Sattu - Chana Sattu - roasted gram flour

Chana sattu is a nutritious flour made from roasted chickpeas (chana dal). It's commonly used in Indian cuisine, especially in the regions of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where it's enjoyed for its cooling properties and health benefits, particularly during hot summers. Here's a concise overview of chana sattu:
### Benefits of Chana Sattu:
1. **High in Protein**: Chana sattu is rich in protein, making it a valuable source of plant-based protein for vegetarians and vegans.
2. **Rich in Fiber**: It contains dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, helps in maintaining a healthy weight, and promotes satiety.
3. **Cooling Properties**: In Indian traditional medicine (Ayurveda), chana sattu is considered cooling and is often consumed during summers to beat the heat and stay hydrated.
4. **Vitamins and Minerals**: It provides essential vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and B vitamins, which are important for overall health.
5. **Low Glycemic Index**: Chana sattu has a low glycemic index, meaning it doesn’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, making it suitable for individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels.
### Uses of Chana Sattu:
1. **Sattu Drink**: A popular way to consume chana sattu is by mixing it with water, salt, lemon juice, and sometimes sugar or jaggery to make a refreshing and nutritious drink.
2. **Sattu Paratha**: Chana sattu can be mixed with spices, chopped onions, and herbs to make a filling for stuffed parathas (Indian flatbreads).
3. **Sattu Ladoo**: Sweet balls made from chana sattu, ghee (clarified butter), and sugar or jaggery. They are often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
4. **Sattu Chilla**: Savory pancakes made from chana sattu batter mixed with water, spices, and sometimes chopped vegetables. Cooked on a griddle until crisp.
5. **Mixing Agent**: Chana sattu can be used as a thickening agent in soups, stews, and gravies to add a nutty flavor and boost nutrition.
### Incorporating Chana Sattu into Your Diet:
- **Start with Drinks**: Begin by trying chana sattu as a refreshing drink mixed with water, lemon juice, and salt.
  
- **Explore Recipes**: Experiment with different recipes like parathas, ladoos, chillas, and even adding it to smoothies for a protein boost.
- **Store Properly**: Keep chana sattu in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Chana sattu is not only nutritious but also versatile in its culinary applications, offering a range of health benefits that make it a valuable addition to your diet, especially during hot weather or as a protein-rich alternative.