Parathas are a beloved staple in indian cuisine, enjoyed for their comforting, flaky texture and versatility. Whether stuffed with vegetables, lentils, or paneer, or simply served plain, parathas are often paired with pickle and curd. While these traditional sides are tasty, they may not always be the healthiest choices, especially if you're trying to balance your meals with more nutritious options. So, what can you pair with paratha to elevate its nutritional value while keeping the meal delicious and satisfying?
Here are 5 healthy alternatives to pickle and curd that can make your paratha meal even more wholesome:
1. Fresh Vegetable raita (without sugar)
While traditional curd is commonly served with paratha, you can switch things up by making a healthier, veggie-packed raita. It not only provides the creamy texture of curd but also adds a burst of nutrients.
· How to make it: Blend low-fat curd with grated cucumber, tomatoes, mint, coriander, and a dash of black salt and cumin powder. You can also add some finely chopped carrots or beets for extra fiber and vitamins.
· Why it’s healthy: The probiotics in curd support gut health, while the vegetables provide fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins like vitamin A and C. This raita will make your paratha meal more filling and nutritionally balanced.
2. avocado Salsa
For a more modern and nutritious twist, you can serve your paratha with avocado salsa. This pairing works wonderfully with whole wheat or multi-grain parathas and offers a unique, creamy texture.
· How to make it: Mash ripe avocado and mix it with finely chopped onions, tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. You can also add a dash of chili for a little kick.
· Why it’s healthy: Avocados are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and keep you full for longer. Plus, the salsa offers a dose of vitamins and minerals like potassium, vitamin C, and folate.
3. Tomato and onion Chutney
Instead of pickle, you can enjoy a tangy tomato-onion chutney. It provides that burst of flavor with far less oil and sugar than traditional pickles, making it a much healthier alternative.
· How to make it: Sauté finely chopped tomatoes, onions, garlic, and ginger in a little olive oil. Add spices like cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds. Let it cook down until it becomes a thick, chutney-like consistency. Add a squeeze of lemon or tamarind paste for tanginess.
· Why it’s healthy: This chutney is high in vitamin C from tomatoes and onions and offers a variety of antioxidants. It’s also much lower in sodium compared to traditional pickles, which is beneficial for heart health.
4. Mixed Bean Salad
For an extra protein-packed option, a mixed bean salad can be the perfect side to go with your paratha. Not only does it complement the meal's flavors, but it also adds a healthy dose of fiber and plant-based protein.
· How to make it: Combine boiled beans (like kidney beans, chickpeas, or black beans) with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and coriander. Toss with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add some chopped avocado for healthy fats.
· Why it’s healthy: beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber, which can help keep you full longer and aid in digestion. The salad is also rich in vitamins and minerals, promoting overall health.
5. Mint-Coriander Chutney
Mint and coriander chutney is a fresh, flavorful alternative to pickle and works wonders with parathas. It's refreshing, tangy, and packed with flavor while being incredibly easy to make.
· How to make it: Blend fresh mint, coriander, green chilies, ginger, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt together until smooth. Add a little water if needed to adjust the consistency.
· Why it’s healthy: Mint and coriander are rich in antioxidants, and they aid in digestion and detoxification. This chutney also helps in boosting immunity and is low in calories, making it an ideal accompaniment to a healthy meal.
Bonus: Pair with a Protein-Rich Dish
If you’re aiming for a more balanced meal, consider pairing your paratha with a protein-rich dish such as dal (lentils), tofu curry, or a vegetable stir-fry with chickpeas. These dishes complement the carbohydrate-rich paratha and ensure that you get a good balance of macronutrients — protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
Conclusion
While parathas are a delicious and versatile food, pairing them with nutritious sides is key to turning them into a wholesome, balanced meal. By opting for alternatives like fresh vegetable raita, avocado salsa, tomato-onion chutney, mixed bean salad, or mint-coriander chutney, you not only enhance the flavors but also increase the nutritional value of the meal. These sides provide essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making your paratha meal healthier, filling, and more satisfying. So next time you enjoy a paratha, try one of these healthy alternatives and elevate your meal to a whole new level!
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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