Amla’s magic in winter, perfect combination of health, immunity and taste

Amla is available in large quantities in the rural markets of Uttarakhand during the winter season. Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, this fruit is considered very effective in increasing immunity. It is produced in abundance in the fields and gardens of Bageshwar, Almora, Pithoragarh and Champawat of Kumaon region. Local people eat it raw with salt and pepper, while in many homes Amla juice, pickles and jam are also made. Ayurvedic physician Dr. Aizal Patel explains that regular consumption improves digestion and prevents seasonal diseases like cold and cough.

Amla juice is considered to be the most favorite home health drink in the winter of Uttarakhand. Consuming it on an empty stomach in the morning provides ample amount of Vitamin C to the body, which strengthens immunity. In rural areas of Bageshwar and Almora, people prepare juice at home by boiling and grinding Amla. It not only protects against infections, but is also helpful in giving glow to the skin and strengthening the hair. Regular consumption keeps cholesterol under control and stomach problems also reduce to a great extent.

Amla chutney is a favorite recipe of every household in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. This sweet and sour chutney not only enhances the taste of food but is also known as a health booster. This traditional chutney prepared by mixing amla, chilli, coriander and jaggery is rich in Vitamin C. Fresh Amla is easily available in the rural markets of Almora and Bageshwar. Local people include it in their daily food during winter. This chutney also helps in improving digestion and detoxifying the body.

As soon as winter arrives in Uttarakhand, the process of making Amla Murabba starts. This murabba with mild sweet taste is the favorite dish of everyone from children to the elderly. It is prepared on a large scale in the homes of Bageshwar, Champawat and Pithoragarh. Murabba is not only delicious, but is also considered beneficial in problems like anemia, weakness and lack of immunity. Women prepare it by drying it in the sun for several days. There is so much demand for it in winter that many shopkeepers in the local markets also sell ready-made murabba.

In hilly areas, Amla juice is consumed especially in winter. This traditional drink is not only delicious but also provides warmth and energy to the body. In Pithoragarh and Champawat, people prepare it by boiling Amla, mixing spices and jaggery. Pana is considered very beneficial for digestion and also helps in preventing cold and cough. Local women say that this natural drink can be easily given to children also. As soon as fresh Amla is available in the markets, it is started making it at home.

Amla candy has become quite popular in Uttarakhand in the last few years. This candy with sweet and sour taste is especially liked among children. Women groups of Almora, Bageshwar and Kausani are preparing it on a large scale and selling it in the local markets. Rich in Vitamin C, this candy is very effective in increasing immunity in winter. Candy does not spoil for a long time, so families store it and use it for months. This package is also a healthy alternative to junk food.

Amla pickle is being made for generations in the hilly homes of Uttarakhand. This traditional pickle is not only wonderful in taste, but is also considered a treasure of health. Women of Bageshwar and Almora prepare pickles by cutting Amla (Indian Gooseberry) and mixing it with mustard oil, spices and salt. The special thing is that pickle made properly does not spoil for a year. It enhances taste with food and supplies continuous supply of Vitamin C to the body. Due to increase in its demand in winter, fresh Amla pickle is sold in abundance in shops also.

Amla laddus are becoming increasingly popular as a winter superfood in Uttarakhand. In the houses of Kausani and Champawat, these traditional laddus are prepared by mixing amla powder, sesame seeds, jaggery and dry fruits. It is considered very beneficial in keeping the body warm, increasing blood and protecting from cold. It is also an excellent source of energy for children and the elderly. Now these laddus are easily available in local markets also. Amla Laddu is the easiest and tastiest source of natural antioxidants.