Oil-Free Wellness Kitchen: 10 Healing Recipes

Oil-Free Steamed Urad Dal Dumplings with Herbal Gravy

(High-Protein | Gut-Friendly | Diabetic-Friendly | Weight-Supportive)

Serving Size: 1 bowl (2–3 dumplings with gravy)

Cooking Method: Steaming + Slow Cooking (No Oil)


Ingredients

For Steamed Dumplings

  • Urad dal (split, skinned) – 50 g

  • Spinach (palak), finely chopped – 10 g

  • Fresh coriander leaves – 10 g

  • Cumin seeds – 0.5 g

  • Salt – as per taste

  • Optional: Fenugreek leaves / Moringa leaves – 5 g

For Gravy

  • Onion (ground) – 20 g

  • Tomato (ground) – 30 g

  • Green chilli paste – 10 g

  • Ginger paste – 10 g

  • Garlic paste – 10 g

  • Coriander powder – 1 g

  • Turmeric powder – 1 g

  • Cumin powder – 2 g

  • Garam masala – 1 g

  • Salt – 2 g

  • Water – as required


Preparation Method

Step 1: Dumpling Preparation

  1. Wash urad dal 3–4 times and soak for 5–6 hours.

  2. Grind with minimal water to form a thick batter.

  3. Add spinach, coriander, cumin seeds, and salt. Mix well.

  4. Place batter on a muslin cloth inside a steamer.

  5. Steam for 10–15 minutes until soft and cooked.

  6. Remove and allow to cool. Keep aside.


Step 2: Gravy Preparation (Oil-Free Method)

  1. Heat a clay or thick-bottom vessel.

  2. Dry roast cumin seeds on low flame.

  3. Add ground onion and sauté on low flame, stirring continuously.

  4. Add tomato, ginger, garlic, and green chilli paste.

  5. Add spices and cook slowly.

  6. Use plate-with-water (steam regulation method) on the lid to prevent burning.

  7. After 5–7 minutes, add water and simmer until gravy thickens.

  8. Add steamed dumplings and cook for another 3–5 minutes.

  9. Switch off flame and serve warm.


Nutritional Value (Approx. per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Energy 220–250 kcal
Protein 14–16 g
Carbohydrates 28–30 g
Dietary Fiber 7–9 g
Fat 2–3 g (Natural, no added oil)
Iron 4–5 mg
Calcium 120–150 mg
Potassium 400–450 mg
Vitamin A High (from spinach)
Vitamin C Moderate (from tomato & coriander)

Therapeutic Benefits

Urad Dal

  • Excellent plant protein

  • Supports muscle strength

  • Improves gut health

  • Helps stabilize blood sugar

Spinach & Herbs

  • Rich in iron and antioxidants

  • Supports detoxification

  • Improves hemoglobin levels

Steaming Method

  • Preserves nutrients

  • Easy to digest

  • Ideal for diabetes, PCOS, fatty liver, weight loss

Oil-Free Cooking

  • Reduces inflammation

  • Supports heart health

  • Prevents acidity and bloating


Who Can Consume This Dish?

 Diabetics
 Weight-loss clients
 Fatty liver patients
 PCOS & hormonal imbalance
 Elderly & digestive issues
 Post-illness recovery


Pro Tip (Holistic Touch)

 

  • Best consumed at lunch

  • Pair with lemon water or cumin water

  • Avoid at night for weak digestion

Little Millet Kheer (Oil-Free | Dairy-Free | Gut-Friendly Dessert)

(Diabetic-friendly • Weight-supportive • Seasonal nourishment)

Serving Size: 1 bowl (150–180 ml)

Cooking Method: Soaking + Open Cooking + Double Boiler Warming


Ingredients

  • Little millet (soaked & cooked) – 25 g (raw weight)

  • Coconut milk (fresh, homemade) – 150 ml

  • Dates (soaked & paste) – 2–3 small dates (15 g)

