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Spices are the essence of Indian cuisine. We like spices in our desserts, drinks, savoury dishes, and beverages. While some people see problems with having spicy food all the time, it is the magic of moderation and combination that works for our cuisine. The spices in our food are actually beneficial to our health in many ways. And when it comes to adding flavour and a touch of health to your meals, cardamom is a spice that truly stands out.
This aromatic spice, derived from the seeds of Elettaria cardamomum in the ginger family, doesn't just elevate the taste of your dishes but also offers a myriad of health benefits. From aiding digestion to promoting heart health, cardamom is a true culinary treasure that can transform your meals into nutritious delights.
In Indian cuisine, a touch of cardamom is added to curries, spice mixes like goda or garam masala, desserts like rasmalai and kheer, tea like kahwah or masala chai, sweets like barfi and pedha, and more. It is also used to flavour rice dishes like ghee rice, pulao, and steamed rice. Let's discuss five compelling reasons to include cardamom in your daily diet.
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Good Digestion
Cardamom has been revered for its digestive properties for centuries. Its essential oils, particularly one called cineole, help soothe the stomach, alleviate indigestion, and reduce flatulence. A cup of cardamom-infused tea after a meal can provide a natural way to ease digestive discomfort and promote healthy gut function.
Promotes Heart-Health
Cardamom's potential heart benefits are worth savouring. The antioxidants present in cardamom help lower blood pressure and improve overall heart health. By including this spice in your diet, you're inviting a touch of wellness into your cardiovascular system. And since it is a common spice used in our day-to-day cooking, it is not difficult at all.
Blood Sugar Support
Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for overall well-being. Cardamom has shown promise in helping regulate blood sugar levels. Its compounds improve insulin sensitivity, making it a valuable addition for those managing diabetes or seeking to prevent blood sugar imbalances.
Immune-Boosting Properties
The essential oils and antioxidants in cardamom contribute to its potential immune-boosting properties. Incorporating cardamom into your meals or sipping on cardamom-infused beverages can provide your body with extra ammunition to defend against infections and illnesses.
Anti-Inflammatory
Chronic inflammation is associated with various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases and arthritis. Cardamom contains compounds like borneol and eucalyptol that exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. By including cardamom in your food, you're embracing a natural way to potentially reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
How To Add Cardamom To Your Diet?
Add a dash of ground cardamom to your morning smoothies, oatmeal, or yoghurt for a sweet, fragrant flavour. Add cardamom pods to hot water to create a soothing tea—elaichi chai is the answer to the morning blues. In gravies, you can add cardamom tadka as a part of garam masala. It also goes well with biryani. For a sweet touch, mix cardamom into baked goods like muffins, kheer, halwa, cookies, or cakes. From puddings to ice creams, cardamom is a delicious addition to all your desserts. Whether in savoury dishes or sweet treats, this spice effortlessly merges with your culinary creations while being healthy.
From its warm, aromatic fragrance to its impressive health benefits, cardamom is undoubtedly a spice that deserves a prominent place in your diet. Whether sprinkled on oatmeal, stirred into curries, or infused into beverages, cardamom can effortlessly transform your meals into both delicious and nutritious experiences. So, spice up your plate with this versatile gem and savour the wellness it brings to every bite.
