Almond sharbat

almond sharbat.JPGAlmond sharbat

The almond is the edible seed that grows on the tree Prunus dulcis, more commonly called the almond tree. Almonds are native to the Middle East, but the United States is now the world’s largest producer. The almonds we buy at the store have usually had the shell removed, revealing the edible nut inside.

Almonds contain lots of healthy fats, fiber, protein, magnesium and vitamin E.The health benefits of almonds include lower blood sugar levels, reduced blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels. They can also reduce hunger and promote weight loss. This makes almonds  close to perfect as a food.

Hi friends Here is a tasty sharbat recipe with badams /almonds. Learn how to make badam ka sharbat,  a wonderful summer cooler.

Ingredients :

  • 250 gm Almonds
  • 1 kg Sugar
  • 1 liter, cups Water
  • 9 black pepper corns
  • 8 Green Cardamoms,  finely powdered
  • 100 gms khuskhus/ poppy seeds
  • 1/2 cup milk

Method :

Step 1.

Soak Almonds / badam in water overnight. Peel the almonds  and keep the kernals aside.

Step 2.

Soak khuskhus/ poppy seeds in water overnight. Strain and keep aside.

Step 3.

Boil sugar, water, and green cardamom / elaichi powder in it. Add half cup milk to remove the scum / froth, keep on removing the scum with spoon.

Step 4.

Boil it to one and half strand sugar syrup. It will be thick syrup.

Step 5.

When sugar syrup is boiling, in a blender take peeled Almonds / badam, khuskhus / poppy seeds, peppercorns and grind to a fine paste. Keep aside.

Step 6.

Add the  almond paste  to the thick sugar syrup, step 4,  mix well. Boil for five minutes more on slow fire. Switch off the stove. Cool the Almonds / badam sharbat to room temperature. Fill it in a wide mouth jar / container for storing in the refrigerator .

Step 7.

For making sharbat from the almond sugar concentrate, scoop out two tablespoons of concentrate in a serving glass. Top up the glass with cold water, stir the concentrate well and serve.

9 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Almonds:

By Joe Leech, Dietitian

Almonds are an incredibly popular tree nut.Despite being high in fat, they are highly nutritious and extremely healthy.Here are 9 evidence-based health benefits of almonds.

  1. Almonds Deliver a Massive Amount of Nutrients

Almonds boast an incredibly impressive nutrient profile.

  • Fiber: 3.5 grams.
  • Protein: 6 grams.
  • Fat: 14 grams (9 of which are monounsaturated).
  • Vitamin E: 37% of the RDA.
  • Manganese: 32% of the RDA.
  • Magnesium: 20% of the RDA.
  • They also contain a decent amount of copper, vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and phosphorus.

Bottom Line: The almond is a very popular tree nut. Almonds are high in healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, protein and various important nutrients.

2. Almonds Are Loaded With Antioxidants

Almonds are a fantastic source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect against oxidative stress, which can damage molecules in cells and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer.

Bottom Line: Almonds are high in antioxidants that can protect your cells from oxidative damage, a major contributor to ageing and disease.

3. Almonds Are High in Vitamin E, Which Protects Your Cell Membranes From Damage

Vitamin E is the name for a group of fat soluble antioxidants. These antioxidants tend to build up in cell membranes in the body, protecting the cells from oxidative damage.

Bottom Line: Almonds are among the world’s best sources of vitamin E. Getting plenty of vitamin E from foods is linked to numerous health benefits.

4. Almonds Can Assist With Blood Sugar Control

Nuts are low in carbs, but high in healthy fats, protein and fiber. This makes them a perfect choice for diabetics. However, another thing that sets almonds apart, is their remarkably high amount of magnesium.

Magnesium is a mineral involved in more than 300 bodily processes, including blood sugar control .

Bottom Line: Almonds are extremely high in magnesium, a mineral that most people don’t get enough of. High magnesium intake may have major benefits for metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.

