Holi 2026: Use these low-oil cooking tips by dietician for healthy festive recipes

Holi treats without the guilt. Bake, air fry, steam and swap smartly — here’s how to enjoy festive favourites the healthier way. (Photo: Pinterest)

• Bake or air fry festive snacks for less oil, same taste
• Measured cooking and non-stick pans help cut excess oil use
• Steaming and using whole grains boost health during festivals

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Holi is a festival that brings colour, laughter, and a table full of indulgent favourites. Gujiyas, kachoris, malpuas, and fried snacks are enjoyed as part of the tradition, yet they are often cooked in excessive oil.

Dr Pratayksha Bhardwaj, a World Record Holder Dietician and Weight Management Expert, shared with Moneycontrol that festive occasions should allow people to experience joy while remaining cautious about their eating restrictions. “The key to success lies in proper execution, which requires no one to give up their basic needs,” she said.

Baking or air frying

One of the simplest shifts is to replace deep frying with baking or air frying. Ghee can be used to lightly brush gujiyas, which can then be baked until crisp. "This method reduces oil content while maintaining their original taste. Kachoris and mathris also adapt well to air frying, offering the same crunch with controlled fat usage," Dr Bhardwaj added.

Also Read: Holi 2026 desserts: Chef-curated traditional and modern dessert recipes by Indian chefs

Measured cooking

The practice of measured cooking leads to better results in cooking. He noted, "The method of using a teaspoon to measure oil instead of pouring it directly from the container prevents the use of extra oil.” Non-stick and cast-iron cookware enables users to cook without needing extra cooking oil. “The process of dry roasting spices for fillings and gravies creates better aromatic flavour while allowing the spices to show their true taste without needing heavy tempering,” he said.

Steaming over frying 

Another useful option exists in steaming. According to Dr Bhardwaj, dahi vadas can be prepared by steaming lentil batter in moulds before soaking them in seasoned yoghurt. The result remains soft and satisfying, minus the frying. Vegetables used in festive pulao and chaats can be prepared through oven roasting which requires only a small amount of oil to enhance their natural sweetness.

“The balance between ingredients stands as an important consideration. The replacement of refined flour with whole wheat or millet flour raises fibre content while enhancing satiety. The limited use of nuts and seeds enables creation of rich dishes without needing to use extra oil,” he said.

Also Read: Holi 2026 cocktail recipes: Festive cocktails by India’s top mixologists

Festivals should be enjoyed because that’s what they are meant for, and exercising just a little caution can help you indulge if you are mindful about cooking methods and portion control. These slight modifications can help you have a great time without worrying about your health.