Popular Traditional Indian Summer Dishes
One of the most popular Indian dishes for summer is dal tadka. This dish consists of cooked lentils, simmered in a smooth tomato-based gravy and enhanced with spices like cumin and turmeric. Another favorite is aloo gobi, which is a simple potato and cauliflower curry. It's lightly spiced with chili powder, coriander, and garam masala and can be served as a side dish or as the main course. For those who want to stay cool on a hot day, raita is the perfect option.
This yogurt-based dish features cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and herbs like mint or cilantro – all blended together to create a refreshing accompaniment to any meal. Raita can even be used as a dip or as an ingredient in sandwiches. Finally, no summer meal would be complete without pakora – deep fried vegetable fritters that are both spicy and delicious! These make great appetizers or snacks when served with chutney or tamarind sauce.
Benefits of Eating Traditional Indian Summer Meals
Traditional Indian summer meals offer many health benefits. Eating seasonal produce is always recommended, and summertime in India is the perfect time to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants and vitamins. Additionally, traditional Indian dishes are typically lower in fat than other cuisines, making them a healthier alternative for those who want to watch their weight. Furthermore, traditional Indian dishes often feature spices like turmeric, cardamom, and cumin which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help boost immunity.
Finally, these meals are also a great way to add variety to your diet as they provide a delicious alternative to the same old foods you may be eating all year round.