On top of boosting flavour, several Indian spices have also been shown to boost health, including turmeric, ginger, and fenugreek.
Although Indian cuisine varies greatly depending on region, a common denominator exists among all Indian food: the presence of aroma- and flavour-rich spices!
Several of these spices have become staples in many kitchens, including coriander, cumin, ginger, turmeric, and mustard seed. Other spices that may not be as well-known to westerners include asafoetida and fenugreek, among others. These lesser-known spices may not be available at your regular after-work stop-and-shop; however, they can be easily found at your local Indian grocer.
On top of boosting flavour, several of these spices have also been shown to boost health—so don’t skimp on the spice!
Turmeric
Curcumin, the active component of turmeric, has been shown in several studies to have health-promoting effects. Such benefits include relief from indigestion, reduced LDL (bad) cholesterol, and cancer protection.
Fenugreek
Cultivated for its leaves and seeds, this plant is a common addition to many curries and has been touted for its hypoglycemic effect, especially in those with diabetes.
Ginger
Long known for its ability to treat nausea, ginger has also been shown to reduce inflammation, such as that associated with osteoarthritis, as well as to protect against heart disease.
To incorporate these and other Indian spices into your family’s meals, take a gander at the following recipes and get inspired!
- Pacific Halibut in Coconut Curry
- Lentil Potato Dal with Cashew Almond Sauce
- Akoori
- Tomato, Coriander, and Ginger Soup
- Dahiwali Chicken Curry in Yogourt-Based Gravy
