Exploring the health benefits Khakhra: A low-calorie Indian delight

July 20, 2023 Rewynd Snacks

Venturing through the not so smooth route of health snacks available today, we often get overwhelmed by the noise produced by the labels promising 'low-fat,' 'high-protein,' and 'no added sugar.' However, let's take a serious route away from the beaten path all the way to the local streets of India, where a remarkable health snack treasure awaits us.

Allow me to introduce you to ‘Khakhra’ - a humble yet tasty gem of a snack. This low-calorie Indian delight isn't just a tongue-tickler; it's packed with an array of health benefits that make it a perfect choice for weight management and an exciting addition to our health snack menu.

What is Khakhra?

A Bit About Khakhra:

Khakhra is a famous Gujarati dry snack. It's like a crispy, thin cracker. They make it from whole wheat flour, a bit of salt, some oil, and water. They roll out the dough really thin and cook it on a hot flat pan until it's super crispy.

The Khakhra, at first glance, is a thin, crispy flatbread first born from the vibrant land of Gujarat. But the simplicity of these Indian snacks hides a treasure trove of taste and health. Made from wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, salt, and a touch of cooking oil, Khakhra's recipe is the epitome of authenticity and simplicity that makes it one of the best healthy snacking options. The result is a snack that resonates with a universal palate, crossing boundaries and winning hearts with every crunchy bite.

How Many Calories in One Khakhra?

One khakhra, which is about 8 inches wide and weighs 25 grams (like a big cookie), has around 119 calories. That's about 6 percent of the calories an average adult needs in a day, which is usually around 2,000 calories.

Here's where those calories come from:

Carbohydrates: These give you energy and make up most of the calories in a khakhra - about 60 calories.
Proteins: These help build your muscles and body - about 10 calories come from proteins.
Fat: There's a bit of fat too, which gives you some energy - it's around 49 calories.

Why Is It Good?

We like khakhra because it's made from 100% whole wheat flour. This whole wheat flour is excellent for folks with diabetes because it doesn't make your blood sugar levels jump too high. Plus, it's rich in something called phosphorus, which is good for your bones. So, it's not just a tasty snack; it's kind of healthy too.

How to Enjoy khakhra?

Khakhra is perfect with curds, chutney, or even with a dish like Jeera Aloo (cumin-spiced potatoes) or Methia Keri (spicy mango pickle). You can even crumble it and add it to your food for some crunch. Think of it as a crispy cousin of the regular roti or Indian bread.

So, when you snack on khakhra, you're not just having a tasty treat; you're giving your body a bit of energy and some healthy stuff too. It's like a little flavorful adventure in every bite!

Is Khakhra Healthy?

Absolutely, khakhra can be a healthy choice.

But why is Khakhra Healthy! Every food's healthiness is defined by its ingredients if it is not a Natural food. So for Let’s understand what the main ingredients of khakhra contain.

Whole Wheat Flour:

This is a great ingredient because it doesn't make your blood sugar levels spike, which is really good for folks with diabetes. It's also packed with something called phosphorus, which helps build strong bones. There's even Vitamin B9 in it, which is like a superhero for making new cells, especially those important red blood cells.

Ghee:

Ghee may have calories and fats, but it's not all bad.. It's rich in important vitamins like A, E, and K, which are like your body's bodyguards, protecting it from nasty stuff. Plus, these vitamins keep your skin looking good and healthy. Ghee can take the heat too, meaning you can cook with it at high temperatures without it getting all messed up.

Now, you might have heard about cholesterol - that's in ghee too, but your body actually needs a little bit of it for certain things like making hormones, keeping your brain sharp, and looking after your cells and joints. There's a cool thing about ghee - it's got something called medium-chain fatty acids (MCT), which can actually help you lose weight.

So, when you use ghee in small amounts, especially if you're watching your fat intake, it can be a healthy choice. Plus, you can even make your own ghee at home without any weird chemicals.

Just remember, like with everything, balance is key. So, enjoy your khakhra knowing it's not just delicious, but it's got some healthy stuff in it too. It's like a tasty way to take care of yourself!

Let’s look at some primary health benefits of Khakhra.

Health benefits of consuming khakhra

High in Dietary Fiber:

Khakhra is typically made from whole wheat flour, which is a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.

It can also help in managing and preventing digestive issues like bloating.

Weight Management:

Because khakhra is low in fat and contains fiber, it can be a satisfying, low-calorie snack option. Eating high-fiber foods like khakhra can help control appetite, reducing the overall calorie intake and supporting weight management.

Steady Energy Release:

Khakhra is rich in complex carbohydrates, which provide a steady and sustained release of energy. This can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevent energy crashes, making it a good choice for a midday or afternoon snack.

