The festival season is here and so is our temptation to savour delicious meals. While traditional Western dishes often take centre stage during this festive season, why not infuse your Christmas table with the rich and diverse flavours of Indian cuisine? You don’t have to resist your temptation to eat delicious food during this time as we’ve got plenty of nutritious delicacies for you. We spoke to our expert Dr Archana Batra, Nutritionist, Physiotherapist, and Certified Diabetes Educator, Gurugram, who listed some wholesome Indian dishes that will add a delightful twist to your Christmas celebrations.
Wholesome Indian Dishes to Celebrate Christmas
Biryani Bliss
You can elevate your festive feast with the aromatic and flavorful biryani. This one-pot wonder combines fragrant basmati rice with a medley of spices, tender meat, or vegetables. Garnish with fried onions and fresh coriander for a dish that’s sure to captivate your taste buds.
Butter Chicken
"Butter chicken, a classic Indian favourite, is a creamy and indulgent curry that pairs perfectly with naan or steamed rice. The tender chicken is immersed in a rich tomato-based sauce, which fits perfectly for a festive gathering", said Dr Batra.
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Palak Paneer
You can add a touch of green to your Christmas spread with palak paneer. This dish combines fresh spinach with cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a creamy and mildly spiced sauce. It’s a nutritious and visually appealing addition to your festive menu.
Vegetable Korma
For a vegetarian option that doesn’t compromise on flavour, consider vegetable korma. “This dish features a variety of colourful vegetables simmered in a rich, spiced coconut or cashew-based curry. Its mild yet flavorful profile makes it a crowd-pleaser”, said Dr Batra.
Masala Chai Fusion
Extend the warmth of the season with a spiced masala chai. You can infuse your favourite tea leaves with aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Serve it hot with a splash of milk for a comforting beverage that complements the festive ambience.
Also Read: Don't Eat Your Food In A Hurry: Expert Lists Benefits Of Eating Slowly
Gulab Jamun Sweetness
In Indian culture, no festive occasion is considered complete without indulging in a delicious sweet dish. You can consider including gulab jamun, soft, syrup-soaked dumplings that melt in your mouth. These delectable sweets add a touch of sweetness to your Christmas dessert spread.
Things You Should Know
The results of the systematic review conducted by the Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI) indicated that the majority of the subjects from the several research that were part of it gained weight over the Christmas season. In most cases, the weight that had been gained throughout the season had not been shed or eliminated. Hence, make sure you do not overeat and indulge in unhealthy foods.
According to New Brain Nutrition, staying active over the Christmas season helps you feel less stressed and maintains regular bowel movements. This helps you keep your digestive problems at bay and helps you enjoy your holiday season.
Bottomline
Dr Batra, “Experience the spirit of togetherness and the joy of the season by incorporating these wholesome Indian dishes into your Christmas festivities. The diverse and vibrant flavours will undoubtedly create a memorable culinary experience for you and your loved ones.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your dietician for a dietary plan tailored to your needs and body type.]