Why have ‘Khatti Gajar’ this winter?

Method

*Cut the carrots into medium-long sticks and remove the white part too.
*In a bowl, take hing (asafoetida) add some water, and keep it aside.
*Heat mustard oil in a pan, add methi dana, jeera, chopped carrots, slit green chilli, asafoetida water, salt, red chilli powder, and turmeric.
*Mix it well and cover it with a lid. After some time, check with a knife, if the carrots are soft then add tamarind water, coriander powder, garam masala, and black salt.
*Cover it with a lid and check after 4-5 minutes. Khatti Gajar is ready to be served.

Add green chillies to the dish (Source: Pixabay)

Why have Khatti Gajar?

Dr Nirupama Rao, nutritionist, Rejua Energy Centre, Mumbai said that Khatti Gajar, or pickled carrots, are popular in winter due to the abundance of fresh carrots during the season. “The pickling process not only preserves the carrots but also adds a tangy flavour, making it a delightful and nutritious winter snack.”

Carrots themselves are rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, essential for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. The pickling process enhances the nutritional profile by introducing probiotics—beneficial bacteria crucial for gut health.

Additionally, the pickled dish is believed to have health benefits, providing a good source of vitamins and probiotics, said Dr Rao.

The fermentation of khatti gajar promotes the growth of probiotics like Lactobacillus, known for their positive impact on digestive health. “These bacteria contribute to a balanced gut microbiome, aiding in nutrient absorption and supporting the immune system. Additionally, the fermentation process may increase the bioavailability of certain nutrients, enhancing their absorption in the digestive tract,” said Shruti K Bhardwaj, chief dietician, Zydus Hospitals, Ahmedabad.

According to Bhardwaj, Khatti Gajar’s probiotic content also plays a role in promoting a healthy weight and metabolism. “Probiotics have been associated with improved metabolic functions, potentially aiding in weight management. Furthermore, the presence of antioxidants in carrots, coupled with the probiotics, may have anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to overall well-being,” said Bhardwaj.

What to keep in mind?

However, it’s essential to consume pickled foods in moderation due to their sodium content, said Bhardwaj.

 

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