EASY GROUNDNUTS WITH GIFT OF PROTEINS

                                                 

Groundnut is well-known &easily available form of protein food. It is also known as peanuts. Ground nut is a widely grown crop and can be produced in almost all parts of the world. It is cheap cost wise, but rich in many nutrients. It is used as a substitute for cashew nut to reduce the expenses.  Minerals, vitamins, and proteins are a plenty in this underground produce. It can be consumed fresh &wet, dry &roasted and cooked. Groundnuts are quick to use in the kitchen and helps to prepare numerous recipes within short time &this can be used as a substitute for almost many items. These are added in the seasoning & tempering to enhance the flavour of the dish. Groundnut chutney, sundal, & candy are the highly familiar recipes. This is mixed in salads, sambhar, kootu, poha, & puffed rice uppuma, khichidi and in many sweet preparations. Groundnut oil is also used in cooking. Peanut butter is prepared with this and extensively used as a spread. There are many benefits of consuming groundnuts as it has natural antioxidant properties. Helps reduce cholesterol, lower the risk of cardio vascular diseases, works as anti -ageing, Improves concentration & memory. It is good for people with diabetics and heart diseases.

                                    

Groundnuts are sure to be part of Navarathri or dusshera celebrations. These are one of the NavaDhanyas used during the festival. One sundal with a dhanya (Grain) every-day is prepared for all the nine days of the festival. In many south Indian marriages groundnut candy in a conical shape is definitely prepared. Dry or roasted ones form a healthy snack during the evenings. In rainy season these are cooked and served hot.

                              

 Groundnut chutney can be prepared by just roasting the required amount of groundnuts along with some red chillies. Then grind it in a mixer by adding little salt. (If preferred onion, garlic, tomato &coconut can also be added) Add water to make it a paste. Add more water &dilute it according to your preference. Make some seasoning with mustard seeds. (Store the grounded mixture without adding water & when required simply mix with water &serve.)