Healthy Amla Recipes for Winter

15Dec

We are blessed with many medicinal plants that can help  us live healthy, active lives, free from disease and disability. All we need to do is appreciate and use the wonderful gifts that nature has provided.

We often see advertisements for cosmetics claiming to be enriched with herbs and fruits like amla (Indian gooseberry). But why rely on cosmetics?

Amla can do wonders with our overall health if consumed regularly in a balanced way. It is the richest source of vitamin C, many antioxidants, and phytochemicals. Let us get a deep insight into the various health benefits of amla- the Indian Gooseberry and also explore its healthy new recipes! 

Benefits of Amla

  1. Boosts Immunity: Amla strengthens the immune system and helps repair damaged DNA. It contains gibberellins and auxins, which aid in wound healing. Rich in antioxidants, amla also helps make your skin flawless and glowing.
  2. Improves Hair Health: Mixing amla juice with aloe vera pulp and coconut oil, then warming it slightly before applying, can darken hair pigmentation and delay greying. Rinsing your hair with this juice after washing works as a natural conditioner and helps prevent scalp infections.
  3. Strengthens the Immune System: Some elements and compounds weaken our immune system and cause oxidative damage to cells. Regular intake of amla can eliminate these harmful effects and repair DNA damage caused by chromium.
  4. Reduces Acidity: Amla has strong anti-acidity properties. Consuming it regularly helps lower the risk of acid reflux and eases acidity issues.
  5. Aids in Weight Loss: Amla is rich in antioxidants and supports digestion. These antioxidants reduce blood vessel inflammation caused by processed foods, helping relieve high blood pressure and swelling in the face and legs. This improves insulin sensitivity, balances blood sugar levels, and leads to healthy, sustainable weight loss. Better metabolism reduces sugar cravings and hidden hunger.
  6. Supports Kidney Function: Studies have shown that amla’s antioxidants protect the kidneys from oxidative damage, supporting their normal function. This benefit is due to the vitamins C and E and minerals like copper, selenium, and zinc found in amla.

Read Also: 15 Signs That You May Have Kidney Disease

Amla Recipes From Fitness With Nidhi’s Kitchen!

1. Grated Khatta Meetha Amla:

Grated khatta meetha amla is perfect to be consumed during the early mornings of winter. Amla is a rich source of vitamin C and helps in immunity-boosting. It keeps your skin glowing. Honey soothes an itchy throat and provides you with natural energy. Black pepper helps in the absorption of various nutrients, and it also cures an itchy throat.

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Servings: 10

 Ingredients:

  • Amla = 9-10 pieces
  • Honey, 4 tbsp
  • Black pepper powder—1 tbsp

How to make?

  1. Grate  amla  and put this grated amla over a grid and then place it in a steamer. Add 1 cup water to the steamer.
  2. Let it be steam-cooked for 10 minutes on low flame.
  3. Open the steamer and check your grated amla. It turns out to be soft enough to be chewed easily.
  4. Take out this steamed amla in a bowl and then add honey and black pepper powder to it.
  5. Mix it well, let the mixture cool and store it in an airtight container.

2. Amla Aloe-vera Juice:

Today, let’s introduce a simple and healthy drink made with easily available ingredients: amla and aloe vera juice. This drink is healthful and delicious, straight from “Fitness with Nidhi’s” kitchen. The best time to consume it is early in the morning.

Incorporate this drink into your daily routine, and you’ll feel the difference. You may even convince your loved ones to swap sugary soft drinks for this nutritious alternative. Let’s explore some of its amazing health benefits and make it a part of our everyday lives!

Recipe:
  • Preparation time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 1 glass
Ingredients:
  • Amla: 2 pieces
  • Aloe vera: 1/2 leaf, medium-sized
  • Water: ½ glass
How to make?
  • Wash and clean aloe vera leaves.
  • Cut out the sides of the leaf with thorns.
  • Cut the leaf in two parts and scoop out the mushy aloe vera gel.
  • Now cut slices of the amla.
  • Take this material in a blender jar and pour half a glass of water into it.
  • Blend it and consume it on an empty stomach.

3. Tadka Amla:

It is another easy way to incorporate amla in your everyday breakfast or lunch. Amla stir-fried along with some spices turns out so rich in taste and texture that you can easily have 3-4 pieces of this tadka amla along with your meal. Consuming it along with any green leafy vegetable increases the amount of iron being absorbed by your body.

  • Cooking time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 10

Ingredients:

  • Amla: 10-12 pieces
  • Salt: 1 tsp
  • Cumin powder: ½ tsp
  • Methi Seeds: 1 tsp
  • Turmeric powder: ½ tsp
  • Red chili powder: ½ tsp
  • Asafoetida: 1/4th tsp
  • Coriander Seeds Powder: ½ tsp
  • Curry Leaves: 5-6 leaves

How To Make?

  1. Wash and dry amla pieces.
  2. In a pan, add oil and methi seeds and let them turn black.
  3. Now add a pinch of hing, amla pieces, salt, and turmeric powder.
  4. Mix it well so that spices get evenly coated all over the amla pieces. Keep the flame at low medium in order to avoid burning.
  5. Now add ½ cup water, cover the pan, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes at low flame.
  6. Check if the amla pieces have turned out to be soft.
  7. Now add cumin powder, coriander powder, red chilli powder, and curry leaves.
  8. Mix it well and then serve.
cta

Conclusion

An essential component of various herbal products, amla is rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals making it skin-protective, blood sugar regulator, heart-protective, cholesterol-lowering, and immune-protective. To harvest these benefits a regular consumption of this fruit is recommended.

Read More:

Nidhi Gupta is an ACE certified personal trainer and nutritionist with over 10 years of experience helping people reach their fitness goals. She is passionate about helping people live healthier lives and loves sharing her knowledge and expertise with others. Get in touch with her to learn more about how she can help you on your fitness journey.