healthy food Archives

July 24, 2026 By Urvi Gohil 2 Comments

Healthy Eating: Crispy Monsoon Corn Tikkis

The Big Question: Can you enjoy crispy monsoon snacks without compromising your health goals?There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of roasted corn during the rainy season. Whether it’s a steaming boiled cob or a smoky street-side bhutta, sweet corn has long been one of the highlights of the monsoon. But along with the rains come intense cravings for deep-fried pakodas, cutlets, and other indulgent snacks.

The good news? You don’t have to give up the crunch to make a healthier choice. These pan-roasted Corn Tikkis deliver the exact same satisfying texture and comforting flavours while using wholesome ingredients and significantly less oil than traditional deep-fried versions.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Corn Tikkis

These tikkis are not only delicious but also packed with ingredients that contribute to a balanced diet:

Supports Eye Health: Sweet corn contains lutein and zeaxanthin, two naturally occurring carotenoids that help support eye health and may contribute to protecting vision as we age.
Provides Dietary Fibre: Corn and added vegetables contribute dietary fibre, which supports healthy digestion and promotes satiety, helping you stay fuller for longer.
Adds Colour and Nutrients: Capsicum, carrots, and fresh coriander add colour, flavour, and a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall immune health.
A Healthier Way to Enjoy Comfort Food: Instead of deep-frying, these tikkis are pan-roasted using minimal oil, helping reduce the overall fat content while still achieving a perfect, crisp exterior.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Makes: 8 tikkis
Serves: 4

Ingredients

The Base

1 cup boiled sweet corn kernels (coarsely ground)
2 tbsp whole boiled corn kernels
½ cup mashed boiled potatoes
2 tbsp wheat rusk powder (for coating)
1 tsp oil (for roasting)

The Vegetables

2 tbsp finely chopped capsicum
2 tbsp finely chopped onion
2 tbsp grated carrot
2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander

The Flavouring

1 tbsp ginger paste
1 tsp green chilli paste (adjust to taste)
1 tsp red chilli powder
1 tsp coriander-cumin powder
½ tsp garam masala
Salt to taste
Chaat masala (optional)

Method

Step 1: Cook the Corn Mixture – Heat a teaspoon of oil in a non-stick pan. Add the ginger paste and sauté briefly. Add the coarsely ground corn and cook over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until most of the moisture evaporates. This helps prevent the tikkis from becoming soft or breaking during cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture – In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, whole corn kernels, cooked corn mixture, capsicum, onion, carrot, and fresh coriander. Mix well.

Step 3: Season – Add the green chilli paste, red chilli powder, coriander-cumin powder, garam masala, salt, and chaat masala. Mix thoroughly until everything comes together into a soft, pliable dough.

Step 4: Shape the Tikkis – Lightly grease your palms. Shape the mixture into evenly sized round tikkis (cutlets). Roll each one gently in the wheat rusk powder for a light, crispy coating.

Step 5: Pan Roast – Heat a non-stick tawa or pan and brush it lightly with oil. Cook each tikki for about 4–5 minutes per side over medium heat until golden brown and crisp.

Step 6: Serve – Serve hot with fresh mint chutney, a mint-yoghurt dip, or coriander chutney. (Skip sugary ketchup if you’re trying to keep added sugar low!)

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving – 2 Tikkis)

Calories: ~170 kcal
Protein: ~5 g
Carbohydrates: ~28 g
Fat: ~4 g
Fibre: ~4–5 g

(Values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

Healthy Variations & Swaps

Want to customise the recipe? Try these easy swaps:

Replace Potatoes With:

Sweet potato
Boiled raw banana
Mashed pumpkin

Add More Protein: These additions make the tikkis more filling while increasing the protein content:

Crumbled paneer or Tofu
Cooked quinoa
Boiled chickpeas (lightly mashed)

Gluten-Free Version: Replace the wheat rusk powder with:

Oats powder (certified gluten-free, if required)
Roasted poha (flattened rice) powder
Rice flakes powder

Air Fryer & Oven Methods:

Air Fryer: Cook at 180°C for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through.
Oven: Bake at 180°C for 18–20 minutes, flipping once for even browning.

Storage Tips

Perfect for quick weekday snacks!

Refrigerate uncooked tikkis for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Freeze shaped tikkis for up to 1 month. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before pan-roasting.

Healthy eating doesn’t mean giving up the foods you enjoy. Simple swaps—like pan-roasting instead of deep-frying, adding colourful vegetables, and choosing wholesome ingredients—can make traditional favourites more nutritious without compromising on taste. These crispy Corn Tikkis are proof that comfort food and healthy eating can go hand in hand.

Pro Tip: Cravings are easier to manage when you plan ahead. Track your meals on the GOQii App and connect with your GOQii Personalised Health Coach for customised snack ideas, healthier recipes, and nutrition guidance that fits your goals and lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is sweet corn good for weight management?

