Indian Restaurants: The Ultimate Destination for Cooling Spices

May 20
11:37

2024

Old World

Old World

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One of life’s unparalleled pleasures is savoring Indian cuisine at a charming Indian restaurant in a foreign city, especially in London. The exotic, nourishing, and captivating flavors of Indian food have gained immense popularity worldwide. This article delves into the cooling properties of spices used in Indian cuisine, making it a perfect choice for the summer season.

The Allure of Indian Cuisine

Indian cuisine is renowned for its complex,Indian Restaurants: The Ultimate Destination for Cooling Spices Articles varied, and subtle cooking processes that result in well-balanced and nutritious dishes. The enchanting flavors and health benefits of Indian food make it a global favorite. In London, Indian restaurants strive to maintain the authenticity of Indian cuisine by using traditional herbs and spices.

Cooling Spices for the Summer

With the arrival of summer, it's essential to understand the cooling properties of spices used in Indian recipes. These spices not only enhance the taste but also offer numerous health benefits. Here are some key cooling spices and their properties:

Mint

Mint is naturally cooling and is not only a remedy for bad breath but also a versatile ingredient in Indian chutneys, marinades, curry pastes, and refreshing summer drinks. Its cooling effect makes it an ideal spice for the summer season.

Coriander

Coriander is a refreshing bitter herb that counteracts the often-spicier ingredients used in Indian cuisine. It is commonly used in curries, salads, and chutneys, providing a cooling effect on the body.

Turmeric

Turmeric is renowned for its healing properties and is considered one of the best spices for boosting immunity. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help cool overheated summer skin. Turmeric is a staple in Indian cooking and is used in various dishes for its health benefits.

Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is extremely high in antioxidants. It is used in various Indian recipes, including chicken marinated in holy basil, pumpkin seeds, lime, and palm sugar, making it a delicious summer barbecue option.

Cardamom

Cardamom is a fragrant spice used in kababs, curries, and cooling Indian drinks and ice creams. It is one of the most important spices in Indian cuisine, known for its aromatic properties.

Cumin

Cumin is an essential ingredient in summer drinks like jal jeera and pannas, as well as in curries and starch preparations. It has anti-carminative properties and provides a post-digestive cooling effect on the body.

Ginger

Fresh ginger has a cooling post-digestive effect on the body and positively impacts appetite. It is widely used in Indian cooking for its health benefits and flavor.

Cooling Foods in Indian Cuisine

In addition to spices, several foods are known for their cooling properties and are commonly used in Indian cooking. These include:

  • Pomegranate
  • Tomatoes
  • Cucumber
  • Rose petals and rose water
  • Tender coconut and its water
  • Bell peppers
  • Fenugreek (methi)
  • Lime and lemon
  • Honey

These ingredients are used in various Indian recipes to provide a cooling effect, making them perfect for the summer season.

Conclusion

Indian cuisine, with its rich array of cooling spices and ingredients, is an excellent choice for the summer season. The well-cooked recipes at Indian restaurants in London not only offer a delightful culinary experience but also help keep the body cool and healthy. So, indulge in the bewitching taste and enriching properties of Indian spices and enjoy a refreshing summer.

For more information on the health benefits of Indian spices, you can refer to Healthline and BBC Good Food.

Interesting Stats

  • Mint: Studies show that mint can help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and indigestion (source).
  • Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can improve brain function and lower the risk of brain diseases (source).
  • Cumin: Rich in iron, one teaspoon of ground cumin contains 1.4 mg of iron, which is 17.5% of the daily recommended intake for adults (source).

By incorporating these cooling spices and foods into your diet, you can enjoy a refreshing and healthy summer.