A healthy diet is crucial for leading a vibrant, active life. Our bodies require all the nutrients, and traditional Indian cuisine is a fantastic source of essential minerals and nutrients. Pulses are a staple in Indian meals, for their delicious flavours and impressive nutritional value.
What Are Pulses?
Pulses are edible seeds from plants, coming in a rainbow of colours, shapes, and sizes. Dry beans, broad dry beans, dry peas, chickpeas, cowpeas, pigeon peas, lentils and many more. These seeds are packed with vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, folate, phosphorus, and magnesium, and they are an excellent source of low-fat protein.
Studies and nutritionists recommend pulses for protein needs because they offer 2 to 3 times the protein found in grains like rice, wheat, oats, corn, barley, and even quinoa. For example, half a bowl of lentils provides the same amount of protein as two bowls of rice or one bowl of quinoa. Pulses are also more sustainable and affordable, making them an ideal choice for both taste and nutrition.
Adding Pulses into Your Daily Routine
The key to a healthy diet is not just about eating the right foods, but also consuming them at the right time and in the correct manner. Here are some delightful ways to include pulses in your daily meals:
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast. Add cooked lentils, chickpeas or Rajma to your breakfast.
Make a salad with a mix of cooked beans, fresh vegetables, and a light dressing. Pulses can also be added to soups and stews, making them more filling and nutritious.
Replace unhealthy snacks with roasted chickpeas or lentil crackers. These are delicious, satisfying, and packed with nutrients.
Use pulses in your main dishes. Prepare curries, dhals, or casseroles with a variety of beans and lentils. They add richness and depth of flavour to your meals.
Cooking with pulses is not just about nutrition; it’s also about enjoying the process and exploring new flavours. Pulses are incredibly versatile and can be used in sauces, dips, curries, bakes, salads (both cooked and sprouted), soups, stews, patties, and pies. Experimenting with different types of pulses can open up a world of culinary possibilities.
Incorporating pulses into your diet is not only beneficial for your health but also for the environment. Pulses are sustainable and affordable, making them a crucial part of food security. They contribute to physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for an active and healthy life.
Conclusion
Pulses are a fantastic addition to any diet, offering a multitude of health benefits while also being kind to the planet. With the versatility and nutritional power of pulses, you can improve your well-being and enjoy a variety of delicious meals. So, start adding pulses to your meals today, and experience the joy of eating healthy, sustainable, and tasty food every day.