Yes. Sweet corn provides fibre that promotes fullness and contains important vitamins and minerals. Since it is a starchy vegetable, portion size remains important as part of a balanced diet.

Can I prepare these tikkis in advance?

Yes. Shape the tikkis and refrigerate them for up to two days before cooking. They also freeze well for up to one month.

Why are my tikkis falling apart?

The mixture may contain excess moisture. Cook the corn thoroughly before mixing to evaporate the water. If needed, add a tablespoon of roasted besan (chickpea flour) or oats powder to improve binding.

Can people with diabetes eat these Corn Tikkis?

Yes, in moderation. Since sweet corn contains carbohydrates, portion control is important. Pair the tikkis with a protein-rich accompaniment such as yoghurt or paneer and avoid sugary sauces. Individual dietary needs vary, so consult your healthcare provider or dietitian for personalised advice.

Eat Healthy and #BeTheForce

Disclaimer: This recipe is intended for educational purposes only. Nutritional needs vary from person to person. If you have diabetes, kidney disease, or other medical conditions requiring specialised dietary advice, consult a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes.

October 16, 2025 By Urvi Gohil 3 Comments

Healthy Diwali Recipe: Anjeer Ki Kheer

Before I begin with this amazing liquid sweet recipe, did you check out my healthy Diwali recipe on Dates Roll with Seeds? If not, do check and try it out. In this recipe, we’ll be preparing Anjeer (Figs) ki Kheer. If you like kheer, you will most definitely love this recipe. It is quick to prepare, rich in flavor and full of nourishment!

Let’s get started!

What You Will Need:

Almonds (Soaked and Peeled) – 10
Cashews (Soaked) – 10
Figs (Soaked) – 12
Almonds (Finely Chopped) – 5
Pistachios (Finely Chopped) – 5
Walnuts (Finely Chopped) – 5
Figs (Finely Chopped) – 2
Milk – 500ml
Saffron – 10-15 threads soaked in milk
Ghee – 2 tbsp
Jaggery Sugar / Coconut Sugar/ Jaggery – 2 tbsp

How to Prepare:

Soak the nuts for 3-4 hours.
After removing the soaked water, make a dry coarse paste of soaked almonds and cashews using a mixer. Remove it in a bowl.
Now, add the soaked figs along with 2 tbsp. of water and make a fine paste using a mixer, remove it in a bowl.
In a pan, heat 2 tbsp. ghee and add the coarse paste of almonds and cashews. Sauté it on low flame for 4-5 mins until the color has changed and it becomes aromatic.
Now it is time to add the figs paste to the pan. Sauté it continuously for the next 3-4 minutes.
Once done, add 500ml of milk and allow it to boil on medium flame for 5-6 minutes and add 2 tbsp. of jaggery sugar or jaggery to it.
Also add the saffron and chopped almonds, pistachio, walnuts and figs in the kheer.
Give it a boil and your Anjeer ki Kheer is ready to be served.

Highlights of the Anjeer Ki Kheer Recipe

Despite being a low calorie dessert, it still satisfies the sweet tooth.
Figs are a great source of antioxidants, calcium, iron, magnesium and copper.
This recipe is nutritious for pregnant women and children especially.

We hope you enjoy this Anjeer ki Kheer recipe just as much as we enjoyed writing it for you!

For more healthy recipes, check out Healthy Reads or ask a GOQii Coach directly by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

Stay Healthy and #BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.

February 11, 2025 By Navnee Garg Leave a Comment

Load Up On Carrots During Winter! Here’s Why!

We’ve often advised people to eat seasonal fruits and for good reason! Seasonal veggies are a good source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which are required by the body during winter. There are many vegetables but one of them, which is a must-have during these chilly days is the carrot! Carrots are one of the most loved vegetables not only in India but all over the world. The reason is very evident, it not only serves as a salad but a lot more than that. This orange-coloured root is an ultimate health food with many health benefits. Let’s explore the health benefits of carrots during winter!

Why You Should Eat Carrots During Winter

Carrots help you get beautiful skin and can help in protecting you from cancer, especially lung cancer. As the temperature drops, this crunchy & colourful vegetable gives you a boost of antioxidants too.
As a rich source of Vitamin A, it helps treat vision loss. So during winter, you can definitely ditch your Vitamin A pills.
The Vitamin A in carrots also help the liver secrete bile and flush out toxins in the body, acting as a Natural Detox.
Carrots contain high amounts of soluble fibers, which indirectly helps in managing cholesterol levels. No more guilt! You can easily binge on your favorite carrot cake during winter.
Carrots are infused with natural pesticides, Falcarcinol, which is anti-fungal in nature. It protects you from any kind of fungal diseases. If your kids eat carrots, you don’t need to worry about them catching any kind of fungal infection.
Carrots aren’t boring! There are many variations you can try with this root – be it dips, juices or soups – carrots are definitely a hit with your taste buds!
Carrot tops are enriched in nutrients such as potassium, phytonutrients and they also contain around 6 times more Vitamin C than what the root does.
Carrots have reserved their place in the list of the World’s Healthiest Foods. Undoubtedly, this crunchy root deserves it too.

