Ganesh Chaturthi is a wonderful Indian festival celebrated with lots of joy. While we usually enjoy traditional Indian sweets during this time, it’s also important to think about our health.
So, here are nine healthy recipes for Indian sweets that you can savor during Ganesh Chaturthi:
Date and Nut Ladoo: These ladoos are made from dates, nuts, and a touch of cardamom. They’re sweet naturally and are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. If you’d like you can replace regular flour with almond flour for added protein and healthy fats.
Ragi Halwa: Ragi is a nutritious grain loaded with fiber, calcium, and iron. This halwa is a healthier alternative to the traditional semolina-based one.
Oats and Coconut Barfi: This recipe combines oats and coconut to create delicious and fiber-packed barfi. Oats are known for high fiber content and can help control blood sugar levels. Dried coconut is great for your skin, bones, and ligaments and it can even help lower cholesterol.
Atta Modak: Modak is Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet, and a healthier version can be made using atta (whole wheat flour) instead of rice flour. The filling can be prepared with jaggery, coconut, and nuts, boosting the fiber content.
Jaggery Poha Ladoo: Poha (flattened rice) is low in calories but high in iron and fiber. Mixing it with jaggery and nuts makes for a tasty and healthy ladoo. Poha can be a great addition to your diet if you’re looking to cut calories.
Quinoa Kheer: Quinoa is protein-rich, gluten-free grain with low glycemic index. Substituting rice with quinoa in kheer makes it healthier choice. It can also help lower blood sugar levels which is beneficial for those with diabetes.
Chia Seed Pudding: Chia seeds are full of antioxidants, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Mixing them with milk and sweetening with honey or jaggery creates nutritious and delicious pudding. Let it sit in the fridge overnight to achieve a pudding-like texture.
Baked Karanji: Karanji is a popular sweet during Ganesh Chaturthi. Instead of deep-frying, try baking them for a healthier version. The filling can consist of coconut, jaggery, and dry fruits. You can bake it in an oven or an air fryer.
Whole Wheat Malpua: Malpua is a traditional Indian pancake usually made with refined flour. However, you can make it healthier by using whole wheat flour and reducing the sugar content.
Enjoy these healthier sweet treats during Ganesh Chaturthi!
