Indian cuisine is an extraordinary fusion of exciting flavours and tastes. In addition to this, it has a treasure of superfoods that are tasty, nutrient-rich and offer a number of health benefits. Superfoods are an excellent way to achieve good health as they help reduce inflammation and boost your immune system.
In this blog, we will explore the different Indian superfoods and the ways in which you can consume them. Keep reading to discover how these foods can bring good health and vitality to you.
1. Coconut
Coconut is an amazing fruit that is low in carbohydrates and high in fat and fibre. A good source of minerals like manganese, iron, copper, and selenium, it helps increase bone health and protect from cell damage, in addition to weight loss.
Coconut flesh can be consumed either raw or can be used for cooking a variety of dishes. It can also be used for making delicious sweets and desserts.
One convenient way to get the benefits of coconut is through its oil. Coconut oil can be used for cooking a variety of dishes, thereby infusing its unique taste and essential nutrients to your dishes.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric is an amazing Indian superfood that has many medicinal and health benefits. The curcumin in turmeric is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent which prevents chronic illnesses.
Turmeric powder can be consumed by adding it to different rice recipes, curries and in tea. It can also be added to milk to prepare a health drink known as golden milk.
3. Cinnamon
Known commonly as Dalchini in India, cinnamon is of two different types. One is Ceylon cinnamon and the other one is Cassia cinnamon. You can use cinnamon for weight loss as it regulates blood sugar, boosts your metabolism and controls your appetite.
One way to receive the benefits of this superfood is by adding cinnamon sticks to rice dishes like biryani. It can be ground to make spice mixes that are used for preparing various curries and side dishes. You can also consume cinnamon by adding it to desserts like laddoos and halwas.
4. Amla
Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is an amazing fruit that is a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants. It helps to boost the immune system, prevent chronic diseases and slows down the ageing process.
Amla is a versatile fruit that can be consumed in a variety of ways. This fruit can be used either raw or cooked. You can blend it to make Amla juice. You can cook it to make pickles as well as sweets like Amla Murabba.
5. Fenugreek
Fenugreek, or kasuri methi, is a wonderful herb with leaves and seeds that are equally nutritious and edible. It helps lower bad cholesterol levels, reduce cardiovascular risks and manage blood sugar levels.
Fenugreek leaves can be crushed to make sauces and prepare chutneys, soups and curries. The leaves can be mixed with whole wheat dough to prepare Methi Paratha. They can also be consumed by garnishing it with dishes like Palak Paneer and Butter Chicken.
You can consume fenugreek seeds after soaking it overnight in water, by sprouting it or by adding it to soups and curries.
6. Chickpeas
Known in India as Kabuli Chana, chickpeas is a legume that is a good source of protein, vitamins and minerals. It also has high fibre content which promotes good heart and digestive health, and controls blood sugar levels.
A common way to enjoy chickpeas is to make a Chana Masala curry. You can have it with rice or roti. It can also be consumed as a hummus dip or as a chaat. You can also make a salad with cooked chickpeas, vegetables and herbs.
Chickpea flour is a simpler way to consume this legume as it is a versatile flour that can be used in a variety of dishes. This flour is commonly known as besan or gram flour. It can be used to make sweets, pakoras and other evening snacks.
7. Rajma
Red kidney beans, or Rajma, is a kidney-shaped bean that is high in fibre and protein. These beans help in tissue repair, weight management, kidney health and also increase bone strength.
Rajma beans can be made into a curry and served with basmati rice. This dish is popularly known as Rajma Chawal. The Rajma curry can also be enjoyed with roti or chapati.
Another way to consume this beans is by cooking it with rice to make Rajma pulao. You can also make Rajma tikki and enjoy it as a snack.
8. Black-Eyed Beans
Black-eyed peas beans are a type of beans that are part of the legume family. They are an excellent source of protein and fiber. They also have a good amount of vitamins and minerals.
These beans can be consumed as a curry by cooking with spices and vegetables. They can be added to chaats or made into pakoras.
As you can see, there are a number of superfoods that are a part of the Indian culinary heritage. They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fibre. Cooking and consuming them in a specific way helps you enjoy the unique taste and aroma of these foods while achieving good health and well-being.
Refer this blog while exploring the different ways to consume Indian superfoods and benefit from the abundant health they provide.
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