Roti is an integral part of Indian cuisine, often prepared for lunch or dinner in most Indian households. However, many nutritionists advise incorporating flatbreads made from various grains into the diet. This provides the body with essential elements such as fiber, protein, iron, calcium, and magnesium, while also diversifying the menu. Nevertheless, not all types of bread made from different flours are beneficial for everyone at any time of the year, as the body's needs change with the seasons.
This article presents a guide on which types of bread should be consumed depending on the time of year and which ones should be avoided.
In winter, millet-based food is very popular; it contains nutrients such as fiber, iron, and magnesium, and it also helps maintain a feeling of fullness for longer. It can be combined with vegetable dishes, soups, or dal, and adding a small amount of ghee enhances the flavor.
Corn flatbread is also a good option in winter. Corn is rich in fiber and other important nutrients. The corn flatbread gains a special taste when prepared with sorrel salad and a small amount of ghee in cold weather, and it can be included in the winter diet.
In summer, bajra flatbread is an excellent choice, as it contains calcium and fiber. It can be served with yogurt or a light vegetable dish. The flatbread has a light nutty flavor that is pleasant to taste.
During the summer period, it is also recommended to try sorghum flatbread, as it contains fiber and protein. If you prefer light and varied food in the summer, sorghum flatbread can be eaten with yogurt, chutney, or a light vegetable.
During the rainy season, you can try bajra flatbread. This type of flour contains many necessary minerals and is a gluten-free grain with a light nutty aroma. It is served with light vegetables or yogurt.
Additionally, during the rainy season, you can prepare chickpea flour flatbread (besan). Besan is considered a good source of protein, and the flatbread made from it turns out tasty. It can be eaten with yogurt, pickles, or vegetables. This is a good option if you want to diversify your daily diet consisting of wheat flatbread.
Wheat flatbread is the most common in Indian families and is suitable for consumption at any time of the year. It is an easy-to-prepare product that can be combined with dal, vegetables, yogurt, or various thick sauces. If you aim to add other grains to your diet besides wheat, you can try other types of flatbreads.
It cannot be claimed that one specific flatbread is best for every person. The choice of flatbread may depend on individual health conditions, digestive system, daily diet, and body needs. Therefore, it is preferable to include various grains in your diet according to personal needs and tastes, while maintaining a balanced diet.