  • Fennel seeds (crushed, optional) – 0.5 g

  • Water – as required


Preparation Method

Step 1: Millet Preparation

  1. Wash little millet 3–4 times.

  2. Soak:

    • Summer: 5–6 hours

    • Winter: 8–9 hours

  3. Cook soaked millet in an open vessel with 4–5 times water until soft.

  4. Transfer cooked millet to a bowl.


Step 2: Coconut Milk Preparation

  1. Take 20–25 g fresh coconut.

  2. Blend with warm water.

  3. Strain to get 150 ml fresh coconut milk.


Step 3: Kheer Preparation

  1. Add coconut milk to cooked millet.

  2. Mix well and adjust consistency.

  3. Add date paste as a natural sweetener.

  4. Add crushed fennel seeds (optional).


Step 4: Warming Method (Winter Use)

  • Use Double Boiler Method:

    • Heat water in a vessel.

    • Place the kheer bowl on top (no direct flame).

    • Warm for 2–4 minutes using steam.

  • This preserves nutrients and fat structure of nut milk.


Nutritional Value (Approx. per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Energy 210–230 kcal
Carbohydrates 32–35 g
Protein 5–6 g
Fat 7–9 g (Good fats from coconut)
Dietary Fiber 6–7 g
Iron 2.5–3 mg
Magnesium 60–70 mg
Potassium 350–400 mg
Calcium 40–50 mg
Zinc 1.2 mg
Glycemic Load Low–Moderate

Therapeutic & Holistic Benefits

Little Millet

  • Low glycemic index

  • Improves insulin sensitivity

  • Rich in fiber → supports gut & weight loss

  • Strengthens nerves and metabolism

Coconut Milk

  • Provides medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA)

  • Easy digestion

  • Supports brain & hormonal health

Dates (Natural Sweetener)

  • Rich in iron & potassium

  • No refined sugar spikes

  • Improves energy & bowel movement

Fennel Seeds

  • Reduces bloating & gas

  • Enhances digestion

  • Cooling effect for the gut


Who Can Consume This Kheer?

 Diabetics (controlled portions)
 PCOS & hormonal imbalance
 Fatty liver patients
 Gut & acidity issues
 Weight-loss clients
 Elderly & children (6+ yrs)


Best Time to Consume

  • Morning or Lunch Dessert

  • Avoid at night for weak digestion


Clinical Tip

  • Diabetics: limit to ½ serving

  • Add cardamom instead of dates if sugar needs strict control

Oil-Free Aloo Gobi (Potato & Cauliflower Sabzi)

(Winter Special • Heart-Friendly • Gut-Friendly • Weight-Supportive)

Serving Size: 1 bowl (180–200 g)

Cooking Method: Slow sauté + Steam regulation (Water-on-Lid Method)

Cookware: Clay pot / Thick-bottom vessel


Ingredients

  • Potato (aloo), chopped – 150 g

  • Cauliflower (gobi), chopped – 150 g

  • Onion, chopped – 20 g

  • Tomato, chopped – 40 g

  • Ginger paste – 5 g

  • Garlic paste – 5 g

  • Green chilli paste – 5 g

  • Cumin seeds – 1 g

  • Turmeric powder – 1–2 g

  • Garam masala – 1 g

  • Salt – 2–3 g (as per taste)

  • Fresh coriander leaves – 5 g

  • Water – as required (sprinkling + steaming plate)


Preparation Method

Step 1: Vegetable Safety Prep

  • Since vegetables are non-organic, soak them in water with refined salt for 15 minutes.

  • This helps reduce up to 80% pesticide residue.


Step 2: Oil-Free Masala Base

  1. Heat a clay pot on low flame.

  2. Add cumin seeds and roast until crackling sound appears.

  3. Add onion and sauté slowly, stirring continuously.

  4. Add tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and green chilli paste.

  5. If the base becomes dry, sprinkle water to prevent burning.

  6. Cook until masala releases aroma.


Step 3: Vegetable Cooking

  1. Add chopped potato and cauliflower.

  2. Add salt and turmeric.

  3. Mix well and cook for 2–3 minutes on low flame.


Step 4: Steam Regulation (Traditional Method)

  • Place a plate with water on the lid (Water-on-Lid / Steaming Plate Method).

  • Cook for 5–7 minutes on very low flame.

  • This:

    • Prevents burning

    • Regulates internal temperature

    • Helps vegetables release natural oils

    • Enhances flavor without added fat


Step 5: Final Touch

  • Add garam masala and fresh coriander leaves.

