How useful is it to experiment traditional spices with exotic food ingredients?

One reason could be attributed to the rise in celiac conditions leading to gluten sensitivity which has made people look out for other options. “Many people are switching to a gluten-free diet these days. Gluten is basically a protein present in certain cereals such as wheat, rye, and barley. Many individuals have started ditching wheat now and instead having rotis made with millet flour such as ragi, bajra, jowar, and even avocado,” said clinical dietitian Garima Goyal.

According to her, mixing traditional spices like turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, red chilli powder, and more gives a similar Indian flavour to the preparation which makes the satiety value almost the same or even more in the case of certain flours.

“The ingredients used such as millet flour or avocado or multigrain flour or bran with wheat flour can give you the same or rather more satiety because of its high fibre content,” Goyal mentioned.

“While the nutritional impact of these mixtures is not researched clinically, independently they do have some compliment each other,” said Dr Ushakiran Sisodia, registered dietician and clinical nutritionist, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai.

Dr Sisodia said that while quinoa, native to South America, is a complete protein source with all nine essential amino acids, combining it with turmeric or cumin not only enhances flavour but its anti-inflammatory properties. “Similarly, avocado, rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, when paired with spices like black pepper, can enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, described Dr Sisodia.

Tofu, originally from East Asia, is a great source of protein, particularly for vegetarians and vegans. “Marinating tofu in spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, and grilling it not only adds a smoky flavour but also enhances its nutritional profile. A number of people soak chia seeds overnight with milk or yogurt and adding Indian spices like cardamom and cinnamon to creates a delicious and healthful breakfast,” elucidated Dr Sisodia.

The rise in availability of different ingredients and the easy accessibility also lends space to such experimentation. As long as it is edible and healthy allowing each ingredient to work its magic, there is no harm in trying out newer recipes.

Take for instance the recipe of masala avocado phulka from food influencer Nidhi Parmar that we came across on Instagram.

“Introducing Masala Avocado Phulkas – a delightful twist on traditional Indian flatbreads! The Masala Avocado Phulkas or Roti or Rotli recipe is a delightful twist on traditional Indian flatbreads. It incorporates the creamy richness of avocados into the dough, resulting in a softer and more nutritious variation of the classic phulka or chapati. Perfect for a wholesome meal!” she wrote.

Do you also experiment? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

According to her, Avocado Paratha or Avocado Roti is prepared by kneading whole wheat flour and avocado pulp with a few spices. “It comes out very soft, requires less oil, and is healthy. It is loaded with mono-saturated fatty acids, suitable for a healthy heart. Besides, avocados are rich in potassium, fibre, antioxidants, and vitamins like B, K, C, and E,” shared Parmar alongside the recipe.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 medium avocado
1/2 tsp red chili powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp cumin-coriander powder
A pinch of garam masala (optional)
Salt to taste
1 tsp Oil
Water as required

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Nidhi Parmar (@nidhicooksofficial)

Method

*Start by preparing the avocado. Cut it in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Mash the avocado thoroughly with a fork until it’s smooth.
*Add the whole wheat flour, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin-coriander powder, garam masala (if using), and salt to the mashed avocado.
*Mix the ingredients well until they are combined. The avocado will provide moisture, but if the dough feels too dry, you can add a little water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth and pliable dough.
*Knead the dough for a few minutes to make it soft and smooth. You can apply a little oil to your hands to prevent sticking.
*Divide the dough into small, equal-sized portions and roll them into balls.
*Take one dough ball, flatten it slightly, and roll it out into a round shape, like a chapati or phulka. Roll it evenly to your desired thickness, keeping in mind that phulkas are typically thinner than chapatis.
*Place the rolled phulka on the hot griddle. When you start to see small bubbles forming on the surface, flip it over using a spatula.

*Cook the other side until it puffs up and gets light brown spots. You can press down gently with a spatula to help it puff up evenly.
*Apply ghee on top.
*Serve your Masala Avocado Phulkas hot with your choice of side dishes, such as curries, chutneys, or pickles.

📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don’t miss out on the latest updates!