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Nutritionist-Revealed Secret: Wash Dal 3–4 Times, Soak Wisely & Cook to Perfection

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Dal is a staple in South Asian households—not just because it’s affordable and protein-packed, but also rich in fiber, micronutrients, and comfort. However, maximizing its benefits requires more than just boiling it. Nutritionists now emphasize a three-step prep process: washing, soaking, and cooking, to make dal more nutritious, digestible, and delicious.


Wash Thoroughly: Wash 3 to 4 Times Until Water Runs Clear

According to a nutritionist featured by India TV, the very first step is washing dal three to four times, rubbing gently with fingers until the rinse water is perfectly clear. This process eliminates dust, impurities, pesticide residues, and excess starch—laying the foundation for a cleaner, healthier dish


Soak Strategically: Tailor Soaking Time to Dal Type

Soaking isn’t optional—it’s essential for unlocking dal’s full potential:

  • Whole dals (moong, toor, urad): soak 4–12 hours (overnight preferred)
  • Split dals (moong chilka, masoor, toor): soak 6–8 hours
  • Hard legumes (chana, rajma): soak 12–18 hours

Benefits include:

  • Reduces compounds like phytates and lectins, enhancing mineral absorption and digestion Cuts down cooking time and ensures even texture

Optimal Water Ratios & Cooking Techniques

  • Stovetop method:
    • Masoor/moong: 3 cups water per 1 cup dal
    • Toor/chana: 3.5–4 cups water per 1 cup dal
  • Pressure-cooker method:
    • Use slightly less—around 2.5–3 cups water per cup of dal

Additional tips:

  • Add salt post-cooking to avoid toughening the dal
  • Allow natural pressure release to retain moisture and texture.
  • Finish by simmering if soupy, or thinning if too thick.

Enhance Nutrition & Flavor: Tempering and Ingredients

  • Use tempering (tadka) with cumin, mustard seeds, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and asafoetida to boost flavor and aid digestion
  • Optionally, finish with ghee, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon/tamarind for added nutrition.
  • Add leafy greens toward the end for extra vitamins and antioxidants.

Spice It Up & Final Touches

  • Don’t skimp on spices—turmeric, coriander, garam masala add depth
  • Adjust consistency post-cooking: simmer to thicken, add warm water to loosen.
  • Rest dal for a few minutes; it thickens upon cooling naturally.

Why This Method Matters

BenefitOutcome
Wash 3–4 timesRemoves impurities, starch, residues
Smart soakingImproves digestion, nutrient absorption, reduces gas
Proper water ratioIdeal texture without guesswork
Post-cook salt + simmerCreamy consistency, balanced flavor
Tempering & spicesFlavor enhancement, better digestion

TL;DR – Dal Cooking Checklist

  1. Wash dal 3–4 times until water is clear.
  2. Soak according to dal type (4–18 hrs).
  3. Rinse again, then cook with correct water ratio.
  4. Add salt after cooking, let rest.
  5. Finish with tempering and optional greens for flavor & nutrition.

By following this method, you’ll enjoy dal that is nutrient-rich, gut-friendly, and bursting with authentic flavor. It’s more than just a dish—it’s wholesome cooking at its best.

Avni Trivedi

Avni brings sparkle and depth to entertainment and lifestyle writing. Her stories span Bollywood, celebrity culture, fashion trends, and festive flair. She blends aesthetic sensibilities with real-world insights to create engaging and relatable content for modern readers.

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Dhwajarohan at Ram Mandir: Yogi Adityanath Calls It a New Era

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Dhwajarohan at Ram Mandir Marks Beginning of a New Era: Yogi Adityanath Speaks

New Delhi:
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the gathering at the Dhwajarohan ceremony at the Ram Mandir on Tuesday, November 25. The occasion saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat hoist the saffron flag atop the temple’s shikhar on Vivah Panchami, marking a significant milestone in India’s socio-cultural and spiritual journey.

Speaking at the ceremony, Yogi Adityanath described the event as “the beginning of a new era.” He said,
“Flag hoisting at the grand temple of Bhagwan Ram in Shri Ayodhya Dham is not the ‘Poornaahuti’ of a Yagya but the start of a new chapter. I thank PM Modi on this occasion on behalf of Ram devotees.”

The UP CM dedicated the day to the revered saints, warriors, and devotees of Lord Ram who had devoted their lives to the temple movement. He added,
“Faith did not bow down and did not stop. When the RSS gained power, one fearless voice rose: ‘Ram Lalla Hum Aayenge, Mandir Wahi Banaenge,’ ‘Lathi Goli Khaenge, Mandir Wahi Banaenge.'”

