Immunity-boosting foods from different Indian states: Winter is here, and so is the time to enjoy the nippy weather, warm and cosy mittens, and a range of seasonal foods and drinks. Regrettably, the season also brings along certain health concerns that affect our overall immunity. Hence, nutritionists and health experts always suggest tweaking diets and including immunity-boosting foods to stay nourished and enjoy the season to the fullest. After all, you will not want to spend the whole winter taking frequent tours to the doctor's clinic.
In this article, we will go beyond the regular immunity-boosting foods and highlight some popular options from different states of India. This carefully curated list of immunity-boosting foods from different Indian states will not only make your meal healthy but also add variety to your everyday diet. Read on.
Also Read: 6 Nourishing Immune-Boosting Broccoli Recipes To Try This Winter Season
Immunity-Boosting Foods: 7 Recipes From 7 Indian States You Must Try:
1. Harissa from Kashmir:
Let's begin the list of regional immunity-boosting foods with Kashmir. Along with picturesque nature, the state offers a wide range of foods that are unique, warm, and flavorful. One such dish is harissa - a dish made with the goodness of milk, cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and various other spices, along with soft and juicy meat. These spices come together to fortify the dish with antioxidants and antimicrobial properties that help keep us warm and prevent various seasonal diseases. Click here for the recipe.
2. Sarson ka saag and makki roti from Punjab:
This combination needs no separate introduction. A classic from Punjabi cuisine, sarson ka saag, and makki roti make for immunity-boosting foods that add to the vibe of the season. Both mustard greens (sarson) and corn atta (makki) are packed with essential vitamins and minerals and contribute to stronger immune health. Pair the meal with a piece of jaggery for added goodness. Click here for the recipe.
3. Tehri from Uttar Pradesh:
A staple in the region, tehri is a mishmash of rice, vegetables, and spices that lies somewhere between khichdi and pulao. It is wholesome, fulfilling, and loaded with nutrients to boost immunity. Usually, tehri includes peas, carrots, cauliflower, and potatoes, but you can experiment with the vegetables as per your choice. Try this immunity-boosting food this winter and enjoy. Click here for the recipe.
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4. Undhiyu from Gujarat:
Ask any Gujarati to name an immunity-boosting food from the region, undhiyu will be the first dish on the list. Undhiyu means 'upside down' in Gujarati - the name is drawn from the traditional method used to cook the dish. It is a medley of winter vegetables that goes well with ghee-dripping theplas and puris. Click here for the recipe.
5. Siddu from Himachal Pradesh:
Have you tried siddu from Himachal Pradesh yet? Most popular in the regions of Kullu, Manali, Shimla, Mandi, and Rohru, it is essentially a local steamed bun with different types of filling. Ghee, walnuts, and other such warm and healthy ingredients are used as siddu filling, which is enjoyed hot and fresh with ghee drizzled on top. Click here for the recipe.
6. Nolen gur payesh from West Bengal:
In Bengal, winter is synonymous with nolen gur (fresh jaggery made of date juice). It is not only flavorful and aromatic but can also be used to prepare a wide range of seasonal desserts. One such popular winter recipe is nolen gur payesh. It is a kheer made with gud, rice, milk, and dry fruits that help keep you warm from within. Nolen gurer payesh can also be considered a perfect immunity-boosting food from Bengal, thanks to the nutrients in milk, jaggery, and dry fruits. Click here for the recipe.
7. Rasam from Tamil Nadu:
And finally, we have the desi soup - rasam. Widely popular in Tamil Nadu and adjacent Southern states, rasam is made with pulses and a range of immunity-boosting spices including pepper, cumin, hing et al. You can have this immunity-boosting food as is or pair it with rice and papad for a wholesome meal. And the best part is, you will find different variations of the rasam recipe, adding uniqueness to your meal every time. Click here for some of our favourite rasam recipes.
Also Read: Khichdi To Rasam: 5 Staple Meals That Can Boost Your Immunity Too
Photo Credit: iStock
Now that you have the list of immunity-boosting foods from different Indian states, we suggest adding them to your winter diet for a wholesome meal experience. But remember, excess of everything can be bad for health. So, have these warm and healthy dishes in moderation and enjoy the winter season to the fullest.