The party season may be over but we are inching towards the harvest festivals like Makar Sankranti, Lohri and Pongal across the country. These festivals are a celebration of seasonal food products and the way different cultures incorporate them into their diet. In this context, nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar reminded us of a vital winter food delicacy — pickles. In an Instagram post, she wrote that the “hardworking farming folk of North India harvested their winter veggies and turned them into winter pickles to enhance their life span and nutrient value”. She went on to add, “Winter pickles are the under-rated, under-valued, under-utilised delicacies.”
However, these delicacies are great for fixing problems of the skin and gut and can also heal joint aches. They contain heaps of hand-pounded mustard, which act as a traditional therapy against respiratory disorders during winter.
(Also Read: Try This Tomato Pickle (Achaar) Recipe For A Spicy, Tangy Side Dish For Your Indian Meals)
Rujuta Diwekar added in her post, “The sun cooking and fermenting of the shalgam, gajar and phul gobi is what the modern world of nutrition appreciates (and may later even appropriate) as pre, pro and post biotics.”
Winter pickles aren't a mere side dish for meals. Instead, they are an important part of the winter diet. Rujuta Diwekar wrote, “This foodiceutical is a must-have on your plate.” The best part about pickles is that these delicacies can be enjoyed with Indian bread like chapatis and parathas, rice and khichdi.
Here's Rujuta Diwekar's post:
Recently, the nutritionist also shared information about ber or Indian jujube. This winter fruit boosts immunity. Rujuta Diwekar wrote about the benefits of ber, “It's rich in Vit C (richer than oranges), lethal for dandruff and the secret behind glowing skin. Also are great for kids who fall sick often." Click here to read more about the benefits of ber.
Rujuta Diwekar had once also posted a chart about the winter menu. She chalked out the most nutritious ways to include seasonal vegetables and food products. She wrote, “Here is a suggested guide to planning your meals during this winter. Feel free to adjust and modify timings and food specialties as per your convenience and region." Read about it here.
Satiate your food cravings for winter with these nutritious seasonal delicacies.