Panch Phoron, also known as Panch masala, Padkaune masala, or Panch phutana, is a fragrant spice mix from Eastern Indian cuisine. This five-spice mixture is also an important spice blend in Bengali cuisine. Panch phoron is used in a variety of Bengali recipes. This spice blend is colourful and appealing. 'Panch' means five while 'phoron' indicates tempering in Bengali. As a result, the five aromatic spices are cooked in oil until they sputter or crackle. The spices are bloomed in heated oil or ghee (clarified butter), and this technique of tempering spices in oil is also known as tadka, chaunk, or vaghar in Hindi.
The five-spice mixture is used as a seasoning in foods such as khichuri, egg curry, fish curry, and various vegetable preparations. It not only improves the flavour of the dish but also improves overall health.
Benefits Of Panch Phoron
Panch phoron is prepared from high-quality ingredients that are abundant in vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Individually, each of the ingredients is highly healthy and is used as a home remedy for a variety of common disorders. Let's look at some of the health benefits of panch phoron, often known as Indian five-spice powder.
1. Enhances Cardiac Health
Panch phoron's components contain phenolic compounds with strong antioxidant properties. These spices protect the heart and blood arteries from plaque and lipid damage. These antioxidants have the potential to prevent or lessen the occurrence of cardiovascular disease. In the long run, regular use of five-spice may provide some heart health benefits.
2. Reduces The Chance Of Cancer
The antioxidant-rich components in panch phoron prevent DNA damage caused by oxidative stress and free radicals, lowering the risk of cancer if consumed on a regular basis.
3. Strengthens Intestinal Health
Cumin is a stomach-friendly spice that is frequently used as a home treatment for a variety of digestive ailments. It aids digestion and relieves gas and bloating. Cumin also has antibacterial compounds that can help fight harmful germs in the intestines. Panch phoron, when consumed on a regular basis, can improve digestive health.
4. Combats Tissue Injury
According to research, these spices also reduce tissue damage and inflammation in the body caused by excessive blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
5. Anti-Diabetic
Panch phoron spices, particularly fenugreek and nigella seeds, are recognised to have anti-diabetic qualities. Panch phoron is a great addition to their diet since regular ingestion of the five-spice blend may enhance blood sugar levels.
Panch Phoron Recipe
- Fenugreek, nigella seeds, cumin, black mustard, and fennel seeds are the five primary spices required to make panch phoron.
- Take one teaspoon of each spice. If you like, you can lower the amount of fenugreek because it can taste bitter in excess.
- You can also add radhuni or ajmod to the mix if you want.
- In the sun, clean and dry the ingredients.
- Combine them and store them in an airtight jar.
- You may also dry roast them and powder them. Use the mixture in place of garam masala.
To gain the full benefits of panch phoron, include this strong spice blend into your daily cooking. It's great in subjis and curries, salad dressings, bread dough, and roasts.