Nutrient Content:

Depending on the spices used, khakhra can provide various vitamins and minerals. Common spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric not only add flavor but also offer potential health benefits due to their vitamin and antioxidant content.

Gluten-Free Options:

For individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, gluten-free khakhra made from alternative flours like chickpea or rice can be a suitable choice. These options allow people with dietary restrictions to enjoy khakhra without issues.

Digestive Health:

The whole wheat in khakhra contains insoluble fiber, which adds bulk to your stool and helps it pass through your digestive system more easily. This can contribute to better overall digestive health.

Khakhra can be your best buddy in the snack world. Choosing khakhra is super easy because you don't need to give it a fancy treatment. No need to put it in the fridge – just toss it in your bag or keep it on your kitchen shelf.

Now, about flavors – khakhra is like a treasure trove of tastes. You can find it in so many flavors that it's like a flavor adventure every time you snack. If you're in the mood for something spicy, they've got it. If you want something savory, that's there too. And for those sweet cravings, they have options that are like dessert!

But here's where it gets even cooler. Khakhra isn't just a snack; it's like your kitchen's secret weapon. You can get creative with it. Ever tried making tiny pizzas with it? It's like having your own pizza party. Or use it instead of regular bread for sandwiches - it adds a whole new twist. And when you throw it in salads, it's like a crispy surprise that makes your salads way more interesting.

So, khakhra isn't just food; it's your best buddy in the kitchen, always ready to make your meals and snacks a lot more exciting! Which Makes Khakhra a Perfect Munching Snack.

What Makes Khakhra a Perfect Munching Snack?

Beyond its health benefits, Khakhra embodies versatility. Here's what makes it a perfect munching companion:

1. Variety is the Spice of Life:

Khakhra comes in a multitude of flavors. From traditional variants like methi (fenugreek) and jeera (cumin) to innovative ones like pizza and chocolate, there's a Khakhra for every mood and preference. Especially with Rewynd snacks, you get something for everyone. From spicy to tangy, we have got your covered for all.

2. Travel-Friendly:

Its lightweight, compact nature makes Khakhra the perfect travel snack. No mess, no fuss – just pure enjoyment.

3. Anytime, Anywhere:

Be it a quick breakfast, a midday munch, or a midnight craving, Khakhra is always up to the task. It's the 24/7 snack that never disappoints.

4. Mix and Match:

Khakhra plays well with others. Pair it with pickles, dunk it in yogurt, or top it with fresh veggies – the options are endless, making it the canvas for your culinary creativity.

In the exciting discovery of Indian snacks, Khakhra has indeed made a niche fanbase for itself, and rightly so. Its delicious crunch, coupled with its health benefits and role in weight management, earns it a spotlight in the world of healthy snacks.

It's a rare breed of snack that caters to the health-conscious without compromising on taste. Whether you're on a journey towards weight loss or just on the lookout for healthier snack alternatives, the humble Khakhra is poised to win your heart (and your taste buds!).

So, the next time you're exploring the aisle of health snacks, remember to reach out for Khakhra – your delightful, low-calorie Indian choice. Just remember, great health and tantalizing taste are but a Khakhra away!

Through this casual and quirky exploration, we hope we've shaped your appetite for healthier choices and a more adventurous culinary journey. So until next time, keep snacking, keep exploring, and stay healthy, for there's a world of flavors out there waiting to be discovered!

FAQs:

Is khakhra snack good for health?

Khakhra can be a healthy snack option when consumed in moderation. It is typically made from whole wheat flour and various spices, making it a source of dietary fiber and some nutrients. However, the healthiness depends on the ingredients used and how it's prepared. Always check the ingredient list for any unhealthy additives and consume it as part of a balanced diet.

How to eat khakhra?

Khakhra can be eaten as a standalone snack or accompanied by various toppings or spreads. You can spread chutney, pickle, or yogurt on it, or even use it as a base for making mini pizzas with your favorite toppings. It's a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in multiple ways.

Are Khakhra made of maida?

Traditional khakhra is not made from maida (refined wheat flour). It is typically made from whole wheat flour and various spices. However, there might be variations available in the market that could use maida, so it's important to read the ingredient label if you're looking for whole wheat options.

Can I eat khakhra for weight loss?

Khakhra can be a part of a weight loss diet if consumed in moderation and as a part of a balanced meal plan. It's relatively low in calories and can provide a satisfying crunch. However, weight loss is determined by your overall caloric intake and the quality of your diet as a whole.

How many calories are there in Khakhra?

The calorie content of khakhra can vary based on its size, thickness, and ingredients used. On average, a plain wheat khakhra can have around 50-80 calories per piece. Flavored or filled khakhras might have slightly more calories due to added ingredients.