With the arrival of winter, a variety of green leafy vegetables make their way into our kitchens. These are not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. One such winter green is Bathua (Chenopodium album), a nutrient-rich leafy vegetable that helps keep the body warm during cold weather. Bathua can be used to prepare a variety of dishes, adding both flavor and nutrition to your meals. Here are three tasty recipes you can try with Bathua this winter:
1. Bathua Raita
Bathua Raita is a refreshing and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with parathas.
How to make it:
- Wash and boil fresh Bathua leaves.
- Blend the boiled Bathua into a smooth paste.
- Whisk yogurt until smooth, then mix in the Bathua paste.
- Add salt, roasted cumin powder, and chaat masala.
- Mix well and serve chilled with aloo parathas for a hearty meal.
2. Bathua Paratha
Bathua paratha is a delicious way to enjoy this winter green, perfect for breakfast or lunch.
How to make it:
- Select fresh Bathua leaves, wash them thoroughly, and boil them.
- Strain the leaves, remove excess water, and blend them into a paste.
- Mix the Bathua paste with whole wheat flour, green chili, ginger, salt, cream (malai), fennel seeds, and carom seeds. Optionally, add red chili powder for extra spice.
- Knead the dough well and prepare parathas as usual.
- Serve hot with butter or Bathua Raita for a wholesome meal.
3. Bathua Curry (Sabzi)
Bathua curry is a flavorful and nutritious dish that complements roti or rice.
How to make it:
- Heat oil in a pan and add whole red chilies, cumin seeds, and chopped onions. Sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until aromatic.
- Stir in grated or blended tomatoes, salt, turmeric, and sauté the mixture well.
- Add coriander powder and red chili powder, followed by the Bathua paste. Mix and cook until the spices blend with the Bathua.
- Finish with finely chopped green chilies and a garlic tempering for added flavor.
- Serve hot with roti or rice.
Why Include Bathua in Your Diet?
Bathua is a winter superfood, loaded with essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and vitamins. Including it in your diet not only adds variety to your meals but also boosts immunity and keeps you warm during the chilly season.
Enjoy these recipes and make the most of this nutritious winter green!