Beverage Zone
Are you tired of the same old boring healthy food? Do you dream of dishes that are both good for you and bursting with flavor? Well, get ready to revamp your kitchen routine! Chef Ranveer Brar, known for his innovative and accessible approach to Indian cuisine, has some amazing recipes that make healthy eating a breeze. We’ve handpicked five of his best recipes to add some excitement to your healthy lifestyle. Trust me, you won’t even realize you’re eating healthy!
Recipe 1: Sprouted Moong Salad with a Tangy Twist
Ingredients
First things first, gather your ingredients. You’ll need 1 cup of sprouted moong, 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, 1/2 cup finely chopped tomato, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1-2 green chilies (adjust to your spice level!), 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala, and salt to taste. Don’t skip the lemon juice – it’s key!
Instructions
Ready to assemble your salad? In a bowl, combine the sprouted moong, onion, tomato, cilantro, and green chilies. Now, here’s where the magic happens! Sprinkle chaat masala and salt, then squeeze that lemon juice all over. Mix it all well. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. It should be tangy, slightly spicy, and oh-so-refreshing. Think you can handle that?
Nutritional Benefits
Sprouted moong is a powerhouse of protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized. Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, and cilantro adds a boost of vitamins. It’s a winning combination for your body and your taste buds! I mean, who wouldn’t want that?
Recipe 2: Quinoa Upma – A Healthy Breakfast Staple
Ingredients
For this twist on a South Indian classic, you’ll need 1 cup quinoa, 2 cups water, 1 tablespoon oil, 1 teaspoon mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon urad dal, a pinch of asafoetida (hing), 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans – whatever you like!), 1-2 green chilies, chopped, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, salt to taste. See, nothing too crazy, right?
Instructions
First, rinse the quinoa thoroughly. In a pot, bring the water to a boil and add the quinoa. Cook until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Meanwhile, heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and urad dal. Once they splutter, add asafoetida, onion, and green chilies. Sauté until the onion turns translucent. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender. Now, add the cooked quinoa and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot. Don’t be shy with the cilantro!
Chef Ranveer’s Tip
Ranveer suggests roasting the quinoa lightly before cooking to enhance its nutty flavor. Sounds yummy, doesn’t it? I might just try that myself next time!
Recipe 3: Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Chili-Lime Seasoning
Ingredients
Time for a healthy snack! You’ll need 2 large sweet potatoes, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, the zest and juice of 1 lime, and salt to taste. This is where the fun begins!
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into fry shapes. In a bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, chili powder, cumin powder, garlic powder, lime zest, lime juice, and salt. Make sure they’re evenly coated! Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re tender and slightly crispy. And that’s it! Easy peasy, right?
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fries with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a spicy mayo for dipping. You could even sprinkle a little extra lime zest on top. I’m already drooling!
Recipe 4: Lentil Soup – A Hearty and Wholesome Meal
Ingredients
You’ll need 1 cup red lentils, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 carrot, diced, 1 celery stalk, diced, 1 teaspoon cumin powder, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), salt and pepper to taste. Comfort food, but make it healthy!
Instructions
Rinse the lentils. Heat olive oil in a pot. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened. Add cumin powder, turmeric powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for a minute. Add the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Season with salt and pepper. You might want to add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a little zing!
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients. You can also blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture. Experiment and find what you love. After all, cooking should be fun!
Recipe 5: Ragi Dosa – A Gluten-Free Delight
Ingredients
For this healthy twist on a classic dosa, you’ll need 1 cup ragi flour, 1/2 cup urad dal, 1/4 teaspoon fenugreek seeds, salt to taste, and oil for cooking. Don’t worry if you haven’t used ragi before; it’s surprisingly versatile!
Instructions
Soak urad dal and fenugreek seeds in water for at least 4 hours. Grind them into a smooth batter. Add ragi flour and salt to the batter. Mix well and let it ferment for 8-10 hours. The batter should have a slightly sour smell. Heat a griddle or pan. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot griddle and spread it into a thin circle. Drizzle oil around the edges. Cook until golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook the other side. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or sambar. I’m suddenly craving dosa!
Health Benefits of Ragi
Ragi is a great source of calcium and iron, making it a fantastic addition to your diet. It’s also gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions. What’s not to love?
So there you have it – five delicious and healthy recipes inspired by Chef Ranveer Brar. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Give them a try and discover how healthy eating can be both enjoyable and satisfying. I know I’m excited to try that Ragi Dosa this weekend! Don’t forget to share your creations and let me know which recipe is your favorite. Happy cooking!
