All About Horse grams
Did you know there is a superfood that’s been hiding in the shadows, waiting for its moment to shine? Yes, we’re talking about the humble Horse gram. Native to the tropical regions of Africa and South Asia, these little legumes have been serving under the gastronomic radar for too long. Packed with nutritional goodness and a rich history, Horse grams, known scientifically as Macrotyloma uniflorum, deserve to take center stage.
The Nutritious Profile of Horse Grams
Don’t let their small size deter you. These tiny legumes carry an array of health benefits and rich nutrients. High in iron, calcium and protein, horse grams make for an excellent source of essential minerals and macronutrients. Studies have noted their high phenolic content, which provides antioxidant properties, beneficial for combatting inflammation and oxidative stress.
Rich in fiber, horse grams also facilitate improved digestion and help in maintaining a healthy gut. Plus, with a low glycemic index and calorie count, they can be an excellent addition to weight loss diets and for those managing diabetes.
Incorporating Horse Grams into Your Diet
The beauty of horse grams lies not only in their nutrient profile but also in their versatility. They can be seamlessly incorporated into a plethora of dishes ranging from soups to salads, curries, and even desserts. The traditional Indian dish ‘Kulith Saar’, in particular, harnesses the hearty flavor of horse grams. However, no matter how exquisite and flavorful the dish might be, it is essential to ensure the horse grams are properly cooked as raw or improperly cooked ones are hard to digest.
Before cooking, it’s recommended to soak them overnight or for 7 to 8 hours and then pressure cook. Alternatively, they can be sprouted, ground into flour, or converted into a refreshing horse gram soup.
Acknowledging the Health Benefits of Horse Grams
When it comes to the health benefits of horse grams, we have only touched the tip of the iceberg. They are known to possess heat-producing properties, thus making them beneficial in treating cold and easing respiratory issues. The presence of phenolic acids and flavonoids can help lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
They are also known for their diuretic properties, helping promote renal health by reducing the chances of kidney stone formation. Aside from these, an exciting research suggests horse grams can be a potential food intervention for managing obesity.
With a plethora of health benefits and culinary potential, horse grams deserve more recognition in the culinary world and in our homes. Not only are they a nutrition powerhouse, but their hearty flavor and versatility make them a worthwhile addition to any pantry.
Horse gram Recipe Ideas
- Horse Gram Soup
- Horse Gram and Vegetable Curry
- Spicy Horse Gram Chutney
- Horse Gram Pancakes
- Horse Gram and Coconut Stir Fry
- Horse Gram Dosai
- Horse Gram and Spinach Salad
- Horse Gram and Tomato Rice
- Horse Gram and Onion Paratha
- Horse Gram Dal