5. Magnesium Also Has Benefits For Blood Pressure Levels

The magnesium in almonds may also help to lower blood pressure levels.High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the leading drivers of heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure.

Bottom Line: Low magnesium levels are strongly linked to high blood pressure, indicating that almonds can be beneficial for blood pressure control.

6. Almonds Can Lower Cholesterol Levels

Having high levels of LDL lipoproteins (the “bad” cholesterol) in the blood is a well-known risk factor for heart disease.

Bottom Line: Eating 1-2 handfuls of almonds per day can lead to mild reductions in LDL cholesterol levels.

7Almonds Prevent Harmful Oxidation of LDL Cholesterol

Almonds do more than just lower LDL levels in the blood. They also protect the LDL from oxidation, which is a crucial step in the heart disease process.

The skin of almonds is rich in polyphenol antioxidants, which have been shown to prevent oxidation of cholesterol in test tubes and animal studies.

Bottom Line: LDL cholesterol can become oxidized, which is a crucial step in the heart disease process. Snacking on almonds has been shown to significantly reduce oxidized LDL.

8. Eating Almonds Reduces Hunger, Lowering Your Overall Calorie Intake

Almonds are low in carbs, and high in both protein and fiber. Both protein and fiber are known to increase satiety. They help people feel more full, so they end up eating fewer calories

Bottom Line: Nuts are low in carbs, but high in protein and fiber. Studies show that eating almonds (and other nuts) can increase satiety and help you eat fewer calories

9. Almonds Are Incredibly Effective For Weight Loss

Nuts contain several nutrients that are hard for the body to break down and digest.

So, despite being high in fat, almonds are most definitely a weight loss friendly food.

Ref. https://authoritynutrition.com/9-proven-benefits-of-almonds/

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

 

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Fresh Lemon Drink

Lemonade.JPG

Hi friends! Summer is in full swing, hot days call for a summer cooler . Here is a recipe of refreshing drink you’ll love long after Summer’s over! Cool off with this lemony, tasty drink. As a refreshing drink, fresh lemon drink / lemonade helps you to stay calm and cool. The health benefits of lemons are due to its many nourishing elements like vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin A, vitamin E, folate, niacin thiamin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, phosphorus and protein.

Ingredients

  • 4 fresh lemons juice or 1⁄4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 4 tsp  sugar
  • 2 level tsp black salt
  • 4 glasses or 800 ml water
  • 1 lemon, sliced

Total time: 10 minutes

Prep time: 10 minutes

Course : Beverages

Serves: 4 glasses

Method:

Step 1.

Cut one lemon into thin slices and keep aside for garnishing.  Wash 4 lemons, cut into two halves and squeeze out the juice in a jug.

Step 2.

Add water, black salt and sugar in the jug. Stir to dissolve sugar until well blended.

Step 3.

Serve chilled lemonade in glasses, garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!.

Makes 4 servings.

The Health Benefits of Lemons:

Let’s take a look at a few more of the incredible benefits of fresh lemon juice.

pH Alkaline State – It is vital to maintain a slightly positive alkaline state in order to fight off cancer and other illnesses. Although acidic to taste, lemons are one of the most alkaline of foods and help push our bodies to the required pH alkaline state of around.

Blood Purifier – Lemons are a blood purifier and help the body to remove toxins.

Blood Sugar Balance – The acidity of raw lemon juice lowers the impact of any meal on your blood sugar.

Detoxification – Raw lemon juice cleanses the kidneys and the digestive system. It helps the body in the removal of toxins and provides you with a great overall detox.

Weight Loss – The pectin in lemon peel is a great source of fiber that is thought to help overweight people lose weight. Lemons can also be used to bring salads and other dishes to life without adding unnecessary calories.

Osteoporosis – Lemon juice is rich in Vitamin C and helps the body to absorb calcium and fight osteoporosis. Two tablespoons of raw lemon juice diluted in a glass of warm water is good for pregnant women, as it helps build the bones in the unborn child.

