Lokmat News Network
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
The ongoing gas shortage and rising cylinder prices have directly affected household kitchens, leaving many homemakers worried about how to save cooking gas. However, with a few smart changes in cooking methods, it is possible to prepare nutritious and tasty meals for the family even with limited gas. Chef Vishnu Manohar and Madhura Bachal of Madhura Recipes shared useful tips on saving gas and preparing healthy ‘no-fire’ dishes.
Nutritious no-gas options
Madhura Bachal suggested focusing on cold cooking and traditional dishes that do not require gas.
— Salads are a good option, but traditional dishes such as kanya and gulvani, which are served as cold soups or drinks, can also be prepared. Vidarbha’s popular sattu drink is another healthy alternative.
—- A nutritious bhel can be made using puffed rice, onion and coriander. Ground puffed rice mixed with buttermilk or curd can also make a filling drink.
—- For children, shakes made with makhana (fox nuts) and dry fruits, as well as healthy bowls using chia seeds and basil seeds (sabja), are good options.
—- Use pressure cookers more often and prefer one-pot recipes.
Gas-saving cooking tips
Chef Vishnu Manohar suggested small changes in cooking methods to reduce gas consumption.
— Instead of roasting rotis directly on the gas flame, cook them fully on a pan to save gas.
— While preparing dishes such as upma, rice or sheera, there is no need to keep the gas on continuously. They can cook well on steam after adding boiling water and turning off the flame.
— While cooking dal and rice in a pressure cooker, add potatoes or other vegetables to boil at the same time to save both time and gas. After one whistle, reduce the flame and cook on low heat. Using appliances like microwaves and electric kettles can also help.
Expert tips
— Chop vegetables and keep spices ready before lighting the gas to avoid wastage.
—- Cooking with a lid instead of an open pot can save about 15% of gas.
— Soak chana, rajma or moth beans for 4–5 hours before cooking to reduce cooking time.
—- Use only the required amount of water while cooking, as excess water needs more gas to evaporate.