  • Mix gently and switch off flame.


Nutritional Value (Approx. per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Energy 190–210 kcal
Carbohydrates 35–38 g
Protein 5–6 g
Fat 1.5–2 g (no added oil)
Dietary Fiber 7–8 g
Vitamin C 45–50 mg
Vitamin B6 0.5 mg
Potassium 750–800 mg
Magnesium 45–55 mg
Iron 2–2.5 mg
Glycemic Load Moderate

Therapeutic & Holistic Benefits

Potato

  • Provides sustained energy

  • Rich in potassium → supports heart & nerve health

  • When oil-free, does not spike cholesterol

Cauliflower

  • High fiber → improves digestion

  • Detox-supportive

  • Anti-inflammatory properties

Spices (Cumin, Ginger, Turmeric)

  • Improve digestion & metabolism

  • Reduce bloating and gas

  • Support immunity and joint health

Oil-Free + Slow Cooking

  • Reduces inflammatory load

  • Protects liver & heart

  • Ideal for lifestyle disease reversal


Who Can Consume This Dish?

 Weight-loss clients
 Diabetics (portion control)
 Fatty liver patients
 PCOS & hormonal imbalance
 Elderly & gut-sensitive individuals


Best Time to Consume

  • Lunch or early dinner

  • Pair with millet roti / jowar roti / plain rice


Clinical Tip

  • For diabetics: increase gobi, reduce potato ratio

  • Add ajwain if digestion is weak

Millet Chaas (Barnyard Millet Buttermilk)

(Digestive, Cooling, Gut-Friendly, Low-Calorie)

Serving Size: 1 glass (~200 ml)

Cooking Method: Boiled millet + Blended nut milk

Cookware: Saucepan + Mixing bowl


Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Barnyard millet (cooked) 25 g
Coconut (fresh, grated) 25 g
Water 150 ml (for coconut milk)
Green peas (steamed) 30 g
Tomato (chopped) 1 tbsp (~15 g)
Green chilli (chopped) 1–2 g
Roasted cumin powder 1 g
Salt 1–2 g (as per taste)
Lemon juice 5–7 ml (½ small lemon)
Fresh coriander leaves 2–3 g

Preparation Method

Step 1: Soaking and Cooking Millet

  1. Wash barnyard millet 3–4 times.

  2. Soak it for 5–6 hours (summer) or 8–9 hours (winter).

  3. Boil the soaked millet until soft and fully cooked.


Step 2: Prepare Coconut Milk

  1. Take 25 g fresh coconut and blend with 150 ml water.

  2. Strain the mixture to extract 100 ml coconut milk.


Step 3: Assemble the Chaas

  1. In a mixing bowl, add cooked millet and coconut milk.

  2. Add steamed green peas, tomato, and green chilli.

  3. Add salt, lemon juice, and roasted cumin powder.

  4. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

  5. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

  6. Serve chilled (summer) or slightly warm (winter).


Nutritional Value (Approx. per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Energy 130–150 kcal
Carbohydrates 22–24 g
Protein 4–5 g
Fat 3–4 g (natural from coconut)
Dietary Fiber 3–4 g
Vitamin C 10–12 mg
Calcium 20–25 mg
Iron 1–1.5 mg
Magnesium 25–30 mg
Glycemic Load Low to moderate

Holistic & Therapeutic Benefits

  • Barnyard Millet:

    • Easy to digest, supports gut health

    • Stabilizes blood sugar (low glycemic load)

    • Provides essential minerals

  • Coconut Milk:

    • Rich in healthy fats for satiety

    • Supports immunity and brain function

  • Green Peas & Tomato:

    • Adds fiber, antioxidants, and natural sweetness

    • Supports detoxification

  • Cumin, Lemon, & Green Chilli:

    • Boost digestion, improve metabolism

    • Enhance nutrient absorption


Who Can Consume

 Diabetics (portion-controlled)
 People with weak digestion
 Those seeking weight management
 Children & adults needing light, nutritious snacks


Tips

  • Adjust salt and lemon to taste.

  • For a creamier texture, increase coconut milk slightly.

