‘ Sattu’ is a popular local energy – cum – cooling drink of north India, especially in the state of bihar where it is also nicknamed as ‘ desi horlicks ‘. It is a nutritious, easy to digest protein drink that keeps them healthy and high on energy through the hot summer months. The process of preparing sattu is ancient and according to Tibetan folk story ‘sattu’ is the oldest instant food used from The Plateau of Himalaya to the Basin Of Ganga. Travellers especially found it convenient to carry as no fuel, oil, or utensils were required for its preparation
Whether at home, or at work, sattu has always been used as a quick, easy to prepare filling meal which has to be just mixed with water and spices. Even today in small towns of Bihar and Bengal you can see it being sold as a refreshing drink prepared by street vendors.
.Sattu prepared by cleaning and roasting de-husked channa dal / gram which is then pulverized to convert it into a powder or flour form. It is very versatile and is also used as a filler for parathas etc
Method – you can mix 2 – 4 tsp sattu in a glass of water & add juice of ½ lemon, black salt, roasted cumin powder and some freshly chopped mint / coriander leaves
NUTRITION – In earlier days Indian physicians prescribed ‘sattu’ as one of the best food supplement to diabetics and athletes. It is said to be a cooling drink which is also helpful in relieving acidity and constipation.
PROTEIN – It is high in protein & it’s method of preparation makes it easy to digest.
FOLATE – Folate helps tissues grow and cells work. Taking the right amount of folic acid before and during pregnancy helps prevent certain birth defects, including spina bifida.
IRON –iron is needed to produce hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that makes it possible for them to carry oxygen to the body’s tissues, lack of which can make a person feel weak, tired, and irritable.
CALCIUM – Calcium is necessary for the growth and maintenance of strong teeth and bones, nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and secretion of certain hormones and enzymes.
MANGANESE – Manganese is used for weak bones (osteoporosis), a type of “tired blood” (anemia), and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
COPPER – Copper works with iron to help the body form red blood cells. It also helps keep the blood vessels, nerves, immune system, and bones healthy. Copper also aids in iron absorption.
DIETARY FIBER – dietary fiber helps digestion and prevents constipation.