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Pav Bhaji, one of the favorite street foods in India, is a delicious blend of spicy vegetable curry served with soft buttery bread called pav. Its irresistible taste and buttery aroma make it a favorite among people of all ages. Originating in Gujarat and Maharashtra, this dish has won the hearts of millions.
However, this delicious plate of Pav Bhaji often makes people feel guilty because of its high calorie and fat content. Despite being a vegetarian delight, the amounts of butter and spices added to Pav Bhaji can often make it unhealthy. But worry not, because we have some easy tips you can use to make your homemade Pav Bhaji healthier.
1. Choose the Right Vegetables
At the core of the Pav Bhaji recipe are vegetables, especially potatoes. Instead of relying on potatoes that can make the dish heavier and starchier, it is better to use vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, pepper, peas and carrots. These vegetables not only add color and taste but also increase the nutritional value of Pav Bhaji. In addition, they contain important vitamins, minerals and fiber.
2. Use Less Butter and Oil
The traditional Pav Bhaji recipe is notorious for its heavy use of butter and oil. While these ingredients add to the rich flavor of the dish, they can also add to the calorie count quickly. To make your Pav Bhaji healthier, reduce the amount of butter and oil. Choose healthier cooking oils, such as olive or canola oils, and use them sparingly. You can also try using non-stick cookware to reduce the need for excess oil.
3. Whole Wheat Bread or Multigrain Bread
Don't forget the bread or pav that comes with the Pav Bhaji. Replace the usual white bread or refined flour pav with whole grain or millet options which are now easily available. These alternative breads contain higher fiber and nutrients, making it a healthier choice. You can also toast the pav without any butter or oil for a lighter option. These small changes can significantly reduce the total calories in your meal.
4. Homemade Spice Mixes
Many store-bought Pav Bhaji Masalas are loaded with salt and artificial additives. Instead of using them, make your own spice mix at home. By incorporating this hack into your pav bhaji making process, you can save yourself from the adulterated and impure spices which are harmful for your health as well as digestion because you will have control over the amount of ingredients you are using to make your spice mix.
5. Use A Low-Sodium Ingredients
Sodium can make its way into your Pav Bhaji from a variety of sources, including salt and pre-packaged spice mixes, and this is apart from the natural sodium found in vegetables.High sodium intake has been linked to health problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease. To reduce sodium when making bhaji, use less salt and look for fresh vegetables and homemade spices that are low in sodium or have no added salt.
6. Choose Digestive and Lean Proteins
Pav Bhaji might be primarily a vegetarian dish, but yet you can add some lean and protein-rich sources such as paneer, tofu or cooked chickpeas. These protein choices not only make your meals more healthy and filling, but also exceed their nutritional and health value. Paneer in particular is a versatile ingredient that absorbs the flavor of bhaji.
7. Use Yoghurt
Avoid adding cream or extra butter to Pav Bhaji for a creamy texture and use plain old yoghurt or dahi instead. Yoghurt is a healthier alternative to cream that provides a rich, creamy texture without the extra calories. You can mix it into the bhaji before serving for a nice creamy taste.
8. Portion Control
Sometimes it's not just what you eat, but how much you eat. Keep an eye on the portion control while savouring Pav Bhaji. Use a smaller plate and resist the temptation to go back for second helpings. By minimizing the portion sizes, you can relish the ultimate flavors and taste of Pav Bhaji without overindulging.
9. Serve with Salad
Balancing pav bhaji with any type of fresh salad is the best and healthiest way to add more vegetables to your meal. A simple salad of cucumber, tomato and lettuce can provide a nice contrast to the spicy bhaji while increasing the overall nutritional value of the meal.
10. Mindful Eating
Finally, practice mindful eating while enjoying Pav Bhaji. Take your time to enjoy each bite and enjoy the taste. Eating slowly and mindfully can help you recognize when you're full and prevent overeating.
Pav Bhaji no longer has to feel guilty. By making a few simple, smart choices, you can transform this favorite street snack into a healthier meal that's just as delicious. From choosing the right vegetables to using less butter and oil, these tips will allow you to enjoy Pav Bhaji without compromising your health. So go ahead and treat yourself to a guilt-free plate of Pav Bhaji today.
