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Protein Rich Foods for Pregnancy

protein rich foods for pregnancy. vegetarian high protein foods for pregnancy. Additional protein, i.e., at least 78 gm of protein per day is required during Pregnancy for the rapid growth of the foetus, for the enlargement of the uterus, mammary glands and placenta, formation of amniotic fluid and storage reserves for labour, delivery and lactation.

Besides this, protein is also required to build strong bones and teeth (which start growing at about eight weeks). So, ensure that you get enough protein throughout your pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters, when your baby is growing more rapidly.

4 major protein rich foods sources are:

1.  Dairy products like milk, curds, paneer, cheese and buttermilk.

2. Pulses and lentils like moth beans (matki), kidney beans (rajma), bengal gram (chana), etc. (Try sprouting them to increase the calcium and protein content, and ease digestion).

3.  Vegetables such as green peas, broccoli.

4.  Nuts and oilseeds like sesame seeds (til), almonds, walnuts, cashew nuts, etc.

Protein Rich Foods for Pregnancy, Snacks

Moong Dal and Paneer Tikki are marvelous mix of moong dal and paneer with ragi flour and spices lends itself to the preparation of tasty, protein-packed tikkis that please the palate and maintain your bones cells. Multiflour Idli is easy to make and has a fabulous, rustic flavour and interesting texture that you will enjoy thoroughly at any time during gestation. When you are too lazy to cook on summer evenings try your hands on this quick and easy to make Fruit and nut milkshake, a perfect evening snack for pregnant women. With 7.7 gm of protein per glass, this energy and nutrient dense drink will surely boost the growth of the foetus. You can have this Poha Phirni which is a rich source of calcium, iron and riboflavin.

Protein Rich Foods for Pregnancy, Lunch Recipes

Panchmel Dal is a wholesome combo of five dals is flavoured with a special masala water and whole spices as well! Not only the flavours of the spices, but the flavours of the assorted dals are also discernable in this delightful dish. Have it with your favourite roti or paratha to enhance its protein value. Cook this Bajra and Moong Dal Khichdi when you are bored with the same old rice khichdi. This is a traditional Rajasthani recipe that we discovered is an excellent source of protein, iron, folic acid and fibre. Its creamy consistency and mild flavours make it a good recipe to have especially in the preconception period and first trimester. Paneer and Tomato in Green Gravy is so tempting to look at and is sure to make you drool. Paneer and curds used in this recipe give you vitamin B2 along with protein and calcium while the tomatoes lend folic acid for the development of your baby’s brain.

Enjoy all our protein rich foods for pregnancy. Explore more varieties in our pregnancy section everyday. 

Pregnancy Iron Rich Foods Recipes

Pregnancy Calcium Rich Recipes

Pregnancy Fiber Rich Recipes

Pregnancy Vitamin A Rich Recipes


The aromatic flavours of this traditional South Indian dish are truly irresistible. The speciality of this sambhar is that it is made with minimal oil and loads of vegetables which enhance its nutritive value. When served hot with Nutritious Stuffed Idlis, it makes a meal that is very hard to resist. Alternatively, relish this sambhar with steamed rice to make a wholesome meal.

paneer tikka roll recipe | paneer tikka frankie recipe | paneer roll recipe | paneer wrap | with amazing images. paneer tikka roll recipe | paneer tikka frankie recipe | paneer roll recipe | paneer wrap. These rolls are a healthy version and make a complete meal by themselves. Learn how to make paneer tikka frankie recipe. Tikka Roll is a famous street food that comes from Kolkata and West Bengal. Tikka Roll is a wrap containing a filling and is rolled in Indian chapatti. We have put paneer tikka in the wrap to make a yummy paneer tikka roll. Paneer tikka is an Indian dish made with marinated paneer, onions and capsicum grilled on a non-stick pan or a tandoor. paneer roll recipe is marinated and cooked paneer and vegetables rolled in a Indian chapatti. The chapatis have been made with whole wheat flour which is a good source of iron and fibre as compared to the usual plain flour (maida) rotis. The paneer and vegetable filling enriches these rolls with essential vitamins and minerals and the calcium packed marinade adds that extra 'zing' to this recipe Tips to make paneer tikka kathi roll: 1. You can used leftover rotis to make this recipe. 2. You can also use mustard oil for marination for better taste and flavor. 3. Coats the paneer pieces in the marination gently using a spatula so that the paneer pieces wont break. 4. You can also pack these rolls for tiffin. 5. If you wish you can add kashmiri red chilli powder in the marination, it gives beautiful colour to the marinade. Enjoy paneer tikka roll recipe | paneer tikka frankie recipe | paneer roll recipe | paneer wrap | with detailed step by step images.

