Indian cuisine is quite popular around the world for its rich, aromatic, and flavourful spices. Indian spices play a crucial role in Indian Cuisine not only it adds an amazing taste in Indian food but also gives many health benefits as well. The use of Indian spices in Indian food is dated back thousands of years. Indian houses contain an Indian spice box called masala dabba in which all the Indian spices which are being used on a daily basis are present. Indian spices contain medicinal properties and have also been used in Ayurvedic medicines as it contains essential oils, vitamins and minerals that are good for the body. Some important points to understand the role of Indian spices in Indian food in Wollongong are:
- Adding Flavour in every dish: The Indian spices are famous for their amazing flavors add up in the Indian dishes. They add richness and depth to dishes such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom and cloves etc.
- Perservativeness: Many Indian spices have preservatives in it which helps in increasing the shelf life of any food item by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. Some Indian spices which have preservatives in it are mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, asafoetida.
- Digestive Aid: Many Indian spices have digestive property which helps in keeping your digestive health in good condition and also helps in alleviating any problem related to digestion. Like fennel seeds helps in digestion of food, ginger helps in soothing the stomach problem and elevates nausea.
- Medicinal Properties: Indian spices not only add amazing flavors in the food but it has many medicinal properties. Indian spices have been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda for their medicinal properties. For example, fenugreek is believed to help regulate blood sugar levels, while cardamom is thought to improve respiratory health.
- Cooling Agents: Many Indian spices are used as cooling agents to balance out the spiciness of the dishes. For example mint is used as a cooling herb in chutney or raita formation. Coriander leaves also add freshness with its citrusy flavor.
- Antioxidant Properties: Many Indian spices are rich in antioxidant properties which helps in protecting the body from oxidant stress and help prevent cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Types of Indian Spices
India is known for its rich and diverse culinary heritage, which relies heavily on a variety of spices used in Indian dishes at Indian restaurants in Sydney. Here are some commonly used Indian spices:
- Cumin: It is popular in Indian dishes for its warm and earthy flavor. It adds depth to the dishes.
- Coriander: Coriander has a fresh and citrusy flavor that adds a delight touch to dishes. The seeds and leaves are both used in cooking.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is yellow coloured powerful Indian spice. It adds a warm, earthy and slightly bitter flavor.
- Cardamom: There are two types, green and black. They impart a sweet, floral flavor and are often used in desserts and chai.
- Cinnamon: Adds a sweet and warm aroma to dishes, commonly used in both sweet and savory preparations.
For more understanding regarding Indian spices and Indian food cooking you can check for a good Indian Restaurant in Wollongong.