Insomnia – in case of insomnia, raw lemon juice helps improve sleep.

Brain and Nerve Food – The potassium found in raw lemon juice helps the brain and nerve cells, improves concentration, memory and calms the mind.

Immune System – Raw lemon juice strengthens the immune system which in turn helps fight many illnesses including cancers.

Infection – When sickness has developed raw lemon juice is an excellent fighter of infection, as it is rich in citric acid.

Cough and Cold – Lemon added to a little hot water with some honey is one of the most effective remedies known for a cough and cold.

Asthma – Having half-teaspoonful of fresh lemon juice, washing it down with luke-warm water before each meal provides quick relief to Asthma. Repeating it as the last dose of the day and starting the day with it also gives very positive results.

Corns – Apply lemon juice a few times a day and see the miraculous results. Bind the corn and leave it overnight and get rid of the trouble soon.

Nausea, Vomiting and Travel Sickness – Take a glass of lemon juice diluted with some water to help with travel sickness and nausea.

Rheumatism, Arthritis and Bone-Related Diseases – As lemons are a rich source of antioxidants, they are an excellent anti-inflammatory. A few glasses of diluted lemon juice is the surest remedy for rheumatic fever, painful joints, lumbago and sciatica.

Acne, Spots and Pimples – Applying raw lemon juice to the face is a popular remedy for acne and pimples.

Hair – The external use of raw lemon juice makes hair shinier and stronger.

Low Vitality – People suffering from low vitality should have lemon and honey mixed water for an immediate cure.

Radiation – As lemon juice is excellent at cleansing the blood and removing toxins, it is a great way of removing radiation from the body. If you have had Chemotherapy, regular lemon juice drinks can help rid the body of any remaining radiation.

Ref. http://www.budwigcenter.com/the-amazing-health-benefits-of-raw-lemon-juice/#.V1a2s

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

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Saffron/Kesar milk

 

Saffron milk/ Kesar milk

Hi friends ! Here is a very healthy drink for the approaching Winter ! Saffron flavored milk enriched with almonds, cardamom powder, nutmeg powder, dried dates/ Sūkhē khajūra/ chuhara and served hot. You will never be able to say NO!!!

Preparation Time : 5-8 minutes

Cooking time : 15-20 minutes

Servings : 4

 Cooking time: 25 minutes

Cuisine: India ,Uttar Pradesh, North India

Course: Beverages

Level Of Cooking : Easy

Ingredients:

  • 20 Almonds blanched and roughly chopped
  • 3 cups Milk
  • 6 Green cardamoms, finely powdered
  • 4 dried dates/ Sūkhē khajūra/ chuhara, stone removed ,sliced
  • a pinch Nutmeg powder
  • a pinch saffron strands
  • 3 tbsp sugar

Method:

Step 1.

Heat milk in a thick-bottomed pan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer on low heat for fifteen minutes.

Step 2.

In a food processor grind the almonds to a smooth paste by adding a little milk while doing the grinding. Add almond / badam paste , cardamom powder, a pinch of saffron and nutmeg powder to the simmering milk and continue to boil for another five minutes.

Step 3.

Add sugar stir, boil for another two minutes, remove from heat. Serve warm in individual glasses.

The King of Spice: Saffron

The undisputed King of all these spices is the Saffron, which, when included in the recipe, gives a royal touch to any dish, savory or dessert. Also known as the Golden Spice, Saffron is unique in many ways. Exquisite, elusive, exclusive, exotic, delicate and the most expensive, this is a spice to be reckoned with and is worth its weight in gold! Elusive because saffron is the stigma of the saffron flower (Crocus Sativus) and each saffron flower contains only three stigmas. These stigmas or saffron threads are handpicked by elderly women from the centre of the crocus flower and it takes anywhere around 70,000 to 250,000 flowers to get one pound of saffron. Thankfully however, only a very little quantity is required to be added to a dish to get that distinctive aroma, flavor and color.

