As it gets colder in Pune, a simple bowl of cold cereal or a quick fruit smoothie just doesn’t work anymore. There’s a new trend for winter wellness that everyone is talking about: Warm, Protein-Rich Breakfasts.
Forget about quick cold snacks. This season is all about warming up your body with nutritious meals. Here’s why this trend is exciting and how you can join in!
Why the Cold Needs a ‘Protein Boost’
When it’s chilly outside, your body has to work harder to stay warm. Eating meals rich in protein not only satisfies your hunger but also boosts your metabolism.
• Staying Full Longer: Protein takes more time to digest, helping to keep those mid-morning cravings away.
• Muscle Recovery: For those exercising early in the morning, warm protein helps muscles recover faster in the cold.
• Consistent Energy: Unlike sugary cereals that cause a crash later, protein gives you steady energy to get through your day.
The ‘Warmth’ Factor: More Than Just Comfort
In Ayurveda and traditional diets, eating warm foods in winter is important for good digestion. Cold foods can slow down digestion when it’s already cold outside.
• Easier on Digestion: Warm food is gentler on your stomach.
Wondering how to skip the cold milk? Here are some tasty, protein-rich ideas to start your day:
• Savory Oats: Ditch the sugar! Cook oats with water or broth, add cooked veggies, a bit of turmeric, and top with a poached egg or crumbled paneer.
• Moong Dal Chilla: A trendy twist on a classic. Fill your hot lentil crepes with spiced tofu or chenna for extra protein.
• Warm Quinoa Bowls: Replace poha with protein-packed quinoa. Cook with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and lots of peanuts or sprouts.
• Classic Shakshuka: Eggs poached in a hot tomato and bell pepper sauce. It’s spicy, warm, and full of protein.
No time for complicated cooking? Here’s how to stay on trend:
• Prep Ahead: Make your lentil or idli batter the night before.
• Boil Eggs in Advance: Keep hard-boiled eggs ready; just add them to a warm sauce or quickly sauté with spices.
• Add Nuts: Mix in a spoon of almond butter or a handful of roasted walnuts into your warm porridge for healthy fats and protein.…Read more by Aashlesha Kakde