Sattu: The Superfood For Weight Loss Diet - 5 Delicious Recipes To Try

Sattu is a protein-rich flour native to India. Believed to have originated in Bihar, sattu is now gaining immense popularity in other parts of the country as well, as people are discovering its numerous health benefits. This flour is typically made from powdered chana and is an excellent source of dietary fibre and protein. It's just the perfect ingredient to amp up your protein intake without breaking the bank. If you're someone who is on a weight loss journey, then sattu is your holy grail. Packed with essential nutrients, this budget-friendly protein option will keep you energised for a longer period. In this article, we have collated a list of interesting ways to add sattu to your weight loss diet.

Also read: Diabetes Diet: Interesting Ways To Include Sattu Flour In Your Diet To Manage Blood Sugar Level

How Is Sattu Made?

Sattu flour is commonly prepared by roasting and milling Bengal gram or chana dal. To enhance its taste, various pulses and cereals like chickpeas are frequently included.

Are Sattu And Besan Same? How Is Sattu Different From Besan?

Trying to differentiate between sattu and besan can be confusing as both flours are made from Bengal gram. However, here are some key factors that set them apart:

1. Preparation

Sattu is produced by coarsely grinding roasted Bengal gram, while besan is made by finely grinding Bengal gram. Sattu appears darker and has a non-bitter taste, while besan has a pale yellow colour and a bitter flavour.

2. Shelf Life

Sattu's shelf life is longer than six months as it is roasted, whereas besan's shelf life is up to six months when stored in dry and airtight containers. 

3. Region

Sattu is commonly used in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Haryana, while besan is popular all over India.

4. Dishes/Usage

Sattu is typically used in dishes such as sattu chokha, sattu laddoo, sattu paratha, sattu drinks, and sattu halwa, while besan is used in dishes like dhokla, pakoda, kadhi and besan laddoo.

Also read: Got Leftover Veggies? Turn Them Into Yummy Sattu Balls In 30 Minutes

Does sattu help ease digestion?

Since sattu is a great source of insoluble fibre, it is extremely beneficial for our gut. It cleans out our colon and prevents digestion problems such as acidity, bloating and constipation. It may also alleviate burning sensations in the stomach.

Does sattu cool the body?

Sattu is also known for its excellent cooling properties. It helps restore your energy levels as it is power-packed with essential nutrients and fibre. You can make yourself a glass of sattu sharbat or shake it to beat the scorching summer heat.

Can sattu help in weight loss?

Sattu is probably one of the best options for people who are trying to lose weight. Several studies suggest that having sattu on an empty stomach helps increase metabolism, thus promoting healthy weight loss.

Here're 5 Sattu Recipes To Add To Your Weight Loss Diet:

1. Sattu Ka Sharbat (Our Recommendation)

Sattu ka sharbat is a popular summer cooler drink from Bihar. Made with chana sattu flour, chilled water, lemon juice, mint leaves, black salt, and sugar or jaggery, this yummy beverage is high in fibre and will keep you full for a longer period. Click here for the recipe for Sattu Ka Sharbat.

2. Sattu Paratha

Parathas are one of the most loved breakfast options. However, if you're someone who's on a weight loss diet, then this sattu ka paratha is a must-try! This nutritious paratha is made with a dough of sattu flour, mixed with an array of spices. Pair it with your favourite achaar and enjoy! Click here for the recipe for Sattu Paratha.

3. Sattu Cheela

To make this cheela, all you need is besan, sattu flour, onions, tomatoes, buttermilk, salt and pepper. Since sattu is a good source of dietary fibre, this cheela makes for a healthy breakfast option. It tastes best when paired with some pudina chutney. Click here for the recipe for Sattu Cheela.

4. Sattu Cooler

This sattu cooler is the perfect drink for weight loss. In this recipe, the nutritional properties of sattu are enhanced with the freshness of lemon juice. It is super hydrating and is known for its excellent cooling properties. You can replace sugar with honey, jaggery or any other natural sweetener. Click here for the recipe for Sattu Cooler.

5. Sattu Shake

Shakes are an incredibly popular option for people trying to lose weight. This sattu shake is one of the easiest and healthiest ways to fix your protein intake during a weight loss diet. You can drink it daily, or after workouts to energise yourself. Click here for the recipe for Sattu Shake. 

Try out these recipes and let us know how you all liked them in the comments section below.