Lord Ganesha, recognized as the Lord of Beginnings, the Remover of Obstacles, and the Patron of Arts and Sciences, is one of the most widely worshipped deities in Hinduism. His birthday, Ganesha Chaturthi, is just around the corner, and it is a grand festival celebrated by Hindus in India and all over the world. This festival lasts for as long as ten days, during which sweets are whipped up in every home and shared as prasad among loved ones. While these traditional sweets are an integral part of the festive spirit and rituals, many of them are quite rich and heavy, which can lead to health issues for some people. Whether you are on a weight loss diet or have a pre-existing condition like diabetes, indulging in sweets during Ganesh Chaturthi can pose a problem.
Though these delicacies are delicious, it is important to keep a watchful eye on them for the sake of your health. So this year, let’s seek Bappa’s blessings by offering healthier sweets. Here, we present some healthy and delicious dishes that are high in protein and low in cholesterol for you to savour with your loved ones. Check them out.
1. Ragi Modaks
Modak, one of Bappa's favourite sweets, traditionally comes in a fluted dumpling shape, made with a rice flour shell filled with coconut, jaggery, and dry fruits. However, you can make this dish healthier by substituting rice with ragi, a more protein-packed grain. Use ragi flour for the shell, load the stuffing with coconut and dry fruits, and steam the Ragi Modak until done.
2. Sheera made with jowar and banana
Ganesh Puja is incomplete without Sheera. Typically, sheera is prepared using semolina and a generous amount of sugar. Giving this traditional dish a Jowar twist is a natural and delicious choice. Sweeten the sheera with banana paste instead of sugar.
3. Coconut Dry Fruit Ladoo
This is another delightful treat during Ganesh Chaturthi. These ladoos are ready by using sugar or jaggery. We can give a healthy upgrade by using dates paste instead of sugar or jaggery. Dry roasting the coconut with chopped nuts and seeds can enhance the flavour of these laddoos.
We hope this list includes something you'd like to try your hand at. Enjoy this festive season with your loved ones and prepare tasty, nutritious meals for a healthier way of living. Healthy Roots wishes you and your family a happy Ganesh Chaturthi!