Month: March 2023

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Cardamom

Cardamom is a spice native to India, Bhutan, Nepal, and Indonesia, and has been used in these regions for centuries. It is the third most expensive spice in the world after saffron and vanilla. In this essay, I will discuss the history, flavor profile, uses, and list a few dishes which use cardamom.

History: Cardamom has been used for thousands of years in traditional Indian, Ayurvedic, and Chinese medicine. The ancient Egyptians used it in perfumes and incense, while the Greeks and Romans used it as a cooking spice. It was also traded along the ancient Spice Route, which connected Asia and Europe, making it one of the earliest-known spices to be traded. Today, cardamom is still an important spice in the cuisines of many countries and cultures.

Flavor profile: Cardamom has a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and savory. It has a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet taste with hints of citrus, mint, and camphor. The flavor is complex and adds a distinct aromatic note to any dish it is used in.

Uses: Cardamom is a versatile spice and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It is commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian cuisine. In Indian cuisine, cardamom is used to flavor curries, rice dishes, and sweets. In Middle Eastern cuisine, it is used to flavor coffee and tea, as well as in meat dishes and stews. In Scandinavian cuisine, it is used to flavor pastries and baked goods.

Some of the most popular uses of cardamom include:

  • Adding it to tea or coffee for a unique and flavorful twist
  • Using it to flavor rice dishes, such as biryani or pilaf
  • Adding it to curries and stews for a warm and aromatic flavor
  • Using it to flavor desserts, such as cookies, cakes, and ice cream
  • Adding it to spice blends, such as garam masala or ras el hanout

Dishes which use cardamom:

  1. Biryani: A classic Indian rice dish flavored with cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and other spices, often served with vegetables, meat or seafood.
  2. Garam Masala: A popular Indian spice blend that includes cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander, and other spices. It is used to flavor curries, stews, and other dishes.
  3. Chai Tea: A popular Indian tea made with black tea, milk, sugar, and cardamom, as well as other spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
  4. Cardamom Rolls: A Scandinavian pastry made with cardamom-infused dough and topped with sugar and cinnamon.
  5. Kheer: A classic Indian rice pudding flavored with cardamom, saffron, and other spices, often served as a dessert.

    Green Cardamom
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Chickpeas: The Hummus-orous Superfood You Need to Try

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a type of legume that are packed with nutrients and health benefits. Here are 11 benefits of chickpeas:

  1. Rich in nutrients: Chickpeas are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They contain high amounts of protein, folate, iron, phosphorus, and zinc.
  2. Aid in weight loss: Chickpeas are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great food choice for weight loss. The fiber content helps to keep you feeling full for longer periods of time.
  3. Reduce the risk of chronic diseases: The high fiber content in chickpeas has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
  4. Improve digestion: The fiber in chickpeas helps to promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
  5. Boost energy levels: Chickpeas are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide the body with sustained energy.
  6. Lower cholesterol levels: The soluble fiber in chickpeas helps to lower cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol in the digestive system and preventing it from being absorbed.
  7. Regulate blood sugar levels: Chickpeas have a low glycemic index, meaning they cause a slow and steady rise in blood sugar levels, making them a good food choice for people with diabetes.
  8. Improve heart health: Chickpeas are a good source of potassium, which helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
  9. Support bone health: Chickpeas contain high amounts of calcium and magnesium, which are important for maintaining strong bones.
  10. Promote healthy skin: The vitamin C and antioxidants in chickpeas help to promote healthy skin by protecting against free radical damage.
  11. Boost brain function: Chickpeas are a good source of choline, which is important for brain health and can help improve memory and cognitive function.

Chickpeas are a nutrient-dense food that can provide numerous health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. They can be eaten in a variety of ways, such as roasted, boiled, or mashed, and are a versatile ingredient in many recipes.

