National Nutrition Week- Celebrate a world of flavours

In the previous blog, we had taken a tour around the different cuisines and pupilar healthy dishes of few of the top healthiest countries in the world.  In this blog, we would be exploring the flavours of the Middle East, the food being known for their vibrance, richness and sensory appeal . Each cuisine has its own local delicacies which may differ from place to place. Let’s explore few of the healthy delicacies of middle East

Every year, the government provides a unique theme , and the Theme for National Nutrition Week in 20222  is ‘Celebrate a World of Flavours’. Through  this article, we will travel into the middle east to relish the mouth watering flavours and dishes of the Middle east and comforting Emirati dishes   that not only pack a punch of flavour but are also super healthy.

1. Hummus

All hail the glory of the famous hummus. It is so versatile, it can be used as a dip to your nachos or chips,  you can serve it as a healthy creamy side dish for dinner, drizzle olive oil on top for a healthy twist, it can be made with different fusion flavours and ingredients-the possibilities  are endless. The main ingredient is garbanzo beans also called chickpea, which is an excellent source of plant based protein  and fibre. If mixed and served with veggies, it packs a punch of nutrition in a serving. 

2. Balaleet

Bringing the best of both worlds is this sweet and savoury dish popular in the Arab and Persian gulf nations. Traditionally, this dish is made with vermicelli, rose water, saffron and sweetened with sugar and topped with an egg omelette,  It contains very healthy ingredients  like egg cardamom, saffron, vermicelli and vegetables and can be a wholesome meal that is healthy and tasty

3. Harees

If you want to enjoy a cozy home cooked meal, what better than a porridge? Harees is a dish that is almost the consistency of porridge, made with coarsely ground wheat, mixed with meat, seasonings and spices. Very similar to another popular ramadan dish called Haleem, It is commonly eaten in the month of Ramadan and can be mixed with other healthy options like vegetables, nuts etc to make it a wholesome meal. 

4. Mejadra

Your best bet for comfort home food, Mejadra is the ultimate food companion to comfort your stomach. This widely popular Middle Eastern  dish is made with fragrant spiced rice, lentils and fried onions. It is a well balanced dish that can provide your body with fibre, protein and many other vitamins 

5. Machboos

A very popular dish in the Arab Gulf region, this dish if made at home is the perfect flavourful and nutritious meal. Very similar to Biryani, this dish has fibre, vitamins and protein. With the right amount of tweaks, adding in more vegetables, it can increase the nutritious value without losing its flavour 

One need not compromise on flavours to make the right food choices. Though diet plays a huge role in one’s lifestyle, one must approach healthy living from a multidimensional perspective. A balanced diet, proper exercise, relaxation period as well as leisure time is a must to maintain a healthy body and mind