Black chickpeas or what we know as kala chana, is one of the quintessential ingredients widely used in Indian food. Be it the main course, snack or just to kill the boredom, kala chana is good for all. Just like the South Indian breakfast menu is incomplete without puttu, North Indian food is incomplete with kala chana curry. Isn't it?
In a conversation with Shalini Arvind, Chief Dietitian at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, “Black chana is a very tasty and nutritious way to increase the protein in your diet. In fact, it helps to balance the glycemic index for a diabetic patient, so that there’s no quick increase in sugar levels". Wanna know about the benefits of kala chana in detail? Have a look below.
Aids Weight Loss
We always try to snack something healthy, and you know what, kala chana can actually help in losing weight. They have a high fibre content and low in fats. It also keeps hunger pangs at bay and keeps you full for a long time.
Manages Blood Sugar Level
Kala chana is ideal for diabetic patients. It increases protein levels and balances the blood sugar level. They have soluble fibres that can work like magic. Their low glycemic index can balance out blood sugar levels.
Can Cure Anemia
Black chickpeas have a high content of iron and thus, it can cure many health issues including anemia. It is also advisable for pregnant women and lactating mothers to have iron for the healthy growth of their child.
Promotes Good Digestion
Again because of their high fibre content, black chickpeas can smoothen the digestive process in the body. It could be hard to treat digestive but kala chana can give beneficial results when it comes to this problem. It is beneficial for reducing constipation and help the bowels to empty easily.
Beneficial For Skin
Black chickpeas are packed with so many vitamins, nutrients and dietary fibre which can turn out to be extremely beneficial for the skin. It has antioxidants and other polyphenols that can clear the skin and make it glow.
Since we have talked about so many health benefits of kala chana, let us give you a quick recipe of healthy kala chana salad. Are you ready??
Kala Chana Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup soaked and boiled kala chana
- 1/2 cucumber
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 tomato (chopped)
- 1 green chili (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp chaat masala
- Lemon juice
- Handful of coriander leaves
- Salt as per taste
Method
- Take a bowl and add all the ingredients.
- Mix everything properly and serve.
Enjoy!