  • Can be served cold in summer for a refreshing drink.

No-Oil Chana Dal (Oil-Free Cooking)

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10–15 min (soaking time extra)

Cook Time: 20–25 min


Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity Notes
Chana Dal (Bengal gram) 50 g Soaked for 5–6 hours
Water 400 ml For boiling dal
Cumin seeds 2 g (½ tsp) Roasted
Onion 2 tbsp (~30 g) Finely chopped
Tomato 2 tbsp (~30 g) Finely chopped
Ginger ½ tsp Finely chopped
Garlic ½ tsp Finely chopped
Turmeric powder 1 g (~¼ tsp) For color & flavor
Cumin powder 1 g (~¼ tsp) Optional extra ¼ tsp
Coriander powder 1 g (~¼ tsp) Optional
Green chili 1 small Finely chopped, optional
Salt 2–3 g (~½ tsp) To taste
Fresh coriander leaves 1 tsp For garnish
Water (for steaming spices) 2–3 tbsp To prevent sticking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soaking & Boiling Dal

  1. Wash 50 g Chana Dal 3–4 times.

  2. Soak in water for 5–6 hours (longer for harder legumes like Rajma or Chole – 8–9 hours).

  3. Drain and rinse. Boil in 400 ml water with a pinch of salt in a pressure cooker (2–3 whistles) until soft.

  4. Remove froth that forms on top during boiling (helps reduce uric acid and improves digestibility). Set aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Spice Base (No-Oil Cooking)

  1. Heat a clay pot or heavy-bottomed pan on low heat.

  2. Add 2 g cumin seeds and roast lightly until aromatic.

  3. Add onion (2 tbsp) and cook lightly. If it starts sticking, sprinkle 1–2 drops of water.

  4. Add tomato (2 tbsp) and cook for a few minutes. Again, add water if needed.

  5. Add ½ tsp ginger and ½ tsp garlic. Stir well.

  6. Add turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder (1 g each).

  7. Add 2–3 tbsp water on a separate plate for steam cooking: place over spices so they cook slowly with steam, releasing their natural oils. Cook for 5–7 minutes on low heat.

Step 3: Combine Dal with Spices

  1. Add the boiled Chana Dal to the cooked spices.

  2. Cook together for 2–3 minutes on low heat.

  3. Check consistency and add a splash of water if needed.

Step 4: Finishing Touch

  1. Add green chili (optional), salt to taste, and fresh coriander for garnish.

  2. Serve hot with roti, rice, or as a side dish.


Estimated Nutritional Value (per serving, ~125 g)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 150 kcal
Protein 9 g
Carbohydrates 22 g
Dietary Fiber 7 g
Sugars 3 g
Fat 0.5 g
Saturated Fat 0.1 g
Sodium 150 mg
Iron 2 mg
Calcium 25 mg

Notes on Nutrition:

  • High in plant protein and dietary fiber.

  • Low in fat and oil-free, making it heart-friendly.

  • Soaking the dal enhances digestibility and reduces anti-nutrients like phytic acid.

  • Spices provide antioxidants and aid digestion.

No-Oil Millet Khichdi Recipe

Servings: 2
Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes (excluding soaking)
Cuisine: Indian / Healthy / Ayurvedic
Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Oil-Free


Ingredients

Grains & Lentils

  • Foxtail Millet – 20 g (soaked for 5–6 hours in summer, 8–9 hours in winter)

  • Moong Dal (split green gram) – 40 g (soaked 5–6 hours)

Vegetables

  • Onion – 2 tbsp, finely chopped

  • Tomato – 2 tbsp, finely chopped

  • Green chili – 1 medium, chopped

  • Optional: Capsicum (bell pepper) – 2 tbsp, chopped

  • Optional: Green peas – 2 tbsp

Spices

  • Cumin seeds – 2 g

  • Ginger – 1 tsp, finely chopped or grated

  • Garlic – 1 tsp, finely chopped or grated

  • Turmeric – 1/2 tsp (optional)

  • Coriander powder – 1 g

  • Cumin powder – 1 g

  • Garam masala – 2 g

Others

  • Salt – to taste

  • Water – as required for boiling and cooking (approximately 200–250 ml)

  • Fresh coriander – for garnish


Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

  1. Soak grains and lentils:

    • Rinse foxtail millet and moong dal 3–4 times.

