South Indian foods are not just delicious and aromatic, but also fit to be included in a weight-loss diet. These are generally low in calories and rich in protein, which make them perfect for losing weight.
Here are some spin-off recipes along with classics, which you can prepare at home for a nutritious, wholesome meal that will give you energy and you won’t feel heavy after eating these foods.
Alia Bhatt's South Indian style zucchini
Eating zucchini regularly can help you lose weight as it is rich in water, fibre and has a low calorie density, which will keep you feeling full for a long time. Here’s how Alia Bhatt created a South Indian-style zucchini sabzi.
1. Cut a zucchini into small cubes.
2. On a frying pan, heat 1/2 tbsp oil and add 1/4 tbsp black mustard seeds.
3. Stir and then add 2 tsp asafoetida, few curry leaves and 1 finely chopped green chilly.
3. To this, add the diced zucchini and salt as per taste. Cover it with a lid for 2 minutes.
4. Remove the lid and add 1/2 tsp coriander powder, 1/4 tsp jeera powder, 1/4 tsp fennel powder, and 1/4 tsp dry mango powder. Mix well.
5. Add 2 tsp grated coconut and 1/2 tsp coriander leaves. Stir for a while and serve.
Keto Upma
Keto Upma is easy to prepare and is made with cauliflower rice. This recipe is delicious, low in carbs, low in calories and gluten-free. The taste and texture is also at par with traditional semolina upma.
1. Grate cauliflower florets to resemble semolina.
2. Heat one tablespoon of coconut oil in a pan and add mustard seeds.
3. Add curry leaves, ginger, green chili, and asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds.
4. Add onions and cook them till they become soft.
5. Now add broccoli, chopped green beans, mushrooms, chopped bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes. Now add the grated cauliflower, salt, and mix well.
6. Cover with a lid and cook on medium-low heat for 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in between and turn off the flame.
7. Add some water for a softer consistency and cook.
8. Once ready, garnish with coriander, lime juice, and grated coconut and serve.
Rasam
Rasam is another great recipe for weight loss. It is rich in antioxidants and has gastroprotective benefits. It also improves insulin flow in the body.
1. To make tamarind water, soak tamarind in ½ cup warm water for 30 mins. Then squeeze it to a pulp, strain and set aside.
2. Take a grinder and grind 3 teaspoon cumin seeds, 2 teaspoon black pepper, and 6 garlic cloves to a semi-fine consistency.
3. Now take a pan and heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds, two pinches of asafoetida, 2 dry red chilies, and some curry leaves.
4. Now add ½ cup chopped tomatoes and cook till the tomatoes soften.
5. Add the previously grounded masala and mix well.
6. Then add the strained tamarind pulp, water and salt.
7. Let it simmer on a low heat and then turn the heat off. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Ragi idli
Ragi is a great cereal for weight loss. It is high in fibre and gluten-free. Idlis are only low in calories and one idli contains only 39 calories. They are also very healthy since they are cooked by steaming.
1. Soak ragi and rice in a bowl and soak urad dal with methi seeds in another bowl. Soak for 5 hours.
2. Next, grind the rice and ragi to get a smooth, thick batter. Also grind the urad dal with a little water into a batter.
3. Combine both batters, add salt and mix well. Cover and set to ferment overnight.
4. When ready for cooking, grease the Idli Steamer Plates with very little sesame oil and pour the batter into the molds and fill them halfway.
5. Prepare the idli steamer with some water in the bottom and place the idli racks in the steamer. Steam for 10 minutes on high heat.
6. Once done, scoop the idlis out and serve with peanut coconut chutney.
