Bollywood actor Sanjay Kapoor recently showcased his love for traditional Punjabi cuisine, sharing a hearty meal that has sparked conversations about its significant health advantages. The actor posted a photo of himself enjoying a classic winter plate of makki ki roti and sarson da saag, generously topped with desi ghee and jaggery.
A Star's Love Letter to Punjabi Cuisine
On his Instagram, Kapoor expressed his affection with the caption, "Makke ki roti, sarson da saag with desi ghee and gud, I ♥️ Punjab." The post from the 'Param Sundari' actor highlights a growing trend of celebrities embracing and promoting regional Indian foods. This isn't just about comfort eating; nutrition experts confirm that this seasonal combination is a powerhouse of nutrients specifically beneficial during the colder months.
Decoding the Nutritional Powerhouse
According to Deepalakshmi, a registered dietitian at Shree Balaji Medical Centre in Chennai, this iconic meal is a boon for gut health. She explains that sarson ka saag is typically prepared by slow-cooking mustard greens, often with spinach or bathua (chenopodium album), and flavoured with ginger, garlic, and ghee. This cooking process softens the fibre, making it gentle on the digestive system.
"Mustard greens are rich in dietary fibre and prebiotics," Deepalakshmi elaborates. "These components feed the beneficial bacteria in our gut, which subsequently aid digestion, boost immunity, and improve nutrient absorption." She adds that natural compounds in the leaves help reduce gut inflammation and keep the digestive tract clean.
Why Makki Ki Roti Complements the Saag
The other half of this classic duo, makki di roti, made from maize flour, brings its own set of benefits. Deepalakshmi points out that it is a good source of complex carbohydrates and resistant starch, both of which nourish gut microbes. These microbes produce short-chain fatty acids that strengthen the gut lining and can reduce bloating. Furthermore, being naturally gluten-free, maize is easier to digest for those with wheat sensitivities.
The dietitian also highlights the role of desi ghee. It not only enhances flavour but provides healthy fats that aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) from the greens. Ghee contains butyrate, a compound known to strengthen intestinal cells and promote smoother digestion.
How to Incorporate This Meal Into Your Diet
Deepalakshmi recommends including dark green leafy vegetables daily. "Sarson ka saag is a great way to add variety. Have at least one cup daily during its season, or include it in your diet at least twice a week," she advises. To maximise nutrient retention, frequent consumption during the winter months is ideal.
However, she offers a note of caution: since maize can be harder to digest, individuals with weak digestion or conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) might find it too heavy. For them, and for anyone looking to boost the meal's benefits, pairing it with probiotic-rich curd or buttermilk is an excellent idea. This adds good bacteria that further improve gut health and make the meal easier on the stomach.
In essence, Sanjay Kapoor's favourite winter indulgence is more than just delicious comfort food. It's a fibre-rich, prebiotic-friendly combination that supports gut balance, regular digestion, and overall wellness, proving that traditional dietary wisdom often aligns perfectly with modern nutritional science.
