Spices & Masalas
A spice is a seed, fruit, root, bark, or other plant substance primarily used for flavoring or coloring food. Spices are distinguished from herbs, which are the leaves, flowers, or stems of plants used for flavoring or as a garnish.
Either a blend of dried spices or a spice paste, masala often includes garlic, ginger, chile paste, tomato and onion, along with coriander, cinnamon, cumin, cloves and cardamom. Familiar here thanks to chicken tikka masala, its spiced, flavor-forward profile makes it a go-to spice blend for many Indian-accented dishes.
- Cinnamon Lowers Blood Sugar Levels and Has a Powerful Anti-Diabetic Effect
- Sage Can Improve Brain Function and Memory
- Peppermint Relieves IBS Pain and May Reduce Nausea
- Turmeric Contains Curcumin, a Substance With Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Effects
- Holy Basil Helps Fight Infections and Boosts Immunity
- Cayenne Pepper Contains Capsaicin, Which Helps Reduce Appetite and May Have Anti-Cancer Properties
- Ginger Can Treat Nausea and Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties
- Fenugreek Improves Blood Sugar Control
- Rosemary Can Help Prevent Allergies and Nasal Congestion
- Garlic Can Combat Sickness and Improve Heart Health