Diwali, the festival of lights, not only illuminates our homes but also brightens our spirits with hope and joy. As we immerse ourselves in the festivities, the delightful array of sweets becomes an integral part of the celebration. Just like a birthday without a cake feels incomplete, Diwali without sweets is unimaginable. From the luscious gulab jamuns to the crispy jalebis and the nutty goodness of kaju katli, these treats add an extra layer of sweetness to our joyous moments. Let’s find out from eminent Dietitian, Avni Kaul, the guilt-free sweets that allow you to relish the festive season without compromising on your well-being.
What are those delicious and healthy sweets that you can eat moderately?
Dietitian and Nutritionist Avni Kaul explains those sweets in the details given below:
- Nolen Gur Sandesh
Nolen Gur Sandesh, a seasonal Bengali sweet, stands out for its health benefits. Crafted from fresh Date Palm Jaggery and chenna (milk fat), it is rich in iron, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. This winter delicacy supports haemoglobin and bone health. The use of Palm Jaggery, a less processed sweetener with a lower glycemic index, makes it a healthier option for festive indulgence. Enjoy this delightful treat in moderation for a tastier and wholesome Diwali celebration.
- Makhana Kheer
For a healthier Diwali kheer, substitute rice with fox nuts lotus seeds or makhana. Dry roast makhana instead of using ghee to reduce fat. Choose skimmed milk over full-fat, and use sugar-free cubes for sweetness. Opt for organic jaggery for an even healthier option. Makhana is low in calories, and rich in nutrients, protein, fibre, and minerals. Replace refined sugar with honey or stevia to cut unnecessary calories. Makhana has antioxidant properties that is great for your skin and suits gluten-free, dairy-free diets with alternatives like almond or coconut milk. Enjoy guilt-free festive sweetness with mindful preparation and the right ingredients.
- Sweet Potato Halwa
Celebrate Diwali with a guilt-free treat—Sweet Potato Halwa. This healthier version, cooked with a touch of ghee and cardamom, is an ideal substitute for the usual high-calorie ingredients. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes boast a lower glycemic index for stable blood sugar levels. Add minimal ghee and sweeten with natural options like jaggery or dates for an extra health boost. Enjoy this delicious, nutritious Diwali sweet that supports digestion and overall well-being. Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene for eye health, B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, calcium, and selenium. They aid digestion and help manage Type 2 Diabetes.
- Gajak
Gajak, a Diwali delight comprising sesame seeds and jaggery, offers multiple health benefits. Sesame seeds are packed with healthy fats, protein, and vital minerals such as calcium and iron. They are rich in antioxidants, promoting heart health. Jaggery, a natural sweetener from concentrated sugarcane juice, is a nutrient powerhouse with vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium. Recognized for digestive aid and liver detoxification, the combination creates a delectable treat that is both satisfying and nutritious. Remember, enjoy in moderation for guilt-free indulgence.
- Baked Gujiya
Gujiya, a deep-fried delicacy (a sweet deep-fried dumpling ), takes a healthy turn with this baked version. Using whole wheat flour instead of refined flour adds fibre, making it a better choice for digestion. The filling of nuts, coconut, and jaggery provides essential nutrients and natural sweetness without relying on processed sugars. Baking instead of deep-frying reduces the oil content, offering a crispy texture without the excess calories. So, this guilt-free pleasure not only satisfies your taste buds during Diwali but also caters to a more health-conscious celebration.
- Oats and Almond Ladoo
Diwali without laddoos? Absolutely not! Kickstart your guilt-free Diwali celebrations with these nutritious oats and almond laddoos. Oats provide a fibre boost, while almonds offer a dose of healthy fats. Sweetened with natural sweeteners like dates or honey, these laddoos are not only delicious but also packed with energy, making them a perfect guilt-free alternative.
This Diwali, embrace guilt-free indulgence with a delightful array of healthier sweets. From Nolen Gur Sandesh to Baked Gujiya, these treats prioritize well-being without compromising on flavour. Opting for nutrient-rich ingredients like makhana, sweet potatoes, sesame seeds, oats, and almonds, these recipes promise a festive celebration that nourishes both body and soul. Enjoy in moderation, savour the flavours, and cherish a Diwali that celebrates health and happiness.
