As winter sets in, there are a few dishes that give warmth during the cold nights, and nothing is better than a big bowl of Paya soup. This traditional, nutrient-dense soup is made from lamb or goat trotters (paya) and is loved in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine for its rich, flavourful broth and health benefits.
Paya soup is a warming tonic packed with nutrients to keep you energised and resilient through the cold season. With collagen, gelatin, calcium and essential minerals, according to a study published in, Food Nutrition Research 2017, paya soup is good for joint health and strengthens bones and skin, which are especially important when winter can drain your body of energy.
Beyond the nutrients, the slow-cooked broth of Paya soup has a deep savoury flavour that is both satisfying and restorative so that you can enjoy it as a meal or even breakfast in winter. Traditional spices like ginger, garlic and black pepper add warmth to each sip and further boost its health benefits by aiding digestion and circulation. Whether you have it on its own or with a piece of naan or rice, Paya soup is a wholesome way to stay warm and healthy through the winter.
Reasons Why Paya Soup Is Ideal For Winter
Provides Natural Collagen
As per a study published in Medicina (Kaunas) 2021, Paya soup is rich in collagen from animal bones and connective tissue. Collagen is good for joint health, which is very important during winter when the cold weather makes our joints feel stiffer. This nutrient is also good for skin elasticity and hydration to combat the dryness of winter.
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Boosts Immunity
According to a study published in Food Science and Biotechnology 2017, the long, slow cooking process of Paya soup extracts minerals like zinc, calcium and magnesium, which are good for the body’s defence system. The spices used, ginger and black pepper, are also known to have antimicrobial properties that fight against common colds and flu.
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Supports Good For Digestion
Paya soup is gentle to the stomach and has gelatin that soothes the digestive tract. According to a study published in, Food Nutrition Research 2017, the broth is easy to digest, so it is good for those feeling unwell or have lost appetite. Ginger and garlic also aid in digestion and relieve digestive discomfort during winter.
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Supports Bone Health
Paya soup is rich in bone-strengthening minerals like calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. Winter is the time when the bones need extra support, and this mineral-rich broth supports bone density and structure. Paya soup can also help with joint pain caused by cold winter weather.
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Helps With Muscle Recovery
For those who are into winter sports or activities, Paya soup provides proteins and amino acids for muscle repair and recovery. The nourishing broth helps to repair tissues and build muscle strength.
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Provide Warmth And Energy
As per a study published in, Medicina (Kaunas) 2021, it has high fat and protein content, making it a great source of energy. The warm broth and spices will increase your body's internal temperature, which is perfect for cold weather. The spices will also enhance circulation and keep you warm and active.
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Improves Respiratory Health
Paya soup, when spiced with black pepper and garlic, can help relieve congestion and clear nasal passages. This is especially helpful for those who have winter respiratory issues. The steam from the soup will soothe the respiratory tract and provide relief from cough or sore throat while hydrating the airways.
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Having a bowl of Paya soup in winter is more than just a tasty, warm meal. The slow-cooked collagen, minerals and spices support immunity, joint and bone health and respiratory comfort. Whether you want to boost energy, improve digestion or just enjoy a cosy, satisfying soup, Paya has warmth and wellness in every sip. A winter classic, it is a time-tested remedy that combines seasonal nourishment, tradition and flavour, making winter wellness easy and delicious.