Buying, Storing Saffron:

There are three important criteria to look for while buying saffron

  • Saffron threads (Stigmas) are all red and have no other color.
  • Saffron threads must be dry and brittle to the touch.
  • Saffron aroma is strong and fresh, never musty. 

Storing: Saffron has to be stored in an airtight container away from heat, moisture and light. If stored carefully saffron can retain its potency, aroma and coloring properties for almost three years.

 Cooking Tips:

  • Saffron has to be soaked in water, liquor or the cooking liquid so as to best release its flavor and essence. For one teaspoon of saffron strands use three teaspoons of liquid and soak for around one or two hours to get best results.
  • Do not use wooden vessel to mix saffron as wood absorbs the saffron easily.
  • Turmeric can be used as a cheaper substitute for saffron to obtain the color, but not the flavor.
  • Though a smaller quantity of powder is required in recipes in comparison to saffron strands, it is not very feasible as the powder has a shorter shelf life.

 Ref: http://readanddigest.com/the-king-of-spice-saffron/

Uses Of Saffron

Saffron is widely used in many cuisines around the world, including India. It is used in Indian sweets and sweet dishes, to make syrups, to color food and flavor both food and beverages.

Saffron is also used in the cosmetic and perfume industry. It is used to dye fabrics. In India, it is a part of religious and marriage festivities.

Ayurveda, Unani and Chinese medicine have used saffron traditionally for healing and even Western medicine uses it to treat certain health conditions.

According to Ayurveda saffron balances the tridoshas and increases body heat.

Nutrients In Saffron

  • Saffron contains over 150 volatile oils that yield aroma of which safranal is the one that gives it its hay like flavor.
  • Among the non volatile compounds, alpha-crocin gives saffron its distinct yellow orange color.
  • It also contains, lycopene. zeaxanthin, alpha and beta carotenes etc.
  • Saffron is extremely rich in manganese and has very good amounts of vitamin C, iron, potassium, phosphorus and copper.
  • It has good levels of folates, niacin, pyridoxine, riboflavin and Vitamin A.

Health Benefits Of Saffron:

Saffron has an amazing number of health properties among them are anticarcinogenic, antimutagenic, antipoisonous, cardiotonic, carminative diuretic, stimulant, lactogogue, sedative, aphrodisiac, immunomodulating and antioxinant properties.

Saffron can be taken in foods or beverages to derive its health giving benefits.

Saffron can be used to suppress appetite to control weight. This can be beneficial to those who wish to control their overeating habits.
8 to 10 strands of saffron can be steeped in a cup of warm water for 20 minutes to make a saffron tea like drink. that will provide this benefit. 1 gram of saffron can make 50-60 cups of this saffron tea.

Ref. http://hubpages.com/health/Saffron-Or-Kesar-Health-Benefits-And-More-Of-This-Most-Expensive-Spice

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk 1  Buttermilk

Hi friends! With summer approaching buttermilk is too good to leave out of your lunch menu. Its distinctive texture and tangy taste, buttermilk is one drink which must be a part of our meal. Specially during summers to beat the heat. Buttermilk is a probiotic drink and has great health benefits.

Level of cooking: Easy

Total Time: 5 minutes

Prep Time: 4minutes

Cook Time: 1 minutes

Cuisine : Indian, North Indian

Course: Beverages

Serving : 2

Ingredients: 

  • 2 cups Fresh curd / yogurt / Dahi
  • 2 cups Cold water
  • 1/2 tsp Salt / or salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp Ginger juice*
  • 2 tbsp Coriander leaves / dhaniya leaves
  • 1 Green chili, finely chopped

Method: 

Step 1.

Take the Coriander leaves /dhania patta, green chili (without seeds) in a mortar and pestles and grind them well.

Step 2.

