The monsoon season, which typically lasts from June to September in India, brings respite from the heat and stirs up the desire to cook or indulge in delicious food. However, steering the conversation to food, particularly warm, spicy, and fried dishes, takes over the food scenes in Indian households. It is important to be careful that eating unhealthy treats on these days might impact your digestive system and can increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues. But you don’t need to worry, this guide brings you five recipes that are easy to digest and provide warmth and support for a healthy gut.
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Ginger- Tulsi Kadha
Ginger-tulsi kadha is a popular ayurvedic remedy, renowned for its immunity-boosting and digestive properties. However, according to Ayurveda, the monsoon season can disrupt the balance of the body doshas, so this kadha can help balance the vata ( linked to joints, nervous system and movement) and kapha ( associated with lungs, stomach, and fluid balance) doshas that can worsen during these days. Made by boiling tulsi leaves and ginger leaves, this herbal beverage is known to help fight infections, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of cough and cold, which are commonly seen in this damp weather. This kadha also detoxifies and is typically consumed warm after having a heavier meal to aid proper digestion.
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Moong Dal Khichdi
If you are finding it daunting to decide which one-pot healthy recipe you can cook in this cosy weather, whip up moong dal khichdi for yourself. Moong dal and rice are both rich in dietary fibre, which is why it is a popular choice among those recovering from an illness. To make it at home, wash and soak moong dal and rice for 30 minutes. Next, in a pressure cooker, heat ghee and cumin seeds, bay leaf, and spices. Add soaked dal, rice, water, and salt, and cook for 3-4 whistles. Garnish it with fresh coriander leaves and drizzle a tablespoon of ghee on top, and it is ready to enjoy.
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Ragi Porridge
Ragi porridge is a nutritious and comforting dish, a perfcet breakfast during these rainy days. It is advisable not to skip breakfast, and this rich in fibre, protein, and minerals, porridge recipe can be a godsend for those in a hurry who want a healthy start to their day. To make this recipe, in a pan, bring milk to a boil. Next, gradually whisk in finger millet flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Now reduce the heat and simmer the porridge for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Stir in honey or sugar, or jaggery. Cook for another 2 minutes, and the dish is ready to serve.
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Idli- Sambar
Idli sambar is a South Indian staple recipe that you can enjoy, irrespective of the season. This light and hearty dish combines the richness of sambar, a lentil-based curry, with soft and fluffy steamed rice cakes known as idli. Rich in fibre and protein, and known for supporting digestive health, sambar is a popular choice among Indians during these drizzly afternoons. If you are craving something spicy, tangy, and savoury, skip the unhealthy stuff and try this out for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Also Read: Delicious South Indian Jackfruit Dishes For The Monsoon Season
Vegetable Barley Soup
This high-protein barley vegetable soup with lentils is a nutritious and filling dish. Packed with fibre, protein, and vitamins, it is a perfect option for a healthy and satisfying meal. To make it at home, heat olive oil in a non-stick pan, and saute garlic, celery, onion, sweet corn kernels, carrot, green zucchini, broccoli, pumpkin, and leeks and saute them with some aromatic spices. Stir in the thyme leaves and tomato puree, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the barley, bring to a boil, pour in the vegetable stock, and cook for a short time. Season the ingredients with crushed black pepper and serve the dish hot. The combination of barley and lentils provides a good amount of plant-based protein, while the vegetables add a variety of nutrients.