9 Comforting Amla Dishes to Warm Up Your Winter
As the chilly winter months set in, many Indians turn to seasonal foods that offer both comfort and health benefits. Among these, amla, or Indian gooseberry, stands out as a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in vitamin C, polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins, this Ayurveda-approved fruit is celebrated for its medicinal properties, including boosting immunity and reducing oxidative stress.
According to the Journal of Medicinal Food, 2006, the high vitamin C content and polyphenols in amla help improve white blood cell function, protect cells from premature aging, and combat inflammation and chronic diseases. Beyond its common use in chutneys, amla can be transformed into a variety of comforting dishes that are ideal for winter. Here are nine delightful amla recipes you can easily prepare at home to enjoy during the cold season.
1. Amla Murabba
This traditional slow-cooked dish involves pricked amla pieces simmered in sugar or jaggery syrup. It is soothing, energising, and excellent for enhancing immunity, making it a winter favourite.
2. Amla Rasam
A warm, peppery South Indian soup-like dish, amla rasam is made with moong dal, amla, turmeric, and salt. It is boiled with a concoction of water, coriander leaves, garlic, green chilli, and black pepper, and pairs perfectly with idli, vada, or steamed rice.
3. Amla Chutney
One of the most popular amla dishes for winter, this condiment is prepared using a mortar and pestle or mixer grinder. Key ingredients include amla, coconut, ginger, coriander leaves, garlic, and green chillies. For added flavour, top it with raw mustard oil.
4. Amla Thokku
Made with boiled amla cooked with mustard seeds, red chillies, and sesame oil, this thick relish is a delightful accompaniment to hot rice and ghee, offering a burst of flavour and warmth.
5. Amla Sabzi
For a main course option, boil amla and dice it, then cook in a temper of oil, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and hing along with onion and spices. A hint of sugar or jaggery helps reduce the bitterness, making it a perfect pairing with roti.
6. Amla Pickle
This instant pickle features steamed amla pieces dunked in hot mustard oil with cumin powder, mustard seeds powder, coriander powder, mango powder, turmeric, chilli powder, and salt. It has a shelf-life of 7-10 days, adding a tangy twist to meals.
7. Amla Paratha
Ideal for a healthy breakfast, mix grated amla into whole wheat dough along with spices and onion. Roll out the paratha, cook on a tawa using ghee, and enjoy with curd and pickle for a nutritious start to the day.
8. Amla Kadhi
A winter-friendly main course dish, amla kadhi is best enjoyed with steamed rice. Prepare classic kadhi with buttermilk, spices, and besan, then add grated amla and simmer until well-cooked. It makes for a comforting lunch or dinner.
9. Amla Ginger Tea
This popular herbal drink is made by boiling water with amla, ginger, and tulsi leaves. Strain and add honey for sweetness. It is ideal for chilly mornings, providing warmth and a significant immunity boost.
These amla dishes not only offer culinary delight but also harness the fruit's health benefits, making them a must-try during the winter months. Whether you're looking for a sweet treat like murabba or a hearty meal like kadhi, amla can be your go-to ingredient for a healthy and comforting winter.