Now take the curd and add the water to it. Mix it well to forms a homogeneous solution either with a whisk or in a blender.

Step 3.

Now add the salt and the paste to the mixture. Stir / blend well and serve cold.

Note:

*Ginger Juice – take 1inch piece of ginger. Grate it and squeeze the juice out of the grated ginger.

Health benefits of the Buttermilk:

– Buttermilk has acid in it which fights germs and bacteria and helps clear stomach and aid digestion.

– It is very helpful for those who are looking to lose weight.

– It is a rich source of Vitamin B12 and so is believed to help fight anaemia and stress.

– Since it contains electrolytes and lots of water, it is the best treat to give to your body to fight dehydration.

– After having a heavy, oily and spicy meal, buttermilk works best to drain out excessive fat from the body and making your stomach light.

– Buttermilk also works as one of the best remedies to treat acidity.

Ref. http://zeenews.india.com/news/health/healthy-eating/top-5-health

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

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Chai /Indian Masala Tea

Indian masala chai

Indian Masala chai is a tasty cup of health!

Prep time: 1 minute

Cook time: 3 minutes

Category: Spice tea

Cuisine: North Indian

Serves: 2 cups

Ingredients:

  • 1 cups milk
  • 11/4 cup water
  • 3 tsps tea leaves
  • 1 tsp Aniseed/ Saunf / fennel seeds
  • 4 green cardamoms , crushed
  • 4 cloves, whole
  • 1″ cinnamon stick
  • 1 tsp ginger, fresh, finely grated
  • 6 black peppercorns ,crushed
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 6 Basil leaves, fresh
  • 1/4 tsp Nutmeg powder

Method:

Step 1.

Heat in a pan water and milk.

Step 2.

Add tea leaves, crushed cardamoms , nutmeg powder,cloves, cinnamon stick, ginger , black peppercorns and Basil leaves boil for 3 minutes.

Step 3.

Strain. Add sugar, mix, and serve hot with doughnuts or hot Cheese kebabs!

Health benefits of Indian Masala Chai:

Anti inflammatory: Masala chai is made up of a whole array of spices – clove, cinnamon, elaichi, ginger and tulsi. All these spices have their own individual health benefits but what makes masala chai perfect to beat inflammation is the fact that all the benefits of these spices work in synergy to help your body. One of the most important ingredients that helps with inflammation is ginger.Another component that makes masala chai a great tool to reduce inflammation is clove. Known to be packed with compound eugenol, clove is great when it comes to reducing inflammation in the muscles of the body. To add to that both these spices are very potent painkillers.

Beats fatigue: For some the best thing after a long, hard day’s work is a hot cup of masala chai. Wondering why? Well, the tannins present in tea help calm the body and revitalize it. Moreover tea contains caffeine – a stimulant. Albeit in a much lesser quantity when compared to coffee, but it has the same uplifting effect as a cuppa. This combination of spices (that helps beat fatigue) combined with a stimulant like caffeine acts as the best way to drive away fatigue. The effects of masala chai are so well known that even Olympic athletes resort to the drink as a ‘banned-substance-safe’ pick-me-up

Fights cold and flu: Believed to strengthen the immune system and keep common infections at bay, masala chai is infused with the goodness of all the antibacterial, anti fungal, anti parasitic properties of its constituent spices. Moreover the immune boosting effects of clove, cinnamon, elaichi / green cardamom and ginger makes masala chai a great way to keep coughs and colds at bay.

Improves digestion: Wondering how that is possible? Well, according to Mickey Mehta, holistic guru, ‘Masala chai contains spices like clove, tulsi / Basil, ginger and elaichi / Green Crdamom. What makes it great for people is that chai on its own is highly acidic in nature but when you add ginger to it making it masala chai, it becomes a great digestive and in fact cuts out the acidic nature of the tea.