turai moong dal recipe | healthy ridge gourd moong dal | turiya mag ni dal | with 33 amazing images. Dive into a warm and nourishing bowl of ridge gourd moong dal for a taste of pure goodness. Learn how to make turai moong dal recipe | healthy ridge gourd moong dal | turiya mag ni dal | healthy ridge gourd moong dal is a nourishing dish that blends the mild sweetness of ridge gourd with the protein-packed benefits of moong dal. turai moong dal is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines the soft, spongy texture of turai (ridge gourd) with the wholesome goodness of moong dal. This simple turiya mag ni dal is packed with nutrients and flavor. Moong dal, a type of split green lentil, offers a complete protein source, keeping you feeling energized. The star of the show, ridge gourd (turai), boasts a surprising amount of vitamin C and dietary fiber, aiding digestion and immunity. Cooked together, they create a creamy and flavorful base. A touch of turmeric adds not only a vibrant yellow hue but also anti-inflammatory properties. This healthy ridge gourd moong dal is a wholesome and satisfying meal, perfect for those seeking healthy and delicious comfort food. Enjoy turai moong dal with steamed rice or whole wheat roti, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and balanced meal. pro tips to make turai moong dal: 1. You can grate the turai for a quicker cook and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. 2. For a creamier dal, whisk the cooked dal. This will thicken the dal naturally. 3. Experiment with chopped fresh fenugreek leaves or a sprinkle a little kasuri methi for a unique flavor. 4. Instead of moong dal you can use toor dal or masoor dal to make this recipe. Enjoy turai moong dal recipe | healthy ridge gourd moong dal | turiya mag ni dal | with detailed step by step photos.

cucumber pachadi recipe | Kerala style vellarika pachadi | Indian cucumber pachadi without coconut | with 25 amazing images. cucumber pachadi recipe | Kerala style vellarika pachadi | Indian cucumber pachadi without coconut can be served as an accompaniment to Bisi Bele Bhaat, Chitrana Rice and South Indian Stir Fry Rice. To make cucumber pachadi, heat 2 tsp of coconut oil in a deep non-stick kadhi, add the ginger and onions and sauté on a medium flame for 2 minutes. Add the cucumber, green chilli and 1 tbsp of water, mix well and cook on a medium flame for 4 minutes, while stirring occasionally. Transfer into a bowl and keep aside to cool completely. Once cooled, add the curds and salt and mix well. Keep aside. Heat the remaining 1 tsp of coconut oil in a small non-stick pan and add the mustard seeds. When the seeds crackle, add the curry leaves, red chilli and onions and sauté on a medium flame for 2 minutes. Add the tempering over the cucumber-curds mixture and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve chilled. A semi-spicy cucumber raita made in a typical South Indian style, with sautéed onions, green chillies and an aromatic tempering. This Kerala style vellarika pachadi is a special one, with tongue-tickling flavours and ingredients of assorted textures. Using fully-cooked onions and semi-cooked ones (along with the tempering) gives two different textures and flavours to this refreshing Indian cucumber pachadi without coconut. Make sure you add the curds to the sautéed veggies only after the mixture is completely cool. Otherwise the curds will get watery and ruin the creamy consistency of the cucumber pachadi. Tips to make cucumber pachadi. 1. Use fresh curd for better taste. 2. You can add ½ tsp sugar to balance out the flavour. 3. You can add urad dal or chana dal in the tempering. Enjoy cucumber pachadi recipe | Kerala style vellarika pachadi | Indian cucumber pachadi without coconut | with step by step photos.

