Holi is the festival of colours, laughter, and joy. It also brings with it so many traditional snacks and treats that add to the festive spirit. But let’s face it. Most of these delicious treats contain maida, palm oil and high sugar. So, while celebrating, we need to be mindful about what we eat. This is important for our health and well-being. So, this Holi, let’s explore the world of wholesome snacking. Let us look at healthy organic snacks that nourish both body and soul.
Embracing Tradition with a Healthy Twist
Holi celebrations are incomplete without enjoying the traditional mouthwatering snacks. They include gujiya, samosas, and sweets like jalebi and gulab jamun. Gujiya is made from flour filled with coconut, nuts, and sugar. Samosas have a crispy outer layer and are filled with spiced potatoes or vegetables. Jalebis are sweet spirals made from flour, sugar, and saffron. Another favorite is fruit chaat. This is a mix of fresh fruits like mangoes, apples, and bananas, seasoned with spices and lemon juice. These snacks are delicious and much loved. Friends and family share them during Holi celebrations. But they often contain unhealthy ingredients like refined flour, palm oil, artificial colours & artificial flavours. So, it’s better to opt for healthy organic snacks.
Healthy Snacks: Healthier Alternatives for Holi Snacks
Make healthy snacks at home!
1. Organic Gujiya: Don’t use refined flour and sugar. Instead, opt for organic whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners like jaggery or honey to make gujiyas. Fill them with a mix of organic nuts, dried fruits, and coconut for a healthier twist.
2. Baked Samosas: Traditional samosas are deep-fried. Bake them for a healthier version. Fill them with a savoury mix of organic vegetables and spices. So, they are a flavorful snack that’s lighter on the stomach.
3. Fruit Chaat: Replace heavy sweets with a refreshing fruit chaat. You can make this with a variety of organic fruits like mangoes, apples, bananas, and pomegranates. Add a sprinkle of chaat masala and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
4. Masala Roasted Almonds: Coat raw almonds with a mix of spices like turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Then, roast them until crunchy for a flavorful and protein-packed snack.
5. Vegetable Upma: Make upma using broken wheat. Mix this with sautéed vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Season with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and spices for a wholesome and satisfying snack.
6. Spinach and Paneer Rolls: Roll cooked spinach and paneer mixture in whole wheat tortillas. Bake until crispy. Serve with a tangy mint yogurt dip for a nutritious and flavorful snack.
7. Sweet Potato Chaat: Roast diced sweet potatoes until tender. Toss with chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice. Season with chaat masala for a sweet and savory snack full of vitamins and fiber.
8. Quinoa Dhokla: Prepare dhokla batter using quinoa flour and yogurt. Steam until fluffy, and garnish with grated coconut and coriander. Relish a protein-rich and gluten-free snack option.
You can make these healthy snacks at home. Or you can buy organic snacks online.
The Importance of Organic and Natural Ingredients:
Using organic and natural ingredients in your Holi snacks offers numerous benefits:
1. Nutrient-Rich: No synthetic pesticides or fertilisers are used when growing organic ingredients. This retains more nutrients and antioxidants compared to conventionally grown produce.
2. Supports Sustainable Farming: Organic farming practices promote soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation. This contributes to the long-term sustainability of our food system.
3. Free from Harmful Additives: Organic snacks are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. This reduces the risk of bad health effects associated with consuming these additives.
Say No to Artificial Colors and Flavors
Traditional Holi snacks often contain artificial colors and flavors. This to enhance their appearance and taste. However, these additives can have harmful effects on health. Some effects include allergies, hyperactivity in children, and digestive issues. By choosing organic snacks made with natural ingredients, you can avoid these potential health risks. So, you can enjoy a safer and more wholesome snacking experience.
Beware of Hidden Culprits: High Fructose Corn Syrup and Palm Oil
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and palm oil are low-cost, versatile ingredients. So, they are commonly used in processed snacks and sweets. However, these ingredients have been linked to various health concerns. They include obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. When shopping for Holi snacks, be sure to read the labels. Opt for products that are free from HFCS and palm oil. Try and choose organic snacks whenever possible.
In Conclusion
This Holi, let’s celebrate not only with colors and merriment but also with mindful eating and holistic snacking. By opting for organic and wholesome treats made with natural ingredients, we can nourish our bodies and support sustainable food systems. Say goodbye to artificial colors, flavors, high fructose corn syrup, and palm oil, and say hello to a healthier and happier Holi experience for you and your loved ones. Happy snacking and Happy Holi!