Prevents diabetes:  Clove, cinnamon and elaichi are both known to help prevent diabetes by increasing the insulin sensitivity in the body and lowering one’s blood sugar levels. Cinnamon is known to keep the mind sharp and prevent the onset of diseases like Alzheimer’s and clove can help your body better utilize sugars.

Boosts metabolism:  Having a good and active metabolism is usually associated with weight loss, but did you know that a good metabolism is also responsible for other things like  helping your body digest and use food more efficiently. Being an essential part of your health, drinking chai also ensures your entire digestive system is in top condition. Moreover in Ayurveda, tea is known as a heat generating food and therefore helps speed up your metabolism.

Ref.www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/health-benefits-masala-chai-spice-tea/

 

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

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Sweet Lassi/ yogurt drink

 Yogurt drinks are popular the world over. In India, it is known as Lassi, a thick, creamy, delicious concoction, either sweet or lightly spiced prepared with yogurt/curd.

Hi friends! Sweet lassi is a delicious summertime drink that, if taken when the sun is at its peak, keeps you cool. It is also fortifying with its protein and calcium content. You can make sweet lassi in a variety of different ways using the same basic curd stock. Here is how to make sweet lassi. This is the basic sweet lassi.

Preparation Time : 2-3 minutes

Cooking Time : 1 minute

Serves : 2

Recipe Cuisine: North Indian

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Curd/Yogurt
  • 2 tbsp Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Chilled Milk
  • 1/2 cup crushed ice cubes

Method:

Step 1.

Put the curd in a blender, add milk and crushed ice cubes. Add sugar, Cardamom powder.

Step 2.

Whisk the ingredients well in the blender. Serve chilled and frothy, this very refreshing beverage.

Note: You can enhance/enrich the flavor further by topping with a dollop of cream.

Health Benefits of sweet Lassi/ yogurt drink:

  • Lassi, derived from curds, is full of calcium, vitamin D, A and proteins.
  • Lassi also has lactobacillus.
  • According to ayurveda curds are heavy to digest but lassi is lighter to digest.
  • Lassi also keeps you cool in summer.
  • Lassi is said to promote digestion.
  • You can enjoy sweet lassi after lunch but keep in mind not to lunch too heavily!
  • Lassi is filling and you can drink only one big, tall glass and avoid lunch, thus helping you stay fortified while keeping weight in control.

Ref. https://www.nuskhetips.com/articles/benefits-of-lassi-for-your-health

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

Mango Lassi

Mango lassi final4

Hi friends! Lassi is popular refreshing  and one of the most loved  drink of India, a tastier way to add the summer flavors to this traditional drink is the addition of yummy ripe mangoes. This is ideal for healthy skin and provides the goodness of mangoes along with the benefits of yogurt.

 Level of cooking: Easy

Total Time: 5 minutes

Prep Time: 4minutes

Cook Time: 1 minutes

Cuisine : Indian, North Indian, Punjabi

Course: Beverages

Serving : 2

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Curd / yogurt
  • 1 cup ice cubes
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 4 tsp granulated sugar
  • a small pinch salt
  • 1  mango medium size, cut into cubes /or 1 cup canned mango slices

Method:

Step 1.

Wash the mango well, peel it and cut into small cubes.

Step 2.

Take a blender jar, put mango cubes, Curd, sugar and cardamom powder in the blender.

Step 3.

Close the lid and whip all the ingredients together till smooth. Serve Chilled.

Note: Adjust sugar quantities depending on the sweetness of the mango. Best Mango Lassi is made with mangoes without fiber.

Health benefits of Mango lassi:

  • Mango Lassi is sweet Indian-style, smoothie-like drink is a blend of fresh mango, tangy plain yogurt, and milk. Low-fat or fat-free milk and mango keep saturated fat in check while delivering healthful calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. Mango Lassi Stimulates weight loss
  • Mangoes are fat-free, cholesterol-free and salt-free. There is only 1% fat, 0% cholesterol and 0% sodium in 1 mango. Mangoes do not make you fat even if you eat them every day. For example, if you incorporate three mangoes (400 calories) as part of the calories you need each day, you will not gain weight.