sultani dal recipe | Indian dal sultani | healthy moong dal sultani | zero oil dal | with 31 amazing images. sultani dal recipe | Indian dal sultani | healthy moong dal sultani | zero oil dal is a simple everyday wholesome fare. Learn how to make Indian dal sultani. Even commonly consumed dals rock when combined intelligently with the right ingredients! Garlic and tomatoes add tang and taste to this versatile Indian dal sultani, which is made with a combination of moong dal and toovar dal. Everyday spices along with a generous sprinkle of coriander adds on to its aroma and flavour. The dals are a source of protein which work to protect cell and tissues of the body. Folic acid content of moong dal is an added benefit to this dal. Tomatoes and garlic, on the other hand, lend antioxidants like lycopene and allicin respectively which helps protect our heart. The healthy moong dal sultani is thus a wise pick for not only heart patients, but also for diabetics. The zero oil dal suits a weight loss menu as well. Serve it with Bajra and Cauliflower Roti to make a satiating meal. Tips for dal sultani. 1. If you are serving the dal later, we recommend you to adjust the consistency of dal by adding water while re heating. 2. You can increase the proportion of green chillies according to your spice. 3. You can also add 1 tsp lemon juice in the dal for the tangy flavour. Enjoy sultani dal recipe | Indian dal sultani | healthy moong dal sultani | zero oil dal | with step by step photos.

sprouted vaal ki usal recipe | iron rich Maharashtrian usal | healthy pregnancy Indian usal recipe | with 41 amazing images. sprouted vaal ki usal recipe | iron rich Maharashtrian usal | healthy pregnancy Indian usal recipe is a sabzi with a perfect blend of sweet, spicy and sour flavours. Learn how to make iron rich Maharashtrian usal. To make sprouted vaal ki usal, heat the oil in a non-stick kadhai and add the cumin seeds. When the seeds crackle, add the asafoetida, curry leaves and ginger and sauté on a medium flame for a few seconds. Add the onions and sauté on a medium flame for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the sprouted vaal, 2½ cups of water, turmeric powder, chilli powder, kokum, jaggery, salt and coriander and mix well. Bring to boil for 3 minutes and then cover with a lid and cook on a medium flame for another 10 to 12 minutes or till the vaal is cooked, while stirring occasionally. Serve hot. A traditional Maharashtrian preparation made healthier using sprouted vaal. Apart from boosting the nutrient content, sprouting the vaal also makes it easier to digest, making this a dish suitable for young and old alike. With many a flavourful ingredient, this iron rich Maharashtrian usal is a treat for your taste buds. Moreover, the use of kokum and jaggery in the preparation not only ensures a super tangy flavour, but also increases the iron content. A thoughtful addition of vitamin C rich coriander improves the absorption of iron. Serve this healthy pregnancy Indian usal recipe with phulka or oats roti to make a complete satiating meal. Heart patients can also add this sprouted vaal ki usal to their list of healthy foods without any guilt. This amazing culinary treat can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The fibre in the sprouted vaal can help to manage blood cholesterol levels. However, weight watchers and diabetics are advised to avoid the use of jaggery. Tips for sprouted vaal ki usal. 1. You can add chilli powder instead of Malvani masala. 2. This is the Malavani masala we used. Enjoy sprouted vaal ki usal recipe | iron rich Maharashtrian usal | healthy pregnancy Indian usal recipe | with step by step photos.

