World Idli Day: Reasons why it deserves a place in your healthy diet
World Idli Day is celebrated on March 30 every year. From weight loss to good digestion, it is one dish that offers several health benefits. Know how eating idli can be good for you.
Health benefits of idli: Don't you love this fluffy South Indian dish? This savoury rice cake is healthy, nutritious and yummy that fills your mouth with flavours. To celebrate this delicious food, World Idli Day is celebrated every year on March 30. It began in 2015 when the famous only-idli maker in Chennai made more than 1300 varieties of idlis. Prepared in several ways, Idli also offers several health benefits. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock
Good for weight loss: If you are someone trying to lose weight, then Idli must be the food that might help in your journey. It is steamed so there is no oil or butter in this delicious Indian snack and it is low in calories, making it the perfect food for people trying to lose weight. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock
Prevents carbohydrate accumulation: A study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology found that eating steamed idlis can aid with carb management and prevents its accumulation. Since it is low in carbs, and high in protein and fibre, it is the perfect food you need that will help you provide energy. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock
Keeps you full: If you are someone trying to lose weight, Idli could be a good option as it can make you feel satiated. Thanks to the presence of fibre and protein in Idli, it canhelp you make full for longer. Thus, it prevents overeating which in turn helps you lose weight and live a healthy life. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock
Encourages gut health: Eating fermented foods increases the amount of minerals absorbed by the body. Since minerals and vitamins are more readily absorbed, microorganisms effectively break down complex proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, making it possible for nutrients to be easily assimilated and promoting healthy gut flora. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock
How to make Idli: Soak urad dal and fenugreek seeds in a bowl overnight. Also, combine par-boiled rice deep in water and keep it overnight. Wash and drain urad dal and fenugreek and blend to make a smooth paste. You should also wash and drain the rice and blend the mixer. Add everything in a bowl and add salt and mix well. Keep the mixture aside for 12 hours in a warm place. Now, pour spoonfuls of the mixture into Idli moulds and let it steam until cooked well. Now, cool it down and serve it with sambhar, chutney and more. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock