Magical benefits of Dal Ka Paani and how to get most out of it

Dal Water or Dal ka Paani is a nutrient-rich drink that is prepared in many Indian households. We all know that lentils or dals are rich in nutrients and as per experts, a single serving meets 32% of the fiber you need each day and is a rich source of protein, calcium, potassium, folate, and iron and can help lower cholesterol and protect against diabetes and colon cancer too.

And dal ka paani being a part of it, which actually refers to leftover liquid residue after cooking dals is no less and is said to have many health benefits. It is said that it is rich in protein, folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium, which are important for smooth functioning of the body such as red blood cells production and smooth muscle contraction.

Here's how you can make it at home
Wash and clean 1/2 cup toor dal and put in the cooker along with turmeric powder, salt, and water. Pressure cook it for 5 whistles or so. Once done, use a strainer to separate the mixture and get the leftover water. Make a tadka with ghee, galic, and hing it. Your homemade magical water is ready to be consumed.

As per experts adding hing to the dal helps enhance the aroma of dal and also aid digestion and help avoid gas and acidity, that often happens because of dals like chana and urad. It also helps treat bronchitis and kidney stones.

And if we talk about the benefits of adding garlic, it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation within the body and help maintain a healthy system. Also, allicin present in garlic functions as an antioxidant, providing protection against oxidative stress. And ,the rich amount of vitamin C aids in strengthening the immune system and supports the healthy development of the body. The antiviral properties of garlic act as a natural warrior, assist in fighting harmful microorganisms and boost the immune system.

How to use Dal ka Paani?
From soup to baking, it can be used in many other forms to get the maximum benefits out of it.

Use for soup
While making soup, instead of using regular water to make the broth, use the dal ka paani and it will automatically enhance the nutritional levels and also work as a subtle taste enhancer to the soup.

Also Read: 4 ways you can include Masoor Dal in your daily diet

For curries
One can also use it in flavouring and improving the texture of curries. It is said to be a natural thickening agent for curries and offers a silky, luxurious texture to all types of curries.

For baking
This might sound different, but yes, dal ka paani can be used to make the dough of bread, and can also be used for pastries, pancakes, or muffins. They not only add an aroma to the dish but also improve the nutritional value of the dish.

For plants
And if you have some extra dal ka paani at home, you may use it for improving the health of your plant babies. The vitamins and minerals in the liquid can nourish your plants and promote healthy growth. As per experts, the dal ka paani is packed with enzymes, amino acids, and hormones that help boost the growth of plants.

For dough
In case you love to play with your roti dough, use dal ka paani in place of regular water. It will give the dough a nice colour and also enhance the taste of roti.

Also Read:10 Indian Dals and their health benefits

Who can have Dal ka Paani?
It is a nutrient-rich drink good for people of all age groups. However, it is said that it makes for a magical drink for kids. It is said that kids who are 6 months and above can be served dal ka paani and is a healthy drink for them in the growing years. While making the kids drink the water, make sure that you do not serve it in bottles. Also, make the baby sit up straight with some support and then give him/her the dal paani. Lastly, add a pinch of hint to dal ka paani to avoid acidity and bloating.

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