chickpea, broccoli and carrot stir fry recipe | chickpea vegetable salad | protein rich Indian chickpea sabzi | with 25 amazing images. chickpea, broccoli and carrot stir fry is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines vibrant vegetables and protein-rich legumes. This stir-fry not only offers a plethora of health benefits but is also quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep. Benefits of chickpea, broccoli and carrot stir fry Chickpea : Kabuli Chana which is used popularly in Chole in India is a complex carbs which prevents surges in blood sugar levels and is good for diabetics. broccoli : Broccoli is loaded with beta-carotene which converts to vitamin A once it is inside the body. Vitamin A plays a critical role in maintaining healthy vision. Carrots : Carrots are great for the eyes.They relieve constipation, high blood pressure, have fibre and lower cholesterol. The chickpea, broccoli and carrot stir fry is a super interesting way to top up your protein stores. It has varied textures, from the mealy texture of kabuli chana to the crunch of sautéed veggies, not to forget the fabulous aroma and flavour of sesame seeds. This chickpea, broccoli and carrot stir fry is a delightful way to incorporate more vegetables and plant-based protein into your diet. With its colorful presentation and variety of textures, it's a dish that appeals to both the eyes and the palate. Plus, it can easily be modified with other vegetables or spices to suit individual preferences. Enjoy the blend of flavors while nourishing your body with this easy and wholesome meal! chickpea, broccoli and carrot stir fry can be chilled and served as a healthy salad. Pro tips for chickpea, broccoli and carrot stir fry: 1. Add 2 tsp sesame seeds (til). Sesame seeds add a nutty and slightly bitter flavor that complements the other ingredients in the stir-fry. These tiny white seeds are indeed a good source of protein. Enjoy chickpea, broccoli and carrot stir fry recipe | chickpea vegetable salad | protein rich Indian chickpea sabzi | with step by step photos.

how to make paneer with cow's milk recipe | cow milk paneer | paneer from desi cow milk | cow milk paneer nutrition | with 30 amazing images. how to make paneer with cow's milk recipe is a slightly low-fat alternative to full fat paneer. Learn how to make Indian paneer from desi cow milk. When making paneer from desi cow milk, it is lower in calories and fat compared to that made of buffalo milk. This yummy cheese is also gifted with a great nutritional profile. Notably, it is yet a rich source of protein and calcium! You will get the same colour, texture and smooth and soft paneer with cow’s milk. This is a good choice for calorie conscious people. To make paneer with cow's milk, put the milk to boil in a large pan, while stirring occasionally. When it starts boiling, add the lemon juice gradually, while stirring gently to curdle the milk. Once the milk has curdled, switch off the flame and wait for 2 minutes. Strain it using a muslin cloth. Discard or store the whey. Place the muslin cloth with the chenna in a bowl of fresh water and wash it 2 to 3 times. If you want a solid paneer, place the paneer into the muslin cloth in a 125 mm. (5”) paneer mould or any mould. Press it with a lid and put a water filled jar or bowl on it to get the pressure. Alternatively, use a colander and put the paneer (along with the muslin cloth) into it. Put approx. 1 kg of weight on a plate and place this over the paneer. Remove the paneer from the muslin cloth and after 1 to 2 hours. Cut into even sized cubes gently using a sharp knife and use as required. Paneer or cottage cheese is a type of fresh cheese that’s believed to have originated in the Indian sub-continent. It is used widely in Indian, oriental, continental and other cuisines because of its irresistibly soft mouth-feel, comforting flavour and versatility. Cow milk paneer can be made easily at home, and this homemade paneer not only tastes much better but is also more economical than store-bought ones. Making paneer with cow's milk is the same as made from buffalo’s milk. You can use this homemade paneer in various forms like cubed, crumbled or grated, to make subzis, Parathas, mithai, and more! Tips to make paneer with cow's milk. 1. Do not miss out on adding little water at the bottom of the pan. This prevents the milk from burning. 2. Ensure milk is hot before adding the lemon juice. 3. If the milk doesn’t curdle, add one more tsp of lemon juice. Enjoy how to make paneer with cow's milk recipe | cow milk paneer | paneer from desi cow milk | cow milk paneer nutrition | with step by step images below.

bajra and moong dal khichdi recipe | bajra and moong dal khichdi for pregnancy | healthy bajra and moong dal khichdi | iron rich bajra khichdi for pregnancy | how to make bajra khichdi in pressure cooker | with 21 images images. bajra and moong dal khichdi is an iron and fibre rich one dish meal which is sure to please one and all. Making healthy bajra and moong dal khichdi is very simple. Learn how to make bajra khichdi in pressure cooker in 20 minutes. To make iron rich bajra khichdi what pairs with whole bajra is yellow moong dal. While you can substitute it with green moong dal, the yellow moong dal lends a more delightful taste. But before mixing the 2 ingredients Making this traditional bajra and moong dal khichdi is very simple. Soak he bajra for about 8 hours, drain and combine it with moong dal. Then pressure them with enough water and finally top it with a tempering. Obese people can rely on this khichdi as a fiber-filled one dish meal which is a replacement to rice delicacy. The creamy consistency and mild flavours make healthy bajra and moong dal khichdi a good choice for pregnant women too throughout all 3 trimesters. It’s a nourishing option to opt during the pre-conception stage too when you want to build your iron reserves. You can even perk up this iron rich bajra khichdi for pregnancy by adding some spices to it and maybe even throw in some vegetables for more fiber and antioxidants. If you add vegetables do so while pressure cooking and remember to adjust the amount of water added for cooking. Enjoy bajra and moong dal khichdi recipe | bajra and moong dal khichdi for pregnancy | healthy bajra and moong dal khichdi | iron rich bajra khichdi for pregnancy | how to make bajra khichdi in pressure cooker | with step by step photos.

toor dal fry recipe | restaurant style toor dal fry | toor dal fry with rice | toor dal tadka | with 32 amazing images. toor dal fry recipe | restaurant style toor dal fry | toor dal fry with rice | toor dal tadka is a thoughtful combination of everyday ingredients that come together in the form of a tadka to give this dal a thoroughly enjoyable flavour that lingers on the palate for a long time. Learn how to make restaurant style toor dal fry. We have used a combination of toor dal and masoor dal to give this restaurant style toor dal fry a perfect texture and mouth-feel. The dals are a good source of protein. Serve them to kids, adults and senior citizens to nourish cells of the body. The protein along with fibre from dal also satiates you for a long time thus giving a feeling of satiety. Also B vitamins from dals help in energy metabolism. To make toor dal fry, combine the dals, 2½ cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt in a pressure cooker, mix well and pressure cook for 2 whistles. Heat the ghee in a deep non-stick kadhai, add the mustard seeds, nigella seeds, cumin seeds and onions and saute for 2-3 minutes. Saute the ginger, garlic and green chillies for 1-2 minutes. Add the kashmiri red chilli, curry leaves and sauté on a medium flame for 2-3 minutes. Add the tomatoes and ¼ cup of water, mix well and cook on a medium flame for 2 to 3 minutes, while stirring occasionally. Add chilli powder and a pinch of asafoetida and cook for about 1 minute. Add the cooked dal mixture and ¼ cup of water, mix well and cook on a medium flame for 3 to 4 minutes, while stirring occasionally. Add the garam masala, mix well and cook for 1-2 minutes. Serve the dal fry with toor dal immediately garnished with coriander. The aroma of toor dal tadka tingles your nostrils, while the flavour teases your taste buds – so enticing is this dal that it is hard to believe that it is simple, everyday fare made with the commonest ingredients! One of the most popular dals, the toor dal fry is seen in most restaurant and wedding spreads. It can also be carried in the dabba to enjoy a healthy and tasty meal at work or in school. You can serve the dal fry with toor dal with rotis, parathas, naans, plain steamed rice or jeera rice. It is simple and easy to cook, but gives irresistible results, so do give it a try! Tips for toor dal fry. 1. Remember to soak the masoor dal well in advance before cooking. 2. Add the flavouring ingredients in the order mentioned in the recipe, to get the best flavour and aroma. 3. Diabetics and heart patients can also enjoy this dal provided only 1 to 2 tsp of ghee is used in the tempering. Enjoy toor dal fry recipe | restaurant style toor dal fry | toor dal fry with rice | toor dal tadka | with step by step photos below.

