When you say ‘jale’, it brings to mind images of the classic Indian sweet that is sticky with its curly tubes drenched in a luscious syrup, its round cakes deep-fried until a golden orange. But would it be as appealing in a new hue, say magenta or blue? Green jalebis are the color an article on social media has introduced us to. They’ve even been called mountain dew jalebis and have prompted experts to explain why we should take a shot at this delicious treat.

“This jalebi, which is quite well-known in Bengaluru, iss made using the hyacinth bean,givings it a vibrant green color and unique taste. The green jalebi doesn’t originate from a popular soft drink’s name, nor due to the use of synthetic food coloring. It’s due to its origins in the green color of the hyacinth beans. They are locally known as “avarebeleor the avarekaiin Karnataka,” says dietitian Srishti Arora of Delhi.

Green jalebi also differs.

The method of making green jalebi is different from preparing regular jalebi. Incubate freshly shelled hyacinth beans for a few hours, then remove their coats and grind the seeds that have been soaked to the consistency of a fine powder. Incorporate the paste from the beans and white flour (maida or all-purpose flour), giving it a green hue. This batter should be fermented for 4 to 5 hours. After that, pour it into molds for making jalebi and deep fry the jalebis until they have an attractive golden green. Dip the fried coils in a mix made of sweet syrups and honey. The jalebis are crispy on the outside but soft, juicy, and moist inside with a tangier taste. This distinguishes them from normal jalebis.

Views of nutritionists on Jalebi

“Typically we don’t eat sweets with any nutritional value. Instead, we believe that eating them with the release positive hormones or neurotransmitters,” says Reena Shivakumar, Clinical Nutritionist in Bengaluru.

In recent years there’s been a rising trend of incorporating healthier ingredients to make traditional sweets and snacks, frequently creating fusion-based creations.

“I can see [hyacinth beans or green jalebi] as a unique idea but not as a healthy option, as sweets are always high in carbohydrates and fats,” says Dr. Shridevi Gothe, an ayurvedic food and technology scientist from Bengaluru.

Shivakumar clarifies that deep-frying takes off the nutrients of food items. However, there are many healthy alternatives to making traditional sweets.

For instance, one could make halwa or kheer using the harebell. The older generations utilized coconut or jaggery to make traditional sweets, which were delicious and nutritious. “By choosing such healthy alternatives, you can satisfy your sweet cravings while also gaining the health benefits of ingredients such as avarekai,” Shivakumar says. Shivakumar.

The health benefits of the hyacinth beans

Hyacinth beans| Representational image|Shutterstock

Hyacinth bean, also known as Avarekai, is a well-known winter-time legume commonly used in South India. The shelled beans are used in a wide variety of food items and snacks. Also known as’surti-papdi in certain parts of North India and as lablab in a few areas of the world – the beans are nutrient-rich and have numerous health advantages.

It’s rich in fiber, protein minerals, vitamins, and protein, making it an excellent ingredient to add value to any dish.

“This bean is known to reduce the levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein or `the bad cholesterol’) and help in preventing cardiovascular diseases,” Srishti Arora. She claims it is an excellent supply of Vitamin B1 and zinc.

Here are a few advantages that come from Hyacinth beans.

Protein-rich

Hyacinth beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, with 100 grams offering around 9 grams of protein. They are an excellent protein source for vegans and vegetarians, and those seeking to increase the amount of protein they consume.

Rich in fiber

Hyacinth beans also are a great source of fiber; 100 grams contain about 3 grams of fiber. Fibre is crucial to maintaining your digestive system’s health, regulating blood sugar levels and providing feelings of fullness or satisfaction.

Rich in minerals and vitamins

They are high in minerals and vitamins that include iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, as well vitamin B1 as well as B6. These nutrients support good health and boost your immune system.

Celebrating Hyacinth Beans

Green jalebis are a famous sweet delight at Bengaluru’s exclusive hyacinth bean winter festival called the Avarekai Mela. The event celebrates the distinctive flavor and variety of hyacinth beans by inventing ways to incorporate them into various regional dishes for people who are fans of this particular bean.