Sri Lankan Low-Calorie Kola Kanda with Steamed Vegetables

This modified recipe is a weight-loss-friendly version of the traditional Sri Lankan Kola Kanda, a herbal porridge. Packed with nutrient-dense greens, fiber-rich vegetables, and metabolism-boosting spices, this dish is perfect for Sri Lankans looking to shed weight while enjoying a flavorful and culturally relevant meal. It’s light, easy to prepare, and highly nutritious.

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Weight loss based ingredients

  • 1 cup Gotukola (Centella asiatica) – Rich in antioxidants and aids digestion.
  • 1 cup chopped spinach – High in fiber and low in calories.
  • 1 cup grated coconut (unsweetened) – Provides healthy fats for satiety.
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber – Hydrating and low in calories.
  • 1 cup steamed pumpkin – High in fiber and vitamins.
  • 1 green chili (optional) – Boosts metabolism.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder – Aids digestion and fat metabolism.
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder – Anti-inflammatory and weight-loss supportive.
  • 1 cup water or low-fat coconut milk – Keeps the dish light and hydrating.
  • Salt to taste – Use in moderation.

Cooking Methods (Instructions) Focused for Weight Loss

1. Wash and finely chop Gotukola and spinach. Steam them lightly to retain nutrients. Set aside.

2. In a blender, combine steamed greens, grated coconut, and water or low-fat coconut milk. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed for a porridge-like consistency.

3. In a separate bowl, steam the pumpkin and cucumber until tender but firm. This helps retain their crunch and nutritional value.

4. Heat a small pan and lightly roast cumin and turmeric powders for a few seconds to enhance their flavor and health benefits.

5. Mix the blended greens with the steamed vegetables. Add roasted spices and salt to taste. Stir well and serve warm or at room temperature.

Weight Loss Tips & Advice

1. Use unsweetened grated coconut to avoid unnecessary calories while still enjoying its health benefits.

2. Steaming vegetables instead of frying preserves their nutrients and reduces calorie intake.

3. Incorporate metabolism-boosting spices like cumin and turmeric to enhance fat-burning.

4. Drink plenty of water alongside this meal to aid digestion and keep you full longer.

5. Avoid adding sugar or sweeteners to keep the dish low-calorie and weight-loss friendly.

Conclusion

This Sri Lankan Low-Calorie Kola Kanda with Steamed Vegetables is an excellent choice for weight loss as it combines traditional ingredients with modern health principles. It is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and metabolism-boosting spices, making it ideal for Sri Lankans seeking a culturally rooted, nutritious, and low-calorie meal. Pair it with a healthy lifestyle for the best results.