Yogi Adityanath also congratulated the Karma yogis who sacrificed their lives for the temple.
“This grand temple is a symbol of the faith and self-respect of 140 crore Indians. This flag is proof that the light of Dharma is eternal and the principles of Ram Rajya are timeless. When PM Modi became Prime Minister in 2014, the faith of crores of Indians found expression in this grand temple. This saffron flag represents Dharma, integrity, truth, justice, and Rashtra Dharma.”

The flag-hoisting ceremony symbolizes both the completion of the temple’s construction and the ushering in of a new chapter of cultural celebration and national unity. The saffron flag, a right-angled triangular banner measuring 10 feet in height and 20 feet in length, features a radiant sun representing Lord Ram’s brilliance and valor, the sacred Kovidara tree, and the Om symbol. Crafted from parachute fabric with silk threads, the flag embodies dignity, unity, cultural continuity, and the ideals of Ram Rajya.

Mounted on a 42-foot-high pole atop the 161-foot Shikhar, the flag is inspired by descriptions in the Valmiki Ramayana. Its triangular design represents the divinity, strength, and eternal spirit of Lord Ram.


Veer Rana

Veer Rana is a seasoned journalist with a sharp eye for current affairs and public policy. With in-depth knowledge in politics, economy, education, and environmental issues, Veer delivers fact-based, insightful content that drives understanding in complex domains. He also covers health and wellness under lifestyle, bringing credible and actionable advice to readers.

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Chia Seed Water vs Lemon Water: Which One Should You Start Your Day With?

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Why Compare These Drinks?

Chia seed water and lemon water are both trendy morning beverages touted for digestion, hydration, and wellness benefits. Here’s a deeper look at what each offers—and how they stack up.


Lemon Water: Simple & Effective

  • Hydration + Vitamin C: Expert gastroenterologists highlight its ability to enhance hydration with added antioxidants, helping with skin health, iron absorption, and nerve function
  • Gentle Digestive Support: Warm lemon water in the morning can gently stimulate digestion and saliva production, but detox claims often overpromise
  • Low-Calorie & Refreshing: Ideal for replacing sugary drinks—pleasant to sip through the day, especially with mint or cucumber
  • Mild Risks: Frequent consumption may erode tooth enamel; those with reflux should use a straw and limit intake

Chia Seed Water with Lemon: Fiber-Packed Superdrink

  • Rich Fiber & Gut Health: One or two tablespoons of chia seeds offer about 5–10g of soluble fiber, forming a gel-like texture that promotes regular bowel movements and supports digestion
  • Heart & Sugar Support: Omega‑3s, antioxidants, and fiber help regulate blood sugar, lower LDL cholesterol, and reduce inflammation
  • Satiety & Weight Management: The combination of fiber, mild protein, and lemon enhances fullness, reducing cravings between meals
  • Preparation Matters: Experts warn against dry-scooping—seeds must be soaked 15–30 min to expand; otherwise they may worsen constipation or cause gas
  • Safety Notes: Start with small portions; those on blood thinners, with IBS, or swallowing issues should consult a professional

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureLemon WaterChia Seed Water (+ Lemon)
HydrationExcellentEnhanced – chia retains water longer
Digestive SupportMild, natural stimulationStronger – fiber-rich gel aids bowel movement
Satiety / Weight AidLow to moderateHigh – fiber helps reduce hunger
Heart / Metabolic BenefitsVitamin C, antioxidantsALA omega‑3, antioxidants, blood sugar moderation
Ease of UseVery quick and simpleRequires soaking time and proper prep
Potential Side EffectsAcidic for teeth, may bother refluxBloating, gas, obstruction if under-soaked or sudden
Ideal ForHydration, immunity boost, sensitive stomachDigestive health, weight control, fiber intake

What Health Experts Say

  • Gastroenterologists and dietitians recommend chia water only when properly prepared—soaking is critical to avoid digestive issues
  • Dr. Will Bulsiewicz endorses the chia “internal shower” trend for relieving constipation when consumed safely
  • Lemon water is praised for hydration and immune support—but should be consumed mindfully to minimize enamel erosion and acidity effects

So, Which One Should You Start Your Day With?

Choose Lemon Water if you:

  • Seek gentle hydration, vitamin C, and an early digestive boost.
  • Have a sensitive stomach or citrus-related reflux.
  • Prefer low-maintenance, quick morning routines.

Opt for Chia Seed Water with Lemon if you:

  • Are targeting fiber-boosted digestion, constipation relief, or blood sugar balance.
  • Want greater satiety and support for weight management.
  • Are mindful of proper preparation and can tolerate the texture.

