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Indulgent feasts, late-night hang out sessions and signature cocktails abound New Year’s Eve parties. The morning after, on the first day of the bright new year, return to the routine with restorative recipes, warm bowls and nourishing preparations that ward off the after-party exhaustion and the fatigue of the long hours spent planning the perfect year-end bash. Easy to digest and light on the stomach, these comforting, reset meals will help you slowly get your energy back for the new week that lies ahead.
Chicken Noodle And Vegetable Soup
If there is any chicken broth leftover from the festive feast, put it to good use on the first day of the new year by preparing a warm chicken noodle soup laced with the savoury touches of boiled carrots, peas and lightly sautéed onions. Add the noodles only at the end and just a touch of light soy for a subtle tang. Serve the chicken noodle soup as a light lunch in the late afternoon. Pair it with just one or two slices of brown buttered toast for a textural crunch between two sips. Cosy and warm, this restorative broth will also ease the discomfort of any post-party headaches or pains.
Vegetable Khichadi With Ghee
The easiest, no-fuss meal to prepare on the first day of the new year is warm khichadi that brings together rice and tur dal in an aromatic mixture. Flavoured with the simple nuances of cumin, turmeric, red chillies and just a bit of coriander powder, load-up this nourishing khichadi with all manner of veggies including carrots, peas, beans, onions, boiled potatoes and brinjals. Serving the khichadi with ghee to accentuate its warming, nourishing properties – and a side of pickle for a bright tang.
Steamed Millet Bowl With Stir-Fried Veggies
Dice veggies like beans, peppers, capsicum, shallots, carrots and spring onions and toss them in a wok. Fry lightly in sesame oil, drizzle with light soy, a bit of vinegar and some gochujang sauce to prepare a spicy stir-fried veggie bowl. Steam millets in a separate vessel and layer the veggies on top of the millets while putting the bowl together. Garnish with fried garlic and some caramelised shallots for added flavour. The millet and veggie bowl can become a fine one-dish repast that is at once healthy, nourishing and warm.
Warm Lemon Rice
Although lemon rice is generally eaten at room temperature, put a slight spin on its serving style by having it warm on the day after the new year’s party. The light tang of lime juice, the nutty crunch of peanuts and the subtle spice of green chillies infuse vibrant flavours into the simple tossed rice. Lemon rice can be had by itself or with a dollop of curd. Garnish it with coriander for an aesthetic look. Utterly light on the stomach and very comforting indeed, it is perhaps the cosiest and quickest meal to prepare in the afternoon, following a big party the night before.
Grilled Fish And Steamed Vegetables
Light, rich in protein and utterly flavourful, a grilled fish fillet seasoned with lemons, garlic and some rosemary has all the makings of an aromatic, comforting meal. Add just a bit of butter to the recipe for a subtly creamy, rich quality. To keep the dish even cleaner and simpler, use olive oil in lieu of butter. Subtle seasoning and the perfect grill make for a delicious, filling yet reset-worthy fillet that can be paired with a light veggie accompaniment comprising boiled string beans or asparagus.
