Holi, the festival of colours, is a time of joy, laughter and indulgence. It’s that time of the year when we forget our diets, dive into plates of gujiyas, and sip on thandai without a second thought. But what if we told you that you can enjoy the festive flavours of Holi without compromising your health? Yes, you read that right! This year, let’s give a healthy twist to traditional Holi foods, making them not just delicious but also nourishing. And while we’re at it, let’s reveal some fascinating facts about Holi delicacies that you probably didn’t know!
The Secret History of Gujiya
Let’s start with the star of Holi—gujiya. This crescent-shaped sweet is a staple in every household during the festival. But did you know that gujiya has its roots in the royal kitchens of medieval India? It was originally created as a luxurious dessert for kings and queens, filled with dry fruits, khoya and aromatic spices. Over time, it became a festive favourite for everyone.
While the traditional gujiya is undeniably delicious, it’s also loaded with sugar and ghee. This year, let’s give it a healthy makeover. Swap refined flour with whole wheat or almond flour, and replace sugar with jaggery or dates. For the filling, use roasted nuts, seeds, and a hint of cardamom for that authentic flavor. You can even bake them instead of deep-frying to cut down on excess oil. Trust us, your taste buds won’t miss a thing!
Thandai: More Than Just a Festive Drink
Thandai is synonymous with Holi, and for good reason. This cooling drink, made with milk, nuts and spices, is the perfect antidote to the playful chaos of the festival. But here’s something you might not know: thandai was originally concocted as an Ayurvedic tonic to beat the heat and boost energy during summers. The blend of almonds, fennel, rose petals, and saffron is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients.
To make your thandai even healthier, use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of regular dairy. You can also skip the sugar and sweeten it naturally with honey or stevia. Add a pinch of black pepper or ginger for an extra kick of flavour and digestion-boosting properties. Serve it chilled, and you’ve got yourself a drink that’s both refreshing and guilt-free.
The Magic of Puran Poli
Puran poli, a sweet flatbread stuffed with lentil and jaggery filling, is a Holi favorite in many Indian households. But did you know that this dish has a cultural significance beyond its taste? In Maharashtra, it’s often prepared during festivals as a symbol of prosperity and abundance.
To give this traditional dish a healthy twist, use whole wheat or multigrain flour for the dough. For the filling, replace jaggery with mashed bananas or date paste for natural sweetness. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor without adding extra calories. Cook it on a non-stick pan with minimal ghee, and you’ve got a lighter version of this festive treat.
Bhang: The Ancient Elixir
No Holi celebration is complete without a mention of bhang, a traditional drink made from cannabis leaves. While it’s known for its intoxicating effects, bhang has a rich history in Ayurveda as a medicinal herb. It was used to treat ailments like anxiety, pain, and even digestive issues. If you’re planning to include bhang in your festivities, moderation is key. Pair it with healthy snacks like roasted makhana or baked namak pare to balance out the experience. And remember, always consume it responsibly!
Healthy Snacks for Holi
Holi is also about munching on savory snacks like papdi, mathri, and namak pare. While these are undeniably tasty, they’re often deep-fried and high in sodium. This year, try making baked versions of these snacks at home. Use whole wheat flour, add a mix of seeds like flax and sesame for crunch, and season them with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique flavour.
Another great option is roasted chana or spiced chickpeas. They’re high in protein, low in calories, and perfect for munching on while playing with colors. You can also make a colorful trail mix with dried fruits, nuts, and a sprinkle of chaat masala for that festive touch.
The Power of Natural Colours
While this blog is about food, we can’t ignore the role of colors in Holi. Did you know that the colors used during Holi were originally made from natural ingredients like turmeric, beetroot, and flowers? These not only added vibrancy to the festival but also had skincare benefits.
This Holi, why not extend the concept of “healthy” to the colours you use? Opt for organic, herbal colours that are safe for your skin and the environment. And while you’re at it, pair them with a plate of healthy snacks for a truly wholesome celebration.
Final Thoughts
Holi is a time to celebrate, connect, and indulge. But that doesn’t mean you have to abandon your health goals. With a few simple swaps and creative tweaks, you can enjoy all your favorite festive foods without the guilt. Plus, knowing the fascinating history and benefits of these dishes adds an extra layer of appreciation for the festival.
So, this Holi, let’s paint the town red (and green, and yellow) with vibrant colours and nourishing foods. After all, a healthy celebration is a happy celebration!
(The author, Dr Ridhima Khamsera, is a clinical dietician.)
