating foods cooked with the principles of Ayurveda can balance doshas, prevent diseases, increase energy, and build strong immunity.
Here are 5 recipes Ayurveda recommends for optimal health:
Moong dal khichdi with ghee (split green grams beans with clarified butter)
Moong dal khichdi is recommended as a perfect detox food in Ayurveda and it can reset your gut health, easing digestion and filling your body with nutrients. Khichdi is categorised as a satvik food which instills Prana or life force. It should be consumed fresh and warm to reap its complete benefits. Dhuli moong dal or split green grams are combined with Basmati rice with turmeric, salt and other spices of choice to make this one-pot meal. Cow ghee is added on top of the khichdi to make it a satiating and nourishing meal. Best time to eat khichdi is lunch time.
Buttermilk spiced with cumin
Ayurveda texts recommend buttermilk as a preventive remedy against diseases and compares it to amrita or nectar. It has been stated that daily consumption of takra or buttermilk can provide immunity and treat many illnesses. The ancient medicinal practice suggests the drink for maintaining health and treating diseases. To make buttermilk, you need to add 1/4 cup of curd in a cup of water and flavor it with salt, roasted cumin powder, coriander leaves, mint leaves or some chopped ginger. You can have a glass of buttermilk along with your lunch.
Roasted black chickpeas
When the hunger strikes, Ayurveda has the perfect snack for you which is also a good source of protein. Having roasted black chickpeas pr kala chana can balance the three doshas – vata, pitta and kapha. It is easy to digest and filled with fibre. Black chickpeas can be dry roasted easily in a wok with the help of salt or they can be baked and air fried too. You can have them as an evening snack or a healthy snack in between meals.
Lentil soup with veggies
Red lentil soup pacify pitta and kapha dosha and when paired with vegetables with carrots, the nutrition is enhanced. You can sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil. Add spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Add rinsed lentils, vegetables, tomatoes, and a bay leaf in some oil. Cook for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are cooked. You can also add spinach for some extra nutrition. The soup is seasoned with salt and pepper, and served with half a lemon juice squeezed on top.
Sesame seeds laddoo
Sesame seeds or til have four of the six tastes – sweet, bitter, astringent and pungent and by roasting them and consuming them as laddoos, it can balance all the three doshas. Til Laddu have a variety of vitamins and minerals, including phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins. Sesame seeds are roasted and combined with jaggery to make balls or laddoos. This recipe also helps promote digestive health and boost immunity.
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