Hello, dear readers! I’m thrilled to share one of my favorite immunity boosting recipes in winter with you today, and it’s not just delicious; it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients. In this article, I will take you through my personal Panjiri recipe to boost immunity in child as well as adults. It is a traditional Indian winter delicacy and explains why it’s a fantastic choice for strengthening the immune system.
The Magic of Panjiri
Panjiri is a nutritious and hearty sweet treat that has been a part of Indian households for generations. It’s made with whole wheat flour, ghee (clarified butter), and an array of nuts and spices. This combination of ingredients is not only mouthwatering but also incredibly beneficial, especially during the winter months when immunity needs an extra boost.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather our ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or semolina if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup ghee
- 1/2 cup jaggery (or sugar if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped cashews
- 1/4 cup pistachios
- 1/4 cup dry dates
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1 tablespoon melon seeds (magaz)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel seeds
- A pinch of black pepper (optional)
- A pinch of edible gum (gond, for added strength)
- A pinch of grated dried coconut (optional)
The Immunity-Boosting Benefits of Panjiri
Now, let’s discuss why Panjiri is such an excellent choice, especially for kids, to bolster their immune systems.
Whole Wheat Flour: Rich in fiber, whole wheat is a complex carbohydrate that provides a slow release of energy. It helps maintain steady blood sugar levels and supports overall health.
Ghee: Ghee contains healthy fats and antioxidants, which help in better absorption of nutrients. It’s an excellent source of energy, especially during the cold winter months.
Nuts: Almonds and cashews are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. They contribute to strong bones, healthy skin, and improved brain function. They also provide a good dose of antioxidants, which can help fight off illnesses.
Jaggery: A healthier alternative to refined sugar, jaggery is a rich source of iron and other minerals. It aids in digestion and provides a natural source of sweetness.
Spices: Cardamom, fennel seeds, and black pepper not only enhance the flavor but also possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making them great for overall well-being.
Edible Gum: Edible gum, or gond, is known for its strengthening properties. It can be especially beneficial for children’s growing bodies.
Melon Seeds and Raisins: Melon seeds are a great source of essential fatty acids and antioxidants, while raisins provide vitamins and minerals that support a healthy immune system.
Healthy Panjiri Recipe
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create a batch of nourishing Panjiri:
Step 1: Roast the Wheat Flour
- Heat a heavy-bottomed pan on low to medium heat.
- Add the whole wheat flour and dry roast it until it turns golden brown. This step is crucial as it removes the raw taste of the flour.
Step 2: Roast the Nuts
- In the same pan, roast the chopped almonds, sliced dates, pistachios and cashews in a teaspoon of ghee until they turn golden. Set them aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Gond
In a small pan, heat a teaspoon of ghee and fry the edible gum until it puffs up. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- In the same pan, add the remaining ghee and melt it.
- Add the roasted wheat flour and cook it for 5-7 minutes until it emits a rich, nutty aroma.
Step 5: Add Sweeteners and Spices
- Stir in the jaggery or sugar, ground cardamom, ground fennel seeds, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Mix well and let it cook for a few more minutes.
Step 6: Incorporate Nuts and Dry Fruits
- Add the roasted almonds, cashews, pistachios, edible gum, raisins, and melon seeds.
- Gently mix everything together until it forms a crumbly and aromatic mixture.
Step 7: Let It Cool
- Remove the Panjiri from heat and let it cool completely.
- Once it cools, store it in an airtight container.
Also, check out our Tasty and Healthy Oats Recipes for Children!
Serving Suggestions
For adults, you can enjoy Panjiri as a sweet treat or as a part of your daily diet during the winter season. Just take a small portion with your morning or evening tea to experience its wholesome goodness.
For kids, you can give them one or two tablespoons of Panjiri daily before they have their milk. This small serving would be sufficient to provide them with the essential nutrients they need to boost their immunity and keep them strong and healthy during the winter months.
Incorporating Panjiri into your family’s diet during the winter season can be a delightful way to boost their immunity. This traditional Indian delicacy, with its rich array of ingredients, provides not only warmth but also essential nutrients that contribute to overall well-being.
As a mother, I can personally vouch for the effectiveness of this recipe in strengthening my children’s immune systems. With its wonderful combination of whole wheat, nuts, spices, and other ingredients, Panjiri is a wholesome and delicious way to ensure your family’s well-being during the winter months.
So why not give this immunity-boosting Panjiri recipe a try? Your taste buds and your health will thank you!