    • Soak foxtail millet for 5–6 hours (summer) or 8–9 hours (winter).

    • Soak moong dal for 5–6 hours.

  2. Boil millet and dal:

    • Drain soaked millet and moong dal.

    • Boil separately in water until soft. Set aside.


Cooking the Khichdi (No-Oil Method)

  1. Roast cumin seeds:

    • Take a clay pot or heavy-bottom pan.

    • Add cumin seeds and roast on low heat until aromatic. Keep stirring to prevent burning.

  2. Cook onions and tomatoes:

    • Add onions and stir.

    • If sticking occurs, sprinkle a few drops of water.

    • Add tomatoes and cook until soft.

  3. Add aromatics and optional vegetables:

    • Add ginger, garlic, green chili.

    • Stir and let natural moisture release from vegetables prevent sticking.

    • Optionally add capsicum and green peas.

  4. Add spices:

    • Add turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala.

    • Stir and sprinkle a little water if the mixture looks dry.

  5. Traditional steam method (optional but recommended):

    • Place a plate with water above the pan.

    • Steam for 5 minutes. This prevents burning and allows spices to release natural oils.

  6. Combine millet and dal:

    • Add boiled foxtail millet and moong dal to the cooked vegetable-spice mixture.

    • Add a little water to adjust consistency.

    • Cook on low heat for another 5 minutes.

  7. Final seasoning:

    • Adjust salt to taste.

    • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.


Serving Suggestion

  • Serve hot as a complete meal.

  • Pair with a side of yogurt or fresh salad for extra protein and probiotics.


Approximate Nutritional Values (per serving)

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 180–200 kcal
Protein 8–9 g
Carbohydrates 30–32 g
Dietary Fiber 5–6 g
Fat 0.5–1 g
Sodium 200–250 mg
Iron 1.8–2 mg
Calcium 20–25 mg
Vitamin C 10 mg (from vegetables)

Notes:

  • High in fiber, protein, and complex carbs.

  • Oil-free, low-fat, and highly digestible.

  • Soaking enhances nutrient absorption and reduces cooking time.

Millet Idli (Foxtail Millet & Moong Dal) Recipe

Servings: 4–5 idlis (medium size)

Preparation Time: 15 min (soaking + grinding)

Fermentation Time: 6–8 hours (summer), 9–10 hours (winter)

Cooking Time: 15–20 min (steaming)


Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Foxtail millet 10 g
Moong dal 30 g
Onion (finely chopped) 2 tbsp
Tomato (finely chopped) 2 tbsp
Green chili (medium, chopped) 1
Ginger (finely chopped) 1 tsp
Garlic (finely chopped) 1 tsp
Curry leaves 3–4 leaves
Fresh coriander 1 tsp (for garnish)
Salt to taste
Water as required for soaking, grinding, and steaming

Optional for chutney:

Ingredient Quantity
Grated coconut 2 tbsp
Ginger ½ tsp
Green chili ½ medium
Salt to taste
Roasted cumin seeds ¼ tsp
Curry leaves 2–3 leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soaking

  1. Wash foxtail millet 3–4 times.

  2. Soak millet in water: 5–6 hours in summer, 9–10 hours in winter.

  3. Wash and soak moong dal for the same duration.

Step 2: Grinding

  1. Drain soaked millet and dal.

  2. Grind together into a smooth batter, adding just enough water to achieve a pourable consistency.

Step 3: Fermentation

  1. Allow the batter to ferment in a warm place until it rises and becomes slightly airy:

    • 6–8 hours in summer

    • 9–10 hours in winter

Step 4: Prepare Idli Molds

  1. Lightly grease the idli plates or use a muslin cloth at the base to retain moisture and ensure softness.

  2. Pour fermented batter into molds (medium size).

Step 5: Steaming

  1. Add water to the idli steamer and bring to a gentle boil.

  2. Steam idlis for 15–20 minutes.

  3. Optional tip: Sprinkle a few drops of water over idlis during steaming to keep them soft.

Step 6: Check & Serve

  1. Insert a toothpick or fork – if it comes out clean, idlis are done.

  2. Garnish with fresh coriander.

  3. Serve with coconut chutney.


Coconut Chutney (Optional)

