Spices have been integral to global cuisines since people are cooking not just for enhancing flavors but also for bestowing health-promoting benefits. Certain Indian spices, with their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties play a pivotal role in maintaining heart health. Embracing these spices fosters a flavorful and heart-healthy lifestyle.
This blog will show you which Indian spices have the power to improve your heart capacity.
Top 5 Spices For a Healthy Heart
“Let food be thy medicine, and medicine thy food.” said, ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, the father of medicine. Some of the spices can enhance blood flow which is crucial for a healthy life. Because blood carries enzymes, oxygen, and nutrients that help to heal your body.
1. SPICE: Black Pepper
BENEFITS: Black pepper boosts digestion, regulates cholesterol, and aids nutrient absorption that can help lower the chance of possible heart attack or stroke. It has antioxidant properties and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects that enhance overall health naturally.
BEST USED ON: vegetables, grains, soup, fried rice, Sandwiches, Pao-Vaji.
HOW TO USE:
Black pepper comes from the unripe, dried fruit of the native Indian plant, Piper Nigrum. It can be used in various ways to elevate flavors in food:
Seasoning: Enhance the taste of dishes by adding a pinch of ground black pepper while cooking, whether it's in sauces, stir-fries, or stews.
Finishing Touch: Grind fresh black pepper over finished dishes, like mashed potatoes, omelets, or creamy soups, just before serving for a burst of flavor.
Combining with Spices: Blend black pepper with other spices for homemade spice blends used in curries, seasoning mixes, or dry rubs.
2.SPICE: Ginger
BENEFITS: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, aids digestion, alleviates nausea, and supports immune health that offers versatile benefits for digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. It helps to reduce the risk of blocked arteries, a common factor in heart attacks and heart disease.
Studies show Ginger's potential to support heart health by providing oxidative stress and anti-inflammation. Its effects on cholesterol, liver function, and blood pressure have a positive impact on heart function. Integrate
dry Ginger powder into meals and make tasty Indian cuisine.
BEST USED ON/IN: Marinades, vegetables, soups, veg korma.
HOW TO USE:
Ginger powder adds a warm flavor to dishes. Sprinkle it into marinades, soups, stews, or curries for a subtle, spicy kick. It works well in baked goods too, like gingerbread or cookies. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste for a delightful flavor boost!
3. SPICE: Cinnamon
BENEFITS: Cinnamon has high anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces the “bad cholesterol” while producing the good cholesterol to remain healthy.
BEST USED ON/IN: Oatmeal, toast, coffee/tea.
HOW TO USE:
Cinnamon is
fresh whole spices. There are two types of cinnamon: Ceylon and Cassia and it is derived from the bark of Cinnamon trees. Cinnamon powder can add a delightful touch to various meals:
Breakfast: Sprinkle over oatmeal, cereal, or yogurt.
Smoothies: Blend with fruits, yogurt, or milk for a flavorful kick.
Savory Dishes: Add a pinch to curries, stews, or roasted vegetables for a subtle warmth. If you want to know more about using cinnamon, you can go through this blog ‘
Use Of Indian Spices’.
4. SPICE: Coriander
BENEFITS: Coriander, also known as cilantro or Chinese parsley, offers potential heart-healthy benefits. It contains compounds that may help lower levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol while increasing "good" HDL cholesterol to promote heart health. Some studies suggest coriander may help regulate blood pressure.
BEST USED ON/IN: Curries, Marinades, Roasted food items, Paneer Korma.
HOW TO USE:
Coriander powder has an aromatic flavor, and can elevate various dishes. Here are ways to use it:
Curries and Stews: Add coriander powder while sautéing onions and garlic as a base for curries.
Marinades and Rubs: Mix coriander powder with other spices, herbs, and oil to create flavorful marinades or rubs for Panner, tofu, or veggies before grilling or roasting.
Soups and Broths: Enhance soups by sprinkling a bit of coriander powder for added extra flavor.
Salad Dressings: Blend coriander powder into homemade salad dressings or vinaigrettes for a unique taste.
5.SPICE: Turmeric
BENEFITS: Haldi Powder contains curcumin which is popular for its anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce inflammation in blood vessels, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease. Curcumin might also improve cholesterol levels and support overall heart health.
BEST USED ON/IN: As it is a basic Indian masala, you can add it in marinating, preparing curries, or frying veggies.
HOW TO USE:
Turmeric or haldi powder can be used in various ways:
Curries and Stews: Add it to your curry or stew for a rich color and flavor. It's a staple in many Indian dishes.
Roasted Vegetables: Use haldi (turmeric) powder in a vegetable to add a flavorful and colorful touch. Combine the turmeric powder with yogurt or oil and mix it with chopped vegetables. After marinating, you can grill or fry vegetables, or paneer as desired.
Smoothies: Blend a pinch of haldi powder into your morning smoothie for a health boost.
Wrap Up
Every individual wants to eat healthy and stay healthy, therefore adding fresh whole spices can play a vital role for the same. If you are looking to order from a range of spices online, don’t worry, you can get gourmet spices online at JK Cart. Visit our site and buy Indian spices to prepare mouthwatering dishes quickly for your family or loved ones while also fostering a healthy and long life.
