5 iron-rich recipes to boost energy levels during winters

Worried about low energy levels during cold weather? Combat winter fatigue with these 5 delicious and iron-rich recipes.

Iron-rich dishes can support your overall well-being, moods and energy levels, more so in winters, the season which is bound to make you feel lethargic and low. An important mineral, iron helps to make haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that helps carry oxygen from lungs to all parts of the body, and myoglobin, a protein that provides oxygen to muscles. Dark green veggies, dry fruits, nuts and seeds, legumes are all winter-friendly foods which are also high in iron. Some of the symptoms of iron deficiency are fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches, irritability, among others; if you are experiencing any of these signs, you must get your iron levels checked. (Also read | 5 nourishing winter recipes to beat the chill and treat your taste buds)

In the meanwhile, here are some iron-rich recipes suggested by Nutritionist Dr Nitika Kohli, that can beat your winter blues and boost energy during the season.

Easy iron-rich recipes

1. Spinach Lentil Soup

Ingredients

Split yellow lentils (toor dal)
Fresh spinach leaves
Turmeric powder
Cumin seeds
Garlic
Ginger
Green chillies
Ghee
Salt
Water

Method

• Cook lentils in water and turmeric until soft
• In a separate pan, sizzle cumin seeds, ginger, garlic and green chillies in ghee
• Add in spinach and stir until wilted and combine with the lentils, add salt, and let simmer for a few minutes

2. Beetroot and Carrot salad

Ingredients

Grated beetroot
Grated carrot
Lemon juice
Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves
Roasted cumin powder
Salt
Black pepper

Method

• Mix grated beetroot and carrot
• Season with salt, lemon juice, and roasted cumin powder
• Garnish with chopped coriander

3. Ragi Porridge

Ingredients

Ragi flour
Water
Milk (for almond milk)
Jaggery or sweetener of choice
Cardamom powder

Method

• Stir ragi flour in water until thick
• Add milk, sweetener and cardamom
• Cook until the desired consistency is achieved

4. Pomegranate and Dates Chutney

Ingredients

Pomegranate seeds
Dates
Cumin powder
Salt
Red chilli powder

Method

• Blend pomegranate seeds and dates to make a thick paste
• Season with cumin powder, salt, and a pinch of red chilli powder

5. Black Sesame Seed Laddoos

Ingredients

Black sesame seeds
Sweet jaggery or date paste
Rich ghee

Method

• Grind sesame seeds until coarse
• Mix with jaggery or date paste and ghee to form a dough
• Roll into bite-sized balls and enjoy a healthy, energy-packed snack!