How to Prepare Chia Seed Lemon Water Safely

  1. Add 1–2 teaspoons (max 1 tablespoon) of chia seeds to 8–12 oz water.
  2. Let it soak 15–30 minutes to form a gel.
  3. Add juice from half a lemon, and stir.
  4. Drink on an empty stomach, followed with more plain water.
  5. Start slowly (half teaspoon), then increase if tolerated.
  6. Limit to 1–2 servings per day.
  7. Stay hydrated and consult your doctor if on medications or existing gut issues

Final Thoughts

Both lemon water and chia seed water offer unique benefits—but your best choice depends on your goals and tolerance:

  • For hydration, immune support, and easy digestion, start with lemon water.
  • To support fiber intake, regularity, and full-body nutrient absorption, chia water with lemon is ideal—but only if prepared mindfully.

Incorporate one—or both—into a broader healthy morning ritual that includes balanced meals, movement, and hydration for lasting energy and wellness.

Would you like a downloadable infographic, recipe video script, or social caption set for this topic?

Avni Trivedi

Avni brings sparkle and depth to entertainment and lifestyle writing. Her stories span Bollywood, celebrity culture, fashion trends, and festive flair. She blends aesthetic sensibilities with real-world insights to create engaging and relatable content for modern readers.

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Food

India Mocked Haldi Doodh, Now Buys It Back as ₹500 “Golden Milk” at Starbucks

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What we once giggled over as grandma’s old-fashioned haldi doodh is now marketed in cafés as “golden milk”—often at 25 times the original cost. Indians scoffed, then splurged. Here’s the full story behind this cultural comeback.


The Reality Check—₹20 to ₹500

A Mumbai branding founder highlighted a jarring truth: traditional turmeric milk—available in many homes for around ₹20 a cup—is now presented by global wellness chains like Starbucks under the name “golden milk”, costing approximately ₹500. That’s a 25× markup on a beloved staple

Her point goes deeper: “If we ignore our own traditions, others will capitalize on them—and we’ll buy them back at premium prices,” she warned


Golden Milk’s Global Glow-Up—and the Appropriation Question

Worldwide, #goldenmilk has become a trend. Cafés in major cities promote it as a wellness elixir—complete with latte art and Instagram appeal—while detaching it from its roots in Indian home kitchens

This trend has raised growing concerns about cultural appropriation, where a native remedy is decontextualized, rebranded, and commodified—with little credit to its origin


What Makes Haldi Doodh Special?

Ancient Comfort, Modern Science

  • Centuries-old remedy: In India, haldi doodh is a home remedy for everything from colds to sore joints, used across generations
  • Proven wellness benefits: Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. And combined with black pepper, its absorption improves dramatically—a trick grandma instinctively knew

Yet, science-based wellness brands simplify—often using plant-based milk or powder mixes—stripping away cultural context and the integrity of the tradition


Why the Irony Stings

  • Many Indians once regarded haldi doodh as outdated or “uncool.” Now they cheer for it once it’s foreign-labelled and sold at luxury prices
  • This isn’t just about paying more—it’s about cultural amnesia: our roots being erased unless repackaged by the West
  • Brands that launch turmeric-based wellness products often fail to credit the tradition, instead casting it as novelty rather than continuous heritage.

What We Can Do—Reclaim Now, Before It’s Too Late

  1. Celebrate “Haldi Doodh” by name
    Simple acts—like asking cafés to serve it under its original name—help reclaim the narrative.
  2. Educate and advocate
    Share how this drink passed down through generations supported wellness long before it became Instagram-worthy.
  3. Support local artisans and Ayurveda-based brands
    Prioritize authentic desi businesses that honour the recipe, not just profit from it.
  4. Intellectual and cultural awareness
    Demand credit and even legal protection—just like traditional knowledge patents—to prevent overseas reposting without acknowledgement

Final Sip—The Price of Disrespect

The ₹500 golden latte might feel indulgent today, but tomorrow? If we don’t speak up—and own our stories—next week’s ₹1,200 “ancient tonic” might already be marketed by someone else’s brand. As the Mumbai founder said: For decades we mocked the nuskhas… now we clap when they return with foreign branding.”
“If we don’t shape our own legacy… someone else will. Then our identity won’t feel like ours anymore.

Avni Trivedi

Avni brings sparkle and depth to entertainment and lifestyle writing. Her stories span Bollywood, celebrity culture, fashion trends, and festive flair. She blends aesthetic sensibilities with real-world insights to create engaging and relatable content for modern readers.

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