Appetising winter warmers

Food for Thought
Winter brings a bounty of vegetables, fruits, and spices. Incorporating these into your diet ensures immunity-boosting, warmth-providing, and overall health benefits. “Must-have winter ingredients include warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, seasonal produce such as root vegetables, leafy greens, and citrus fruits, along with hearty staples like nuts, grains, and rich cheeses,” says Vijay Motiram Pawar, Sous Chef at Le Café.

When using winter ingredients, focus on their natural flavors and nutritional benefits. Seasonal produce like root vegetables and citrus pair well with warming spices for comforting meals. “Avoid overcooking delicate greens, as this diminishes their nutrients and flavor,” adds Pawar.

Nutrients Matter
Winter foods are nutrient-dense, helping the body adapt to colder months. Vitamin C-rich citrus fruits, antioxidant-packed leafy greens, and fiber-filled root vegetables support immunity, energy, and digestion. “Winter foods like stews, soups, and roasted vegetables provide warmth, comfort, and hydration,” says Jaswant Singh, Executive Chef, Heritage Village Manesar.

Eating seasonally promotes sustainability and freshness while supporting local farmers. Balanced winter meals, incorporating proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich staples like whole grains, ensure steady energy levels during shorter days.

Cook Right
Winter dishes benefit from slow cooking techniques such as braising, roasting, and stewing, which enhance flavors and textures. Combine root vegetables, beans, and greens with warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric for well-rounded meals. Preserve the season’s produce through freezing or canning for year-round enjoyment.

“Even though it’s colder, staying hydrated is essential. Soups and stews can help, but don’t forget to drink water. While indulging in hearty meals, balance your plate with vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats,” Singh advises.

Nature’s Bounty: Key Winter Ingredients

• Root Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, parsnips, turnips, and beets are hearty and nutrient-rich.
• Dark Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and collard greens are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K.
• Citrus Fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are immunity-boosting and at their peak in winter.
• Squash and Pumpkins: Rich in vitamin A and fiber, they’re perfect for soups and roasts.
• Cabbage: High in antioxidants and fiber, ideal for hearty dishes.
• Legumes and Beans: Protein-rich, perfect for stews and casseroles.
• Spices: Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and turmeric add warmth and depth to dishes.

Recipe: Winter Kale and Butternut Squash Salad
Ingredients:

• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 cup butternut squash, cubed
• 1 orange, segmented
• ¼ cup roasted sunflower seeds
• ¼ cup crumbled feta (optional)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast for 25-30 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, mix kale, orange segments, and sunflower seeds.
3. Whisk vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over salad and toss.
4. Top with roasted squash and feta. Serve fresh for a vibrant winter salad.

Hearty Winter Vegetable Stew
Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots and parsnips, chopped
• 1 sweet potato, cubed
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup kale, chopped
• 1 tsp thyme, rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Heat oil in a pot; sauté onion and garlic for 5 minutes.
2. Add carrots, parsnips, and sweet potato. Cook for 7 minutes.
3. Pour broth and tomatoes, and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
4. Add Brussels sprouts and kale. Cook until greens wilt.
5. Season and serve hot with crusty bread.

Paternity Leave: Embracing Shared Parenting

Daddy at Work
Paternity leave is gaining recognition in India as more companies like Microsoft, Starbucks, and Infosys implement policies to support new fathers. Sunil Sharma, Co-Founder of Kickstart Placements, highlights the shift away from traditional gender roles, stating, “Paternal leave strengthens bonds between parents as they share caregiving responsibilities.”

Bond Benefits
Shruti Shah, Founder of Holistic Mind Therapy, notes, “Paternal leave allows fathers to connect with their newborns, providing physical and emotional support to mothers.” Shared parenting responsibilities foster balanced household dynamics, challenge societal norms, and promote cooperative environments.

Legal Loopholes
India lacks uniform laws on paternity leave. Advocate Yash N. Jangam explains that leave policies depend on individual companies, except for Central Government employees who are entitled to 15 days of paternity leave under the Central Civil Services Rules, 1972.

The Way Ahead
While progress is being made, much remains to be done. Sunil Sharma is optimistic, saying, “More companies adopting paternity leave will not only benefit families but also improve employee satisfaction and productivity.”