Chickpeas

 

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How to make delicious rotis at home

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rotis are a type of Indian flatbread that are traditionally made with wheat flour and water. Here is an easy recipe for making rotis:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of whole wheat flour
  • ¾ to 1 cup of water
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour and salt.
  2. Slowly add the water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
  3. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
  5. Divide the dough into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball.
  6. On a floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll out each ball of dough into a thin circle.
  7. Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
  8. Place the roti on the pan and cook for 20-30 seconds on each side, until bubbles form and brown spots appear.
  9. Use a pair of tongs to flip the roti over and cook the other side.
  10. Brush with a little bit of oil or ghee, if desired, and serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade rotis with your favorite curry or dish!

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Cumin Seeds

Cumin seeds have been used as a spice and medicinal herb for thousands of years. The history of cumin dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was used in mummification and as a seasoning for food. It was also used in ancient Greece and Rome for its aromatic and medicinal properties. Today, cumin is widely used in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mexican cuisine.

Cumin seeds are known for their distinct, warm and earthy aroma. They have a slightly bitter taste and are often used as a flavoring agent in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, and curries. Cumin seeds are also used to make spice blends like garam masala and chili powder.

Cumin seeds are rich in nutrients, including iron, manganese, and calcium. They are also a good source of fiber and antioxidants. A teaspoon of cumin seeds contains around 7 calories, 0.4 grams of protein, and 0.5 grams of fat.

Cumin seeds have many health benefits. They are known to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and improve blood sugar control. They may also have antimicrobial and anticancer properties.

In addition to its culinary and medicinal uses, cumin has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including respiratory and digestive disorders. It has also been used topically to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Cumin seeds are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be added to soups, stews, curries, and roasted vegetables. Cumin seeds can also be used to make tea or added to homemade spice blends.

In summary, cumin seeds have a long history of use in both culinary and medicinal contexts. They have many health benefits and are a rich source of nutrients. Their warm and earthy aroma adds depth and flavor to a variety of dishes.

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Canola Oil

Canola oil is a popular vegetable oil that is widely used in the food industry due to its versatility and numerous health benefits. It is made from the seeds of the canola plant, which is a type of rapeseed that has been selectively bred to produce a lower level of erucic acid and glucosinolates, two compounds that are considered potentially harmful to human health. In this essay, we will discuss the origins of canola oil, its nutritional profile, health benefits, and potential drawbacks.

The history of canola oil dates back to the 1960s, when Canadian researchers began developing a new variety of rapeseed that would be low in erucic acid and glucosinolates. This new variety, which was eventually named “canola” (short for “Canadian oil, low acid”), was first commercially produced in the 1970s and quickly gained popularity due to its high smoke point, mild flavor, and healthy fat profile.

Canola oil is a rich source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered “good” fats that can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It is also low in saturated fats and high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving brain function, and supporting heart health.

In addition to its fat content, canola oil is also a good source of vitamins E and K, which are important antioxidants that help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation. It also contains small amounts of other nutrients, such as vitamin B6, folate, and potassium.

One of the main health benefits of canola oil is its ability to lower cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that consuming canola oil can lead to a significant decrease in LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and an increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Canola oil has also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

However, there are some potential drawbacks to consuming canola oil. One concern is that it is often produced using genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which can be a source of controversy in the food industry. Additionally, some people may be allergic to canola oil or experience digestive issues when consuming it in large amounts.

Overall, canola oil is a healthy and versatile oil that can be used for a variety of cooking purposes, including sautéing, baking, and frying. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it is a good option for those looking to improve their heart health and reduce their risk of chronic diseases.

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Jeera Rice: Comfort food for a Sunday afternoon

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jeera rice is a popular Indian dish made by cooking rice with cumin seeds and other spices. Here is a simple recipe for Jeera rice:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1 tbsp ghee or oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 cup of frozen peas
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2 cups water
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and the frozen peas. Have a splatter guard handy. It’s going to splatter! Fry the jeera and the peas for a few seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the soaked rice to the pan and stir well to coat the rice with the spices.
  4. Add 2 cups of water and salt to taste. Stir well and bring the water to a boil.
  5. Once the water comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water has been absorbed.
  6. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Your Jeera rice is now ready to serve! It can be served with various Indian dishes such as dal, and curries, or as a side dish with any meal.