Kids often have a tendency to turn their noses to foods that are best for them. Moms, hence, have to get innovative to ensure that right and nutritious food finds it’s in way in their tummy. They experiment with novel ingredients, introduce new flavours and get creative with presentations. Naturally dominating colours like red of beetroot, green of spinach or yellow of mango further make ‘hiding’ easy and convenient.
Today we’re talking about healthy and indulgent food items that raise the nutritive value of everyday food. Interestingly, moderation comes into play for few of them.
Nigella seeds/Kalonji
These cute little black pearly seeds are another commonly found ingredient in our kitchen. Although nigella seeds have traditionally been used as a spice they have many medicinal properties as well. They’re loaded with antioxidants that may help protect against diseases. Nigella seeds can protect your liver and help regulate blood sugar levels. They also have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and are good for your skin and hair.
Nigella seeds can be added whole or powdered to gravies. Naans and breads are almost always topped with kalonji seeds for flavour. Sprinkle them over your smoothies or yoghurt (raw or roasted) or add them to pickles.
Nutmeg/Jaiphal
Nutmeg is a warm spice and has a distinct nutty flavour. Though it owes its popularity to its wonderfully subtle aroma nutmeg has some impressive health benefits too. It can prevent cell damage due to the high content of antioxidants, phenolic compounds and plant pigments. It boosts heart health and helps control blood sugar levels. Nutmeg can also aid in reducing stress and improving your libido. It is also given in small quantities to babies to keep them warm and healthy.
Nutmeg is nutritious and used around the world in desserts like cakes, pies, custard and cookies. Indian sweet dishes aren’t complete without a pinch of nutmeg powder. You can also flavour your coffee, tea or smoothies with it.
Nutty bars
Nutty bars are a blessing and indulgence for weight watchers and kids alike. Interestingly, they have no specific ingredients or recipe which makes them versatile and open for experimentation. Oats, cornflakes, riceflakes, dry fruits like almonds, raisins, pistachios and flax seeds, sesame seeds, melon seeds etc are few choices one can go with. They’re highly nutritious and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, antioxidants and fiber. Natural sweeteners like jaggery and honey can further enhance their goodness quotient.
Nutty bars can be made in batches and stored for months in the refrigerator. You can pack them in your kids’ lunch-box or enjoy them as a pre-workout or afternoon snack. They can be munched upon on treks or while travelling.
Nachni (foxtail millet) is a superfood that’s packed with nutrients and can be consumed everyday. Naans with their smooth texture and earthy taste are love for foodies. Nachos with salsa and melted cheese toppings are a great party dish. Drooling, are you? 😉
This post is part of the #BlogchatterA2Z challenge by Blogchatter
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So many benefits of nutmeg never knew of these. Nutty bars are a blessing. You correctly pointed out their importance value and taste of course
Deepika Sharma
Nutmeg has many benefits..i was expecting nuts here 🙂 I rarely use Nigella except on Naan. Not too fond of nutri bars as well. Recently I ate Nachos Dahi chat…it was so yummm
I somehow doesnt like the Nutmeg taste
Nutty bars are absolute favorite! can their be anyone who dosent like them? heheh
The first two I use Varsh but still dont know how to make the nutty bars, have seen a post of yours on this, will try it from there for sure 🙂
Nutty bars are my favorite, Nutmeg powder I always use in chai masala, puddings, and in cough remedy too.
Nigella seeds taste great on naan, breads. Also nachni I have used as baby food too and still I prefer as its really a nutritious super food, one can even add nachni powder in daily atta dough too. And for sure just the name Nachos make me drool, as I love nachos platter with loaded cheese and salsa a lot. Am i sounding unhealthy with nachos and dips… hahaha
My mil adds nutmeg to Puran poli, kheer and Shrikhand and we sleep like babies after having it. It rests the body.
I actually very rarely use Nutmeg, guess should get some
I love nutty bars. In Bengali household, we use nigella seeds in cooking many dishes. It was great knowing about its health benefits.
Nachi is something that I started using recently in my day to day meal. yes, it is super healthy and taste good, when we make it with little variations and adding of proper spices. again great list dear from “N” nutritious food.
I add so much nutmeg in my garam masala. I am happy you are sharing great healthy foods daily.
Nigella seeds and nutty bars are almost always there in my kitchen. I use nutmeg sparingly.
Never knew about nutty bar. It looks highly nutritional. Kalindi I generally put in pickle and as you rightly said on naans . Thanks a lot for sharing all these benefits which I wasn’t aware off.
I don’t use kalonji except for homemade pickles. Great to know its numerous health benefits through your post. Nutmeg powder is a recent addition to my pantry. I had been suggested to use it to cure a common cold and it worked well. Though I don’t make bars out of them, nuts are always a yes yes at my place.
It’s really nice to know that we have been choosing almost similar ingredients for our post and look how varied uses they have for us