When it comes to a nutritious diet, the name of protein comes first. This is because protein is necessary for the growth, repair and many other functions of our body. Whole pulses are a treasure trove of nutrition and we should include them more in our diet.

More than 20 varieties of pulses found in nature are a rich source of essential nutrients for a healthy diet. Whole pulses are a great source of protein, fiber, and several important vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, folate, and magnesium. Fortune pulses include arhar dal, moong dal, chana dal, masoor dal (both malka and desi), Kabuli chana, rajma chitra, black gram, and sona moong dal.

Even though the classic dal-rice combination is a favorite meal in many households, adding a variety of pulses to our diet gives us all their nutritional benefits. Today we are going to tell you a 7-day pulse protein plan, which you can use to get maximum benefit from pulses in a healthy, tasty, and new way.

1. Mixed pulses
Start with unpolished mixed lentils, pigeon peas, and moong dal. To make it more nutritious, add a handful of dry fruits like cashews. Serve hot with rice, ghee, and your favorite pickle.

2. Sprouts
You can plan in advance and sprout various pulses and beans like moong, masoor, or black gram, chickpea, and chickpea. Steam them, add chaat masala, lemon juice and enjoy as evening snack. You can also include these in your main meal.

3. Baked Pulses
Here you can mix any cooked dal of your choice with mashed sweet potatoes or potatoes, chopped green chillies, coriander, and spices. Knead the batter, make small balls, and flatten them like kebabs. After this, grease an oven-proof dish, place the kebab, apply some oil on top, and bake or grill or air fry until golden. Enjoy as a snack with your favorite chutney.

4. Hummus
Soak the gram overnight, cook it in a pressure cooker, and then grind it with some garlic, green chillies, curd, tahini (sesame butter), and herbs of your choice. Eat it with whole wheat pita bread as a small snack or with a salad for a larger meal.

5. Rajma Rice
Eating Rajma and rice together is a nutritious and super healthy meal. It provides all 8 essential amino acids and over 8 grams of fiber. Enjoy it with your favorite vegetable and raita.

6. Healthy Burrito Bowl
Mix cooked beans with brown rice, chopped tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables of your choice. Add some guacamole or avocado dip to it. Mix with extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, chili flakes, and other herbs of your choice. This makes a great meal for the family on game night.

7. Healthy Halwa
This is a classic Indian dish which has many ways to prepare it. If you want to make it healthy, cook halwa with jaggery and skimmed milk instead of sugar and full cream milk. Garnish with nuts and dry fruits and enjoy hot or cold.

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