Tips to Add Carrots To Your Diet

Soup It: Add grated carrots to your soups and clear broths to add roughage in diet
Crunch It: Raw carrots are enjoyed the best while soaking under the Sun during winters. Great way to boost up the vitamin quotient.
Lick It Up: Our very own Gajar ka Achar or Gajar ka Paani is every grandmother’s special recipe.
Bake It: The versatility of carrots gets it added even in bakery products. Add shredded carrot while baking muffins, cakes or breads to make a delightful dessert.

DO NOT throw away the carrot tops. Surprisingly, these carrot tops can be replaced with all the herbs in all kinds of dishes adding taste and Nutrition adequately.

We hope you’re all set to enjoy the crunch this season. Any more queries in mind? Please feel free to type them down in the comments section below, because, We Carrot about You!

For more topics on the health benefits of foods, check out Healthy Reads or ask a GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

Eat Health and #BeTheForce

November 25, 2024 By Tabassum Parveen 2 Comments

Food And Nutritional Guidelines for Healthy Kids

Every parent, at some point, has faced an issue with food and children. On one hand, children can be quite fussy about the food they eat and on the other, they need the right food and nutrition. How do you bridge the gap? How can you feed your children nutritious food and get them to like it too?

While every child has his/her own preferences, we will share the essential food groups that must be included in your child’s diet as well as food options you can choose to get your child on the right side of healthy!

Carbohydrates and Proteins

Grains are a good source of carbohydrates. They provide much-needed energy by children to carry out their day to day activities. We can get carbs from oatmeal, quinoa, millet, wheat bread and multigrain roti. This can be mixed with protein sources such as bread with peanut butter or almond butter, upma (cooked Semolina) with peanuts or Poha (flattened rice cooked) with a few dry fruits. Idli (steamed rice cakes) with sambar (vegetable curry) or roti (flat wheat bread) with dal (lentils) or beans or an egg sandwich can be opted for in order to make the meal nourishing.

Since proteins are the building blocks of the body, they promote growth and development. Kids need 1gm of protein for every kilogram he/she weighs. Few other examples of protein sources which you can opt for are peas, chicken, seafood, unsalted nuts and seeds.

Fruits

Fruits either in the morning or evening will give your kids a boost of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They will boost your child’s disease-fighting ability not just now but in the future as well. Keeping in line with the old adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”, try to incorporate at least one fruit in their meal.

Although, there are certain rules of eating fruit. It should not be consumed along with a meal or immediately after meals. This is because the fruit might rot when mixed with any food you have eaten. It is safe to consume them at snack time. You can add a few pieces of fruit in his or her lunch box or can give it separately so they can eat it with mini intervals.

Vegetables

Encourage your kids to eat veggies. We understand that it is difficult to get your children to eat vegetables. An option that you could explore is smoothies. Some greens with a dash of any fruit they like, mixed with jaggery or honey can be a delicious treat! You could also make sprouts salad, peanut salad or chicken salad with a few vegetables like corn, tomatoes, peas, carrot or a vegetable liked by your child.

Good Fats

Try to incorporate some good fats. Fats help in the development of the brain, nerves and eyes. Examples of good fat are nuts like almonds, pista, cashew nuts and peanuts. Avoid these if your child is allergic to any nuts. You can also include seeds like chia, basil and mix them with fruit juice. More examples of good fats include avocados, olive oil and canola oil. The best way to consume oils is by sprinkling them on salads and nuts. Seeds can also be sprinkled with the aforementioned oils. You can also add them to any sandwich or toast.

Focus on reducing junk and fast food which are high in sugars, fats and low in important nutrients. They are easily available and tempting but they increase the risk of obesity, juvenile diabetes, asthma and allergies. Always try to make your kid’s plate colourful and attractive.

Dairy

Dairy plays an important role in keeping your little one’s bones strong. To ensure that your child has stronger teeth and bones, add one or two cups of milk to their diet. If your child does not like milk, go for Greek Yogurt which is available in many flavours. In case your child is lactose intolerant, go for almond milk, soy milk or opt for lactose-free milk.

Water Intake

Lastly, keep an eye over your child’s water intake. Water helps in various bodily functions such as absorption and digestion of food as well as excretion. Lack of water may leave your child dehydrated. Do not opt for carbonated beverages. Avoid tea or coffee as they don’t need it at such a tender age. Yes, you can give them tea but ensure that it is herbal like chamomile or green tea. You can also opt for healthier options such as a ginger turmeric drink which will reap positive health benefits for your child.

We hope the food and nutrition guidelines above help you and your growing child. Do leave your queries in the comments below! For more on Children’s Health, check out Healthy Reads or speak to an expert by subscribing for GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce