Water Chestnut: The Winter Superfood Packed with Nutrients – Try These Delicious Recipes

As winter arrives, the markets begin to fill with fresh singada (water chestnuts) — a seasonal fruit known for its mild sweetness and impressive health benefits. Grown in ponds and lakes, water chestnuts are an important part of many winter diets and are also offered during Chhath Puja, where they hold religious significance.

Protected by their hard outer shell, water chestnuts remain fresh and free from insects. Beyond their crisp texture and refreshing taste, they’re loaded with nutrients. According to WebMD, 100 grams of raw water chestnuts provide about 97 calories, 3 grams of fiber, 1 gram of protein, and 5 grams of natural sugar. They’re also rich in vitamin B6, riboflavin (B2), potassium, manganese, and copper — making them a perfect energy-boosting winter snack.

Health Benefits
As per Healthline, regular consumption of water chestnuts can help in:

• Supporting weight loss

• Controlling blood pressure

• Reducing oxidative stress

• Improving digestion

Because of their light and energizing nature, singada atta (water chestnut flour) is often used during fasting (vrat).

So, if you’re looking for creative ways to include this nutritious fruit in your meals, here are some tasty recipes to try at home.

1. Spicy Water Chestnut Vegetable

At home, many prefer making a simple yet flavorful singada sabzi. After removing the thorns, chop the raw water chestnuts with the peel. Heat mustard oil and add turmeric, red chili, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook the pieces until slightly crispy. This crunchy and spicy vegetable pairs perfectly with roti, rice, or paratha.

2. Water Chestnut-Potato Chaat

Give your water chestnuts a tangy twist by turning them into a chaat. Boil and peel the water chestnuts and potatoes, then cut them into small pieces. Heat a little ghee or oil, add cumin seeds, and sauté the pieces. Toss with green chilies, lemon juice, black salt, and black pepper. Serve with sweet and tangy chutney for a refreshing snack.

3. Crispy Water Chestnut Chips

For a crunchy treat, try making singada chips. Boil and peel the water chestnuts, then lightly fry them. Flatten each piece using a bowl or glass, and fry again until golden and crisp. Drain the excess oil and sprinkle black salt, pepper, and dry mango powder on top. These chips are a great winter evening snack.

4. Water Chestnut Kheer

Perfect for fasting days, this singada kheer is both nourishing and indulgent. Boil and grate water chestnuts, then roast them in ghee. In another pan, simmer milk until slightly thickened. Add the roasted water chestnuts, sugar, cardamom powder, and dry fruits. To enhance creaminess, mix in a bit of custard powder. Serve warm or chilled.

5. Water Chestnut Pickle

Preserve the taste of winter with a tangy singada achar. Boil and dry the water chestnuts, then mix them with traditional pickle spices. Store the mixture in a glass jar filled with mustard oil, ensuring all pieces are fully submerged. This pickle can be enjoyed long after the season ends.