Decoding India’s Love For Peanut And Jaggery

My favourite season is here. I love winter because not only do I get a chance to get cozy in my blanket, but I get to munch on warm foods and winter snacks. Isn’t it? Even though it feels like everything is moving a little slower in Winter, the winter breeze blows through the trees and one can feel the magic in the air. 

What is that one snack combination without which this season is incomplete? It is none other than peanut and jaggery. This combination not just rules our hearts for its amazing taste but also has ample health benefits. It is packed with micro-minerals, vitamins, healthy fats, proteins, and polyphenols. Both peanuts and jaggery individually have so many properties and when consumed together, they are considered a boon for the body, especially in Winter. 

Talking about peanuts, peanuts are considered equally healthy as other nuts like almonds and cashews. “Many people believe that peanuts are not as nutritionally valuable as real nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews. But in reality, peanuts have many of the same health benefits as more expensive nuts and they should not be overlooked as nutritious food. Peanuts are rich in various micro and macronutrients that our body requires. In addition, peanuts are very affordable,” says dietitian Garima Goyal. Whereas jaggery which is an unrefined natural sweetener is considered to be a superfood because it has so many vitamins and minerals. 

Peanuts have a high content of vitamins, proteins, and minerals like copper, niacin, folate, phosphorus, magnesium, biotin, and many others that are very essential for the body. While on the other side, antioxidants in jaggery act as a natural body cleanser and are good for controlling anemia due to their iron properties, as stated by a report in TOI. It is hands down a wholesome and complete meal. 

What comes to your mind when you think of a winter snack made of peanuts and jaggery? Yes, it is none other than chikki. Just for you, here is the recipe of the most delicious as well as healthy chikki that you can make at home. Have a look and enjoy!!