Indian cuisine is known to be rustic and wholesome. The cuisine is characterised by the use myriad of spices, chillies, dairy products and traditional sweet ingredients that lend a subtle sweet flavour to its rich curries. Use of jaggery, or gur, (along with various herbs) is a popular tradition while cooking many Indian dishes. This is mainly because of the multiple health benefits that jaggery has, and, of course, the taste it adds to the dish.

Jaggery is one ingredient that is spread beyond just traditional desserts. Also considered as a healthier alternative to refined sugar, jaggery is loaded with vitamin C, iron and antioxidants – all of which help our body fight seasonal cough and cold. It is commonly eaten in winters as its properties keep us warm in the nippy weather.

The best part about cooking with jaggery is how beautifully it blends with other ingredients to give us delicious end results. Think of Zarda Pulao, Zaffrani pulao or Sonth ki chutney – there are a plethora of dishes that are known for their flavours and texture, all thanks to gur! If we talk about regional Indian cuisines, Gujarati food is known for its subtle sweet flavours and jaggery happens to be one of the most common reasons of that. In fact, down south, jaggery plays a significant role, not just in the traditional desserts but also in certain versions of Sambar.

(Also Read: 10 Best Jaggery Recipes)

Gur Ke Chawal Recipe:

Here we have a light lunch meal recipe that is prepared with two main ingredients – rice (chawal) and gur. Super easy and quick recipe, gur ke chawal has a few aromatic spices added to it like cardamom and clove that are added to soaked rice. It is then mixed with fresh jaggery powder with ghee and cooked in a pan for about 10-15 minutes. A lot of people do add a bit of milk and dry fruits on top of it for a rich and luscious look as well.

Click here for the full step-by-step recipe of gur ke chawal.

Gur ke chawal is an easy and healthier option for when you are having those sweet cravings. A quick lunch fix or when you are stuck with those hunger pangs.

Try it at home and let us know your experience in the comments section below.