  1. Grind coconut, ginger, green chili, salt, roasted cumin seeds, and curry leaves into a smooth paste.

  2. Adjust water to achieve desired consistency.


Approximate Nutritional Values (per medium idli)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 55–60 kcal
Protein 2 g
Carbohydrates 10–12 g
Dietary Fiber 1.5 g
Fat 0.5 g
Calcium 15 mg
Iron 0.7 mg

Notes:

  • Low-calorie, high-fiber, and protein-rich breakfast option.

  • Gluten-free and suitable for all age groups.

  • Moong dal increases digestibility, while millet provides complex carbs and micronutrients.

Coconut Milk Kadhi (Oil-Free)

Servings: 2-3

Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes

Difficulty: Easy


Ingredients

Base & Spices

  • Fresh grated coconut – 20 g

  • Water – 100 ml (for coconut milk)

  • Millet flour – 2 tbsp (can substitute with any millet flour)

  • Cumin seeds – 1 tsp

  • Curry leaves – 6–8 leaves, fresh, torn

  • Onion – 20 g, finely chopped

  • Garlic – 5 g, finely chopped

  • Green chili – 1 medium, chopped

  • Spinach – 20 g, finely chopped

  • Turmeric powder – 2 g

  • Salt – 2 g

  • Lemon juice – 1 medium lemon (approx. 15–20 ml)

  • Water – 100 ml (for kadhi consistency)


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Coconut Milk

  1. Grind 20 g fresh grated coconut with 100 ml water to make smooth coconut milk. Set aside.

2. Roast Spices

  1. Heat a pan on low flame.

  2. Roast 1 tsp cumin seeds until aromatic.

  3. Add torn curry leaves and roast for 30 seconds.

3. Cook Aromatics

  1. Add finely chopped onion (20 g) to the pan. Roast on low flame until softened and natural oils release.

  2. Add garlic (5 g) and chopped green chili (1 medium). Sauté briefly.

  3. Add chopped spinach (20 g) and cook lightly until it softens.

4. Mix Coconut Milk & Millet Flour

  1. In a separate bowl, mix coconut milk with 2 tbsp millet flour, 2 g salt, and 2 g turmeric powder. Stir well to avoid lumps.

  2. Add 100 ml water to adjust consistency.

5. Combine & Cook Kadhi

  1. Slowly pour the coconut milk mixture into the pan with roasted aromatics.

  2. Stir continuously on low-medium heat to avoid sticking.

  3. Bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Final Touch

  1. Add lemon juice from 1 medium lemon. Adjust tanginess as per taste.

  2. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot.


Approximate Nutritional Values (per serving, serves 2–3)

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 120–140 kcal
Protein 3–4 g
Carbohydrates 15–18 g
Dietary Fiber 2–3 g
Fat 5–6 g (from coconut)
Saturated Fat 4 g
Sodium 300 mg (from salt)
Vitamin C 6 mg
Iron 1.5 mg

Notes:

  • This is a dairy-free, oil-free version of traditional kadhi.

  • You can adjust thickness by adding more or less water.

  • Add extra turmeric or lemon as per taste preference.

  • Millet flour provides a gluten-free alternative to gram flour.

Millet Pulao (Oil-Free) Recipe Card

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10 mins

Soaking Time: 5–6 hours (summer) / 8–9 hours (winter)

Cook Time: 25–30 mins


Ingredients

For Millet:

  • Proso Millet – 25 g (soaked for 5–6 hrs in summer / 8–9 hrs in winter)

  • Water – 75–100 ml (3–4x millet volume)

  • Salt – 1 pinch

For Vegetables:

  • Onion – 20 g, chopped

  • Tomato – 20 g, chopped

  • Carrot – 15 g, chopped

  • Cauliflower – 15 g, small florets

  • Green peas – 15 g

  • Capsicum – 10 g (optional)

  • Ginger – 2 g, finely chopped

  • Garlic – 2 g, finely chopped

  • Green chili – 1 medium, chopped

For Spices:

  • Cumin seeds – 1 g

  • Cumin powder – 1 g

  • Coriander powder – 1 g

  • Garam masala – 1 g

  • Salt – to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh coriander leaves – 1–2 tsp, chopped


Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Millet

  1. Wash the soaked millet 2–3 times.

  2. Add 3–4 times water in a clay or thick-bottomed pot.

  3. Cover and cook on low heat for 15–20 minutes until grains are tender but separate.

  4. Turn off the heat and allow residual heat to finish cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Roast cumin seeds on low heat in a dry pan until aromatic.

