Gujiya is the most loved Indian sweet traditionally enjoyed during festivals like Holi and Diwali. As much as we love the delightful taste and crispy texture of this sweet, this deep-fried sweet is often rich in calories and fat. This is due to the ingredients used in making this sweet, such as oil, refined flour, khoya, sugar, etc. But what if we tell you that by following some simple tips, you can make this traditional sweet a healthy delight? Read on to find out more…


Use whole wheat flour
The traditional recipe for gujiya uses refined white flour (maida) to make the dough. To make the gujiya healthier, switch to whole wheat flour. Whole wheat flour retains more nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals, compared to refined flour. The fiber content helps slow down the digestion process, which can help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. Whole wheat flour also gives the gujiya a more wholesome texture and flavor.


Use healthy oils for frying
Traditionally, gujiyas are deep-fried in refined vegetable oils, which are high in unhealthy trans fats. Instead of using refined oils, opt for healthier alternatives like olive oil or coconut oil. Both are healthier fat options that offer better nutritional value. While deep frying is still not the healthiest cooking method, using these oils can make a significant difference in reducing the harmful effects of trans fats. Alternatively, you can also bake the gujiyas in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, which would reduce the overall fat content significantly.


Reduce Sugar and Use Natural Sweeteners
The filling of gujiya is typically made with khoya (or mawa), sugar, and dry fruits. A lot of sugar is often added to enhance sweetness, but this can lead to a high calorie and sugar content. You can make the gujiya healthier by reducing the sugar or replacing it with natural sweeteners like stevia, jaggery, or coconut sugar. Jaggery is a natural sweetener that also provides essential minerals like iron and magnesium. Using dried fruits like dates or raisins can also help in naturally sweetening the filling without the need for excessive added sugars.


Add nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Instead of just using traditional ingredients like cashews, almonds, and raisins, you can add healthier options like chia seeds, sunflower seeds, or flaxseeds to the gujiya filling. These ingredients are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber, all of which are beneficial for overall health. Moreover, the crunchiness they add to the filling enhances the texture of the gujiya.


Use low-fat milk
Khoya, or mawa, is a key ingredient in the traditional gujiya filling, but it is high in fat and calories. To make gujiya healthier, consider substituting khoya with low-fat milk or low-fat paneer (cottage cheese). You can reduce the fat content of the filling while still retaining the creamy texture and rich flavor. To make the filling even lighter, you could use unsweetened yogurt or ricotta cheese, which is also lower in fat compared to traditional khoya.


Add low-fat filling
For a fresh and healthy twist, you can add fruits like apples, bananas, or grated carrots to the gujiya filling. Fruits are naturally sweet and packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them an excellent choice for enhancing the nutritional value of the gujiya. The natural sweetness from fruits will also reduce the need for added sugar in the recipe. The fruits will also add moisture and flavor, making the gujiya more flavorful and nutritious.


Bake instead of frying
While frying gujiyas is the traditional method, baking them is a healthier alternative that can significantly reduce the oil content. To bake gujiyas, simply prepare them as you would for frying, but instead of deep frying, place them on a baking sheet and brush them with a light layer of olive oil or ghee. Bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Baking not only cuts down on calories but also preserves the flavor and texture of the gujiya.



Portion sizes
Even with healthier ingredients, gujiya is a calorie-dense treat, so portion control is essential. Enjoy gujiya in moderation, particularly if you are watching your weight or managing blood sugar levels. Instead of indulging in multiple gujiyas, try limiting yourself to a smaller portion to savor the taste while still keeping your health goals in check.



Add spices
Spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg are often used in gujiya fillings, and these spices not only add flavor but also offer health benefits. For example, cardamom helps with digestion, cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties, and nutmeg is known for its antioxidant properties. By incorporating more of these spices, you can enhance the flavor profile of your gujiya while boosting its nutritional value.