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

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Masala Lassi /spicy curd drink

Lassi namkeen 3Masala Lassi /spicy curd drink

Hi friends!Nothing can beat the satisfaction that a glass of home lassi offer. Go ahead, drink up!

 Serves: 5-6

Cook time: 2-3 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 500 gms (2  1/2 cup)Curd (yogurt)
  • 500 ml (cold) (2 1/2 cups)water
  • 1 cup ice cubes
  • 1 tsp roasted cumin seed powder
  • 1 tsp dry ginger powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper powder
  • 1 green chili seeds removed and finely chopped
  • Few coriander leaves

Method:

Step 1.                                                                                                     

Put curd, salt, cumin powder, ginger powder, black pepper powder, green chili pieces in a blender jar, blend the ingredients very well.

Step 2.

Add water and crushed ice, blend again.

Step 3.

Serve chilled in glasses garnishing with fresh coriander leaves. Can be refrigerated and stored for a day or two.

Curd benefits for health:

Curd improves the digestion, the nutrients present in curd are easily absorbed by our digestive system. It also helps in absorbing nutrients from other food items that you have eaten. When taken along with spicy food, it cools down and neutralizes the heat that these foods create.

Some people, who cannot consume milk because they are lactose intolerant, can safely use curd as milk substitute. It converts the lactose present in milk to lactic acid, making it easier to digest. Also, we do not lose out on the nutritional boost that milk provides us.

Health benefits of the Buttermilk:

– Buttermilk has acid in it which fights germs and bacteria and helps clear stomach and aid digestion.

– It is very helpful for those who are looking to lose weight.

– It is a rich source of Vitamin B12 and so is believed to help fight anaemia and stress.

– Since it contains electrolytes and lots of water, it is the best treat to give to your body to fight dehydration.

– After having a heavy, oily and spicy meal, buttermilk works best to drain out excessive fat from the body and making your stomach light.

– Buttermilk also works as one of the best remedies to treat acidity.

Ref. http://zeenews.india.com/news/health/healthy-eating/top-5-health

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

 

Namkeen Lassi

Lassi Namkeen 1Namkeen Lassi / salty Curd drink

Hi friends!Lassi is an age-old Indian drink from Punjab, which is generally consumed after a meal. But there’s more to lassi than being just another refreshing summer drink. The importance of lassi is due to its health benefits.

Time required: 5 minutes

Makes: 5-6 glasses

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups plain curd or yogurt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground dry ginger powder
  • 2 cups cold water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup crushed ice cubes
  • Few mint leaves

Method:

Step 1.

Combine all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth.

Step 2.

Serve right away, garnished with a couple of mint leaves. Refrigerate to store, serve always chilled.

Note: Curd or dahi, is a popular food item in India, all over the country. Made from milk, this dairy product has a lot of health benefits. The nutrients present in curd are easily absorbed by our digestive system. Not only that, it also helps in absorbing nutrients from other food items that we have eaten. It can also be used along with spicy food, as curd cools down and neutralizes the heat that these foods create.

Cooking tips

  • A bowl of fresh curd and fruits is a great way to start your day. Add sour curd to salads and smoothies, which make it taste better.
  • Sour curd is added to vegetable curries instead of tomatoes to make it rich and delicious.

Health benefits:

  • Being rich in calcium, curd is good for the health of bones as well as the teeth. For those who have difficulty in the digestion of lactose in milk, yogurt is an important source of calcium. Curd contains an enzyme which breaks down lactose to aid proper digestion.
  • Curd is rich in vitamin D which helps our body to absorb and use calcium.
  • Yogurt helps you feel fuller and is thus, a very good snack for those trying to lose weight.
  • Eating  curd / yogurt on a regular basis can help absorb the nutrients in other foods as well.Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:
  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition, Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

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