Buttermilk

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups plain yogurt (preferably homemade or organic)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together plain yoghurt and water until smooth and well combined. Add roasted cumin powder, black pepper powder, grated fresh ginger, and Himalayan pink salt to the yoghurt mixture. Mix well. Chill the buttermilk in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance the flavours. Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Stir well before serving and pour into glasses.

Nutritional Value:

  • Buttermilk provides protein, calcium, and probiotics, which are important for maternal and fetal health during pregnancy.
  • Cumin and black pepper are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Ginger aids digestion, reduces nausea, and has immune-boosting properties.
  • Himalayan pink salt provides essential minerals and electrolytes.

Health Benefits as per Ayurveda:

  • Cooling Properties: Buttermilk is considered cooling in Ayurveda, which can help alleviate heat and acidity often experienced during pregnancy.
  • Digestive Aid: The combination of spices like cumin, black pepper, and ginger aids digestion and can help reduce common digestive discomforts such as bloating and gas.
  • Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial during pregnancy, and buttermilk provides both fluid and electrolytes to support hydration.

Dosha-Specific Tips

  • For Pitta Imbalance: Pitta dosha tends to be aggravated during pregnancy, leading to symptoms like heartburn and acidity. This buttermilk recipe, with its cooling properties and digestive spices, can help pacify excess Pitta.
  • For Vata Imbalance: To balance Vata dosha, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger to the buttermilk for additional warmth and digestive support.
  • For Kapha Imbalance: Use less yogurt and more water to create a lighter consistency, which can help balance Kapha dosha and prevent excessive mucus formation.

Tips and Ideas

  • Enjoy buttermilk as a refreshing drink between meals or as a light snack.
  • Experiment with different spices and herbs according to your taste preferences and dosha imbalance.
  • Listen to your body’s cues and adjust the recipe as needed to suit your individual needs and comfort level during pregnancy.