Tukh Malanga (تخم ملنگا, تخم ریحان)

Common Names: Tukh Malanga, Tukham Balango
English Name: Basil Seeds
Urdu Name: تخم ملنگا, تخم ریحان
Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum
Dietary Information: Halal, Vegetarian

Description

Tukh Malanga, also known as Basil Seeds, are small black seeds that develop a distinctive gel-like coating when soaked in water. A traditional ingredient in Pakistani and South Asian cuisine, they are especially popular in refreshing summer drinks such as falooda and lemonade.

Once soaked, the seeds become soft and jelly-like, making them easy to add to beverages, smoothies, desserts, and other recipes. Tukh Malanga provides fiber along with minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium, as well as omega-3 fatty acids.

Traditionally enjoyed as a refreshing ingredient during hot weather, these versatile basil seeds are a convenient addition to everyday drinks and meals.

Nutritional Information

Per 5 grams of Tukh Malanga:

• Calories: 15 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 2.4 g

• Protein: 0.3 g

• Total Fat: 0.2 g

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 475 mg

• Vitamin B9: 15.5 mcg

• Vitamin A: 0.3 mcg

• Vitamin C: 0.36 g

• Calcium: 7.9 mg

• Magnesium: 35 mg

• Iron: 4.5 mg

• Zinc: 0.08 g

• Potassium: 131 mg

• Choline: 2.75 mg

The nutritional composition may vary depending on seed variety, growing conditions, and processing methods.

Naturally Occurring Compounds

Tukh Malanga contains phenolic compounds and flavonoids, naturally occurring plant compounds associated with antioxidant activity. The seeds are also a source of omega-3 fatty acids and minerals including magnesium, iron, calcium, and potassium.

Potential Benefits

As part of a balanced diet, Tukh Malanga may offer several nutritional advantages:

• Provides dietary nutrients: Contains protein, healthy fats, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals.

• Supports digestive wellness: The seeds develop a gel-like coating after soaking and provide fiber, making them a useful addition to a fiber-rich diet.

• Provides minerals: Contains magnesium, iron, calcium, and potassium.

• Contains antioxidant compounds: Phenolics and flavonoids contribute to the seed's naturally occurring antioxidant properties.

• Useful for hydration-focused drinks: Their traditional use in chilled beverages makes them a popular choice during warm weather.

These nutritional properties may support general wellness, but Tukh Malanga should not be considered a treatment or cure for any medical condition.

Healthy Daily Serving Size

The provided serving size is 1 teaspoon (5 grams) daily, containing approximately 15 calories.

How to Use Tukh Malanga

Tukh Malanga is easy to incorporate into everyday Pakistani and South Asian recipes:

• Falooda: Soak the seeds and add them to traditional falooda.

• Lemonade: Mix soaked basil seeds into homemade lemonade for a refreshing drink.

• Smoothies: Add soaked seeds to fruit or yogurt-based smoothies.

• Desserts: Use them in puddings and other chilled desserts.

• Cold beverages: Combine with milk, water, or other refreshing drinks.

• Traditional summer drinks: Their gel-like texture makes them particularly popular in cooling beverages.

For use, soak the seeds in water until they develop their characteristic gel-like outer layer before adding them to drinks or recipes.

About Fruity Nuts

At Fruity Nuts, Tukh Malanga is part of a carefully selected range of seeds, spices, Dry Fruits, nuts, and natural food products suited to everyday Pakistani kitchens. Explore the collection at fruitynuts.pk for more traditional and nutritious pantry ingredients.