  2. Add chopped onions and cook slowly until they release natural moisture.

  3. Add ginger, garlic, and green chili; sauté lightly.

  4. Add chopped vegetables: carrot, cauliflower, peas, capsicum, and tomato. Stir occasionally.

  5. Add cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix gently.

Step 3: Oil-Free Cooking Technique

  1. Use a steaming plate or water-on-lid method: place a plate inside a pot with some water below to prevent sticking.

  2. Cover and steam the vegetables for 5–10 minutes until tender and cooked evenly.

Step 4: Combine Millet and Vegetables

  1. Add the boiled millet to the cooked vegetables.

  2. Mix gently to maintain separate grains.

  3. Steam together for another 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves on top.

  2. Serve hot as a wholesome, oil-free, nutritious meal.


Approximate Nutritional Values (per serving)

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 150 kcal
Carbohydrates 30 g
Protein 5 g
Fat 0.5 g
Fiber 4 g
Sodium 200 mg
Vitamins & Minerals Vitamin C (from vegetables), Iron, Calcium

Notes:

  • Adjust vegetables as per season or preference.

  • Ensure proper soaking of millet to reduce cooking time and enhance digestibility.

  • Using a clay pot or thick-bottomed pan helps maintain separate grains without sticking.

No-Oil Rajma (Kidney Beans Curry) Recipe Card

Ingredients (Serves 2)

Rajma & Soaking

  • Rajma (Kidney Beans) – 50 g (soaked 8–9 hours)

  • Water – enough for soaking & boiling

  • Salt – 2 g

Vegetables & Pastes

  • Onion puree – 2 tbsp

  • Tomato puree – 4 tbsp

  • Garlic paste – 1 tsp (optional)

  • Ginger paste – 1 tsp (optional)

  • Green chili – 1 (optional, for spice)

Spices

  • Cumin seeds – 1 g (roasted)

  • Cumin powder – 1 g

  • Coriander powder – 2 g

  • Garam masala – 1 g

  • Turmeric powder – 1–2 g

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh coriander leaves – 1 tbsp


Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soak and Boil Rajma

  1. Wash rajma 3–4 times.

  2. Soak for 8–9 hours (soaking improves digestibility).

  3. Drain and transfer soaked rajma to a pot.

  4. Add fresh water and 2 g salt.

  5. Boil rajma until soft (approx. 25–30 mins depending on bean age).

  6. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare No-Oil Tadka (Tempering)

  1. Heat a thick-bottomed or clay pot.

  2. Add roasted cumin seeds to the pot. Stir briefly.

  3. Add onion puree and cook on low heat. If needed, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent sticking.

  4. Add tomato puree and mix well. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.

  5. Add garlic paste, ginger paste, and green chili (optional).

  6. Add the measured spices: coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and turmeric.

  7. Add a splash of water, cover the pot, and let steam cook for 5–7 minutes on low heat.

Step 3: Combine Rajma and Masala

  1. Add the boiled rajma into the prepared masala.

  2. Mix gently to coat beans with the masala.

  3. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

  4. Check consistency—add water if needed.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

  2. Serve hot with rice, millet pulao, or chapati.


Approximate Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 180 kcal
Protein 8 g
Carbohydrates 30 g
Dietary Fiber 8 g
Fat 0.5 g
Sodium 400 mg
Iron 2.5 mg
Vitamin C 5 mg

Notes:

  • Cooking without oil reduces calories and fat while retaining nutrients.

  • Soaking beans is crucial for digestion and nutrient absorption.

  • Adjust spices and chili according to taste.

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