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Do you have those moments when you get tempted by the hue of Kashmiri Rogan Josh? If you nod your head in agreement, here is ratan jot for you. Yes, this underrated Indian spice is the one which infuses that rich crimson colour to culinary fares like Rogan Josh. Ratanjot, also known as "Alkanet Root," is a spice used in Indian cuisine as a natural food colour and to flavour a few dishes such as tandoori chicken. It is also referred to as a Physic nut in English and scientifically as 'Alkanna tincoria,' and is an Ayurvedic plant found in the hills of North India and the Mediterranean region. With a fascinating profile, this spice deserves a place in your kitchen arsenal. It can be used as a powder, oil, Ratan jot masala, and in various other applications.
One spice with diverse use
Ratan jot roots have medicinal properties and are used to cure wounds, fever, and diseases, while the oil of this spice has cosmetic and therapeutic uses.
Promotes cardiac health
It promotes immune and cardiovascular health. Ratan jot's different components cleanse the bloodstreams of several poisons and toxic chemicals. It enhances the health and function of the heart and even accelerates blood circulation.
Alleviate sleep woes
Traditional medicine specialists believe that the vital Ratan jot oil derived from Alkanet roots aids in treating insomnia and other sleeping disorders. Experts recommend rubbing this oil on your head and around your nose to leave a calming effect, enhancing your sleep quality.
Dried Ratan jot, Image Source: Amazon.com
Relives stomach issues
Ratan jot seeds are commonly consumed by Himalayan inhabitants. Half or one Ratan jot seed per day is good, particularly for stomach issues. These seeds can be used to alleviate constipation. However, three or more can cause nausea and even diarrhoea. Though the herb is not toxic, you should use caution when consuming it. Large amounts cause more harm than good. Thus, before deciding on a dosage, always seek medical advice.
A good detoxifier
Every morning, drink a concoction of boiled Ratanjot roots and water. This is especially beneficial if a blood-hormone imbalance, eczema, or other skin conditions. You can also prepare a Kaadha by boiling Alkanet roots with neem leaves and Kattha/Khair tree wood. Drink this twice or three times a week to aid in the removal of toxins from your body.
A natural food colour
Sauté a few Ratan Jot extracts or Alkanet roots in a bit of oil or ghee. Strain the liquid and use it to colour food. For centuries, people have used this to prepare recipes like Rogan Josh and tandoori chicken. It has a dark crimson hue.
How to use it for cooking
The root is relatively large, with brittle, nearly paper-like coatings. Everything is usable. Ratan jot is not water soluble. Fortunately, it dissolves in oil, alcohol, and ether.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp ratan jot
- 2 tbsp ghee or cooking oil
Ratan jot infused cooking oil, Image source: shudhonline.com
Method
- In a frying pan, melt the ghee over medium heat
- Pour in the ratan jot, mix, and reduce the heat
- Give the ratan jot a two-minute fry
- Remove the spice remnants from the crimson oil and strain it through a metal filter
According to your recipe's instructions, use this red oil.
Alternatively:
Wrap the ratan jot bark in a muslin. In a frying pan heat pure ghee by keeping the flame a medium setting. The muslin and any other spices and aromatics you're using should be dropped into the hot ghee. Fry for 2 minutes, then remove the muslin sack and set aside. Drizzle the crimson, fragrant oil over your food.