Kali Gajar Kanji 101 – Why You Should Try This Fermented Drink
Aanchal Gera
What is Carrot Kanji? Why must you try it? How is it made? More such questions answered in this post.
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Kanji is a winter special fermented drink, traditionally consumed in the northern belt of India. Kanji’s nutrient density makes it one of the staples of the season.
This article sheds light on the benefits, the best time to consume this ‘elixir’, how is it prepared, and more crucial information.
Table of Contents
Kanji’s Origin
Kanji is a carrot-based fermented beverage that originates from the Indian subcontinent. Initially prepared during the festival of Holi, Kanji is prepared with water, black carrots, mustard seeds, and asafoetida.
How Is Black Carrot Kanji Made?
Preparing Kanji food is not a complex process. Start with half a kilo of peeled, washed, and thinly sliced black carrots. In a glass container or jar, add these carrot slices with water and 60 grams of powdered mustard seeds, 80 grams of rock salt, and 50 grams of chilli powder.
Let this mixture sit under sunlight for it to ferment naturally.
Depending on the climate in your region, the fermentation will take 2-5 days. (lesser days in warmer regions, more in colder regions)
It is recommended to stir the mix twice everyday, and you’ll know this is ready for consumption when it turns sour and smells a little pungent.
PS- if black carrots aren’t available, you can switch those for red carrots and beetroot. 300 grams of carrots with 200 grams of beetroot make for a pretty decent substitute.
Now now, once the Kanji is ready, instead of discarding the soaked carrots, you can add them to your salads, wraps, or munch on them as a snack.
The Potential Health Benefits of Kanji
1. Promotes heart health
The antioxidant content in black carrot kanji helps to bring down the bad cholesterol levels over a period of time. It also keeps the cardiovascular system functioning well.
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2. Good for your Gut
This fermented beverage is an excellent probiotic that can boost metabolism, regulate bowel movement, and also prevent constipation. It is a good source of gut-friendly bacteria.
3. Your Skin’s best friend this Season
Kanji is a powerhouse of antioxidants that minimize the appearance of signs of aging. This has a high water content which helps keep the skin hydrated, enhancing the supple bounce. Kanji contains ample amounts of vitamin C that boost the collagen production and in turn increase elasticity.
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4. Strengthens Eyesight
Carrots, as we know, are the best source of anthocyanin. This compound doesn’t just improve vision but also enhances blood circulation which may help combat cataracts. Lutein is another compound that black carrots have which has another unique set of eye-protecting properties.
5. Delight for Diabetics
Kanji is a fibrous beverage as the key ingredient is black carrots. The high fiber content slows down digestion and absorption of meals, leads to stabilized blood sugar levels and prevent spikes, hence, keeps cravings at bay.
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There you have it! Not only is Kanji easy to prepare with tons of health benefits, but this beverage is a treat to the taste buds.