paneer tamatar paratha recipe | healthy tomato paneer paratha | stuffed tomato paratha | with 28 amazing images. paneer tamatar paratha is an interesting variation of the paneer paratha with the zest and tang of tomatoes. Paneer is a weight-watchers delight. It is high in protein and low in carbs. In tomato paneer paratha we have used low fat paneer to restrict the amount of fat. If you wish you can use regular paneer also. Benefit from the protein as well as calcium paneer lends. The tomatoes and capsicum used in the stuffing of these healthy paratha are a good source of antioxidants vitamin A, Vitamin C , lycopene and capsaicin. All this together will boost your immunity and also protect and maintain the lining of the heart. They also add glow to your skin and prevent wrinkles. To make paneer tamatar paratha, knead a semi soft dough of wheat flour, salt and little oil first. Then combine paneer, capsicum, tomatoes, green chillies, coriander and salt and make the stuffing. Divide dough and stuffing into 10 equal portions. Roll a portion of the dough into a 150 mm. (6”) diameter circle using a little wheat flour for rolling. Spread a portion of the stuffing on half of the circle and fold it over to make a semi-circle. Heat a non-stick tava (griddle) and cook the paratha, using ¼ tsp of oil, till golden brown spots appear on both the sides. Repeat steps 3 and 4 to make 9 more parathas. Serve paneer tamatar paratha immediately. Minimum oil has been used to knead the dough and cook the stuffed tomato paratha, making it a weight-watchers delight. The fiber in it also suitable for diabetics to manage their blood sugar levels. Tips for paneer tamatar paratha. 1. Use fresh and soft paneer for this recipe. Dry paneer might not bind the veggies well. 2. Make the stuffing just before rolling and cooking, else it might release water and make the stuffing moist. This will further make rolling difficult. 3. Serve it immediately for best flavour and texture. Enjoy paneer tamatar paratha recipe | healthy tomato paneer paratha | stuffed tomato paratha | with recipe below.

palak pachadi recipe | South Indian spinach raita | spinach yoghurt raita | with 22 amazing images. palak pachadi recipe | South Indian spinach raita | spinach yoghurt raita is a totally refreshing accompaniment. Learn how to make South Indian spinach raita. To make palak pachadi, heat the coconut oil in a small broad non-stick pan, add the spinach and saute on a medium flame for 3 to 4 minutes. Keep aside to cool. Transfer the spinach into a bowl. Add curd, green chillies, peanuts, chaat masala, sugar and salt and mix well. For the tempering, heat the oil in a small non-stick pan and add the mustard seeds. When the seeds crackle, add the urad dal and curry leaves and saute on medium flame for 30 seconds. Pour the tempering over the spinach-curd mixture. Mix well and refrigerate for at least an hour. Serve chilled. Spinach and curd is always a very nutritious combo, making this spinach yoghurt raita a must-have. Traces of chaat and sugar make the raita tastier, while the green chillies add a bit of fire to an otherwise bland raita. Sauteeing the palak for a couple of minutes acquire a flavours and textures that your taste buds will love to indulge in! Moreover the coconut oil used for tempering lends an authentic taste to the South Indian spinach raita. While spinach is an antioxidant boost, curd help lend the necessary protein, calcium and phosphorus for bone strengthening process. All healthy individuals can enjoy this accompaniment. Diabetics are advised to avoid the use of sugar and all weight watchers can make their choice between low fat and full fat curd to make this palak pachadi. Tips to make palak pachadi. 1. Ensure to use fresh curd for best flavour. 2. Do not over cook spinach, else it might lose its colour. palak pachadi recipe | South Indian spinach raita | spinach yoghurt raita | with step by step photos.

So tempting to look at, this Paneer and Tomato in Green Gravy is sure to make you drool, and so tasty it is, you will want a second helping too! Paneer and tomato cubes are drowned in a luscious green gravy with the snazzy flavours of coriander, onions and curds. The creamy gravy is ideal for paneer and tomatoes as it coats them well and perks up their flavours beautifully. Paneer and curds used in this recipe give you vitamin B2 along with protein and calcium while the tomatoes lend folic acid for the development of your baby’s brain. So, enjoy this delightful dish hot and fresh, with your favourite roti or pulao .

In a rush? You still need healthy food to stay energetic! How about preparing this super tasty Sprouts and Methi Rice one-dish meal that you can have right away or even take along in your dabba? The blend of brown rice with mixed sprouts, fenugreek leaves and spices makes this a tasteful dish brimming with iron.

Here, a wholesome combo of five dals is flavoured with a special masala water and whole spices as well! Not only the flavours of the spices, but the flavours of the assorted dals are also discernable in this delightful dish. Dissolving the spice powders in water before sautéing them ensures that they get uniformly mixed, and also gives a nice, strong aroma to the dish. The Panchmel Dal also gets a nice tangy twist from amchur powder and tamarind pulp, which makes it a nice, tongue-tickling treat!
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