WHAT’S COOKING HONEY? (PART- II)

Continuing with previous post find list of herbs and spices which along with tantalizing your taste buds will provide numerous health benefits:

• Turmeric: Turmeric is seen as an excellent natural antibiotic
  
  


• Coriander: Anti-inflammatory properties and lowers cholesterol
  
  


• Mustard: Mustard seeds are a very good source of selenium and omega-3 fatty acids. They are also a good source of phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, dietary fiber, iron, calcium, protein, niacin and zinc.
  
  


• Ginger: Ginger has been used to aid digestion, treat stomach upset, arthritis, diarrhea, nausea, common cold, flu-like symptoms, headaches, heart conditions, in addition to be valued around the world as an important cooking masala and spice. It has been used as a medicine in Asian, Indian, and Arabic herbal traditions besides being used as a culinary spice since ancient times.
  
  


• Fenugreek: It is used in reducing the blood sugar level and blood pressure; it is rich in vitamins, minerals and proteins.
  
  


• Garlic: A nature's wonder drug, garlic has a long list of health benefits. It lowers your cholesterol level, reverses high blood pressure, boosts your immune system, prevents fatigue, and prevents colds and flu and many other benefits.
  
  Besides this, garlic is used as a spice in various cuisines to add that extra flavor and taste. A roasted garlic flavor can add zest to a dish without being offensive.
  
  


• Cloves: Prevents toothache, relieves ingestion, controls diarrhea, has healing properties
  
  


• Chilli powder: Chillies are excellent source of Vitamin, A, B, C and E with minerals like molybdenum, manganese, folate, potassium, thiamin, and copper. Chilli contains seven times more vitamin C than orange.
  
  


• Asafetida: This is often used as a digestive. It has a strong odor and a slight garlicky flavor. Do not taste this raw - it is NOT a pleasant experience. Using it in the recommended recipe however, works wonders. Just a pinch is used for cooking in dishes with lentils and beans.
  

I understand how difficult it can be to hunt for specialized Indian spices food and herbs in USA when you live a time pressed life. I recently came across SpicePlaza, an online food store that stocks this and can deliver your order right at your door steps. It’s credible and sells only branded food. I would rate is as the best online grocery store in USA. They even specialize in packed food for those who don’t have the time to cook a meal from scratch. So go tickle your taste buds while pampering your health.