Sattu – why is it healthy?

Sattu is a favorite among Biharis, and for good reason too!

Those living in Bihar would certainly have heard about sattu. In fact, it is one of those items that Biharis living in other parts of the country, always bring back home after a vacation in their native place. Even if some relative of theirs would be going, they will ask them to bring back some packets of sattu.

Sattu was  originally made of roasted gram flour but has now evolved to include other nutritious flours like barley, wheat etc. It is prepared in several ways including parathas, laddoos, litti chokhas and more variations.

Why is it healthy?

Sattu is a perfect blend of balanced nutrients and is prepared in one of the healthiest cooking methods – roasting. In this method, the nutrient value is retained and the shelf life of the ingredients are increased.

Its high fiber content makes it healthy for the intestines.

Having a low glycaemic index, is good for diabetics as well. Sattu also has cooling properties.

Here’s how you can prepare healthy Litti-chokha (contributed by a member on tarladalal.com):

A traditional dish of Bihar, Litti is an evening snack served with chokha made out of potato, brinjal and tomato.

Preparation Time: 30 mins

Cooking Time: 20 mins

Makes 6 to 7 pieces

Ingredients:

For Covering

2 cups wheat (gehun) flour

1/2 tsp carom seeds (ajwain)

2 tbsp refined oil

3/4tsp salt

2 tbsp of ghee

For Stuffing

1 cup roasted bengal gram flour

2 to 4 green chillies, finely chopped

1/2 tsp roasted cumin seeds (jeera)

Ginger (adrak) , finely chopped

1/2tsp finely chopped garlic (lehsun)

1/2 cup finely chopped coriander (dhania)

1 tsp dried mango powder (amchur)

1 tsp stuffed red chilly pickle masala

1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

1/2 tsp carom seeds (ajwain)

1 tbsp finely chopped onions (optional)

2 tsp mustard (rai /sarson) oil

water

salt to taste