With a growing inclination towards health and fitness, people are falling back to the basics by going for traditional remedies for fixing day-to-day health issues. One such best-kept secret from traditional Indian households is Kanji, which is a perfect winter remedy for improving immunity and metabolism during the winter season. Here’s all you need to know about Kanji and types of kanji you can try this season.
What is Kanji?
Kefir is a traditional fermented drink made by fermenting a variety of ingredients, often vegetables, spices, herbs, and water. Rich in probiotics, kanji not only helps in digestion but also provides numerous health benefits, making it a great addition to your winter diet. Here are six unique and fermented kanji drinks to try this winter season that will keep you warm, healthy, and satisfied.
Carrot Kanji
Carrot kanji is one of the most popular variations of this traditional drink. Made with grated carrots, mustard seeds, black salt, and a mix of spices, carrot kanji is naturally sweet and tangy, with a hint of spice. This vibrant, orange-hued drink is packed with vitamins, especially vitamin A, and offers a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks. Carrot kanji has a slightly warming effect, making it a perfect drink for the colder months. The probiotics from the fermentation process also aid digestion, helping you to stay energized during winter.
Beetroot Kanji
Beetroot kanji is another variation that is loved for its deep purple color and earthy, sweet flavor. It’s made by fermenting grated beetroot along with spices like black salt, red chili powder, and mustard seeds. Beetroots are known for their detoxifying properties and high content of antioxidants, making this drink both tasty and nutritious. Beetroot kanji boosts the immune system, which is particularly helpful during the winter season when the body is more susceptible to illnesses. It also provides natural warmth, promoting circulation and helping you feel cozy.
Mango Kanji
Though more commonly consumed during the summer, mango kanji can also be enjoyed in the winter months when you’re craving a tropical twist. Made with fermented mango pulp, mustard seeds, and a variety of spices, this drink offers a delicious mix of sweet and spicy flavors. While fresh mangoes may not be in season, this kanji uses preserved or dried mangoes, capturing the fruit’s essence. Mango kanji aids digestion and boosts energy with its rich vitamin content. The slight tanginess and warmth from the spices make it a great drink to enjoy in winter to keep you hydrated and comfortable.
Radish Kanji
Radish kanji is made from grated radishes, a root vegetable known for its sharp flavor. The fermentation process softens the bitterness of radishes, creating a flavorful drink that’s both tangy and spicy. Radish kanji is often prepared with spices such as mustard seeds, red chili powder, and cumin seeds, adding layers of flavor to the drink.Radish is known to have warming properties, which makes it an excellent choice for colder months. The high fiber content of radishes aids digestion, and the spicy kick from the mustard seeds helps increase body temperature, providing a comforting warmth on chilly days.
Cucumber Kanji
Cucumber kanji is a milder and more refreshing version compared to the other varieties. Made with grated cucumbers, salt, black pepper, and mustard seeds, this kanji has a lighter, more hydrating profile. The subtle, cool flavor of cucumber makes it a great option if you’re looking for something less intense.
Though cucumber is known for its cooling properties, when fermented, it retains its hydrating benefits while providing a slight tanginess that helps in boosting digestion. This makes cucumber kanji a perfect winter drink if you need to refresh without feeling too heavy.
Mixed Vegetable Kanji
For those who enjoy a variety of flavors, a mixed vegetable kanji is an excellent choice. This version combines a mix of root vegetables like carrots, beets, and radishes with mustard seeds, spices, and salt. The combination of vegetables adds complexity to the flavor profile, creating a drink that is both spicy and earthy.Mixed vegetable kanji is packed with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from a variety of vegetables, which boosts immunity during the cold months. The fermentation process enhances the digestibility of the vegetables, and the warmth from the spices provides comfort on cold winter days.
