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India is a country where spices thrive, and the sheer number and variety of these herbs and spice plants always catch people off guard. Spices are a staple in any Indian kitchen, and for a good reason: they're required ingredients in many dishes, from the humble curry to the most decadent dessert. The adaptability of spices is one of their many advantages. The Ayurvedic tradition has always relied on Indian spices and herbs. Let's shift focus to saunf or fennel seeds, a unique character in the spice community. Although these unassuming seeds are often used as mouth fresheners, they also have a special place for preparing some of India's most delicious dishes. Regular intake of this subtle seed has several positive effects.
Experts agree that fennel seeds are good for you since they can lower your blood pressure, eliminate excess fluid from your body, improve eyesight, alleviate asthma symptoms, and clean up your digestive system.
Fresh fennel seeds, Image Source: Instagram
Many people around the country appreciate the taste of fennel seeds at their freshest when they are chewed raw and their delicious liquid is released. Indian cuisine extensively uses saunf, so if you're seeking methods to incorporate it into your diet, keep reading.
Salads and soups
Salad seasoned with fennel seeds, Image Source: Unsplash
Fresh fennel seeds are a great way to add flavour and a pleasant aroma to your favourite soups and broths. Fennel seeds, pepper, and cinnamon can flavour a simple potato, chickpea, and vegetable soup. You can also include oregano for more punch. Likewise, just a little on top of salads may completely transform the taste.
The decadent delicacies
This powerhouse spice is used in many dishes in different parts of the country, from the traditional pancharatni dal to the more exotic hariyali makai stuffed padwal, Rogan josh, and desserts like malpua. Take inspiration from any of these dishes and experiment with one by yourself.
Baked treats
Although traditional cakes aren't part of Indian cuisine, there is always room for adding in an era of fusion. Small amounts of fennel seeds can provide a lot of flavour to larger, more substantial, savoury baked goods. Another option can be adding in the dough of your favourite Indian flatbreads.
Roasted is optimal
Roast a tablespoon of fennel seeds in an even layer on a hot tawa, then grind them up lightly for use in any number of recipes. The easiest way to use them is in a raita with chopped onions, salt, and pepper.
Chai
Herbal fennel tea, Image Source: Instagram
Indians love chai! Then how can one miss having chai or tea made with fennel seeds? It is the simplest way to have this spice. Freshly made fennel tea with is one of our favourite things in the world. Just boil water, add a teaspoon of saunf, turn off the flame and let the seeds steep. Stain it and have this healthy saunf chai. Another way is by dissolving half a teaspoon of fennel seeds in a glass of water and drinking it regularly throughout the day. You can find these in some people's daily green tea bags.
It's time to put that newfound knowledge into action by grinding up some fennel seeds and adding them to savoury and sweet dishes. Enjoy!
