India is definitely a land of spices. For ages, it has successfully harvested various kinds of spices to bless the nation with aromatic flavour. Spices are not just for adding flavour or elevating the taste of your dishes; they also have a plethora of uses and medicinal benefits that are highly crucial for the human body. As the season changes, the requirement for food consumption also changes due to the importance of seasonal produce.
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The monsoon season, a time of rejuvenation and relief from the scorching summer heat, brings with it a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The increased humidity and sudden drops in temperature can lead to various health issues, including digestive problems, respiratory infections, and weakened immunity. This is where spices, with their potent therapeutic properties, come into play.
Ginger
Ginger or adrak, is a must-have spice during the monsoon season due to its warming and medicinal properties. Renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant features, ginger helps combat colds, sore throats, and digestive issues prevalent in damp weather. Its spicy, aromatic flavour enhances teas, soups, and stir-fries, providing a comforting warmth. Used fresh, dried, or powdered, ginger can be infused in hot water for a soothing tea, added to curries for depth, or mixed into honey for a natural remedy.
Tumeric
Turmeric is a must-have spice during the monsoon season due to its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Known for its vibrant yellow colour and earthy flavour, turmeric enhances immunity, which is crucial during the rainy season when infections are prevalent. It's commonly used in warm, comforting dishes like soups, stews, and teas. Additionally, turmeric can be mixed with milk to create "haldi doodh," a soothing drink that alleviates colds and boosts overall health.
Black Pepper
Black pepper or kaali mirch, is a must-have spice during the monsoon season due to its warming properties and robust flavour. It enhances immunity and aids digestion, making it perfect for combating monsoon ailments. Known for its pungent, slightly spicy taste, black pepper is versatile in use. Add it to soups, stews, and teas to boost warmth and flavour, or sprinkle it on fresh salads and fruits for a zesty kick. Its antibacterial properties also help in preventing infections, making it an essential spice for rainy days.
Cloves
Laung of cloves: rich in eugenol, cloves provide a warm, spicy flavour and possess antiviral and antibacterial qualities, making them ideal for warding off seasonal ailments. They can be used in a variety of ways: infused in teas, incorporated into savoury dishes, or added to desserts. Cloves enhance digestion, relieve respiratory issues, and provide warmth, making them perfect for monsoon wellness.
Caraway
Caraway or ajwain, is a must-have spice during the monsoon season and boasts a warm, earthy flavour with a hint of sweetness. Its aromatic seeds enhance digestive health, a crucial benefit during the rainy season's tendency to cause digestive issues. Known for its carminative properties, caraway eases bloating and indigestion. Use it to flavour hearty soups, stews, and monsoon favourites like pakoras and spicy curries.
Cinnamon
It boosts immunity, aids digestion, and helps combat the common cold and flu, which are prevalent in damp weather. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities make it ideal for monsoon cuisine. Use cinnamon in teas, desserts, and savoury dishes to enhance flavour and warmth. A dash of cinnamon in your morning tea or coffee, or sprinkled over oatmeal, adds a comforting, health-boosting touch, making it essential for rainy days.
Cumin
Cumin is a must-have spice during the monsoon season due to its numerous health benefits and warming properties. Known for its distinctive earthy and nutty flavour, cumin aids digestion, which is particularly beneficial during the damp, humid weather when digestive issues are common. It can be used in various ways, such as in soups, stews, and teas, or sprinkled over salads and roasted vegetables.