Uncover the versatility of traditional Indian ingredients
Rediscover your heritage and embrace culinary diversity in your meals
Indian culinary traditions hold a wealth of wisdom offering an array of traditional superfoods that have nourished generations for centuries. From grains like amaranth and millet to healing spices like turmeric and fenugreek these ingredients not only provide sustenance but also impart depth and flavour to our cuisine.
Let us embark on an adventure and explore how we can incorporate these age-old superfoods into our everyday diet.
Amaranth- The Regal Grain
Amaranth, known as "Rajgira" in Hindi is a distant cousin of quinoa and a grain that can be utilised in various culinary creations. Its tiny grains possess a flavour making it an excellent addition to both sweet and savoury dishes alike. With amaranth, you can create delicious breakfast porridges, energy-boosting granolas or protein-packed laddoos. Additionally, you can incorporate the flour into your baking endeavours for a lovely touch to cookies, breads or even rotis, parathas and pooris.
Pearl Millet- The Culinary Marvel
Pearl Millet, commonly referred to as "Bajra" in India is an overlooked gem that deserves the top spot in our kitchens. This grain which is free from gluten has an earthy taste. It serves as an alternative to rice or as a foundation for pilafs and stir-fries. You can turn millet into nutritious upma or khichdi, create crispy and flavorful rotis and use its flour to make pancakes and dosas. Let Bajra elevate your cooking creations by introducing you to a world of flavours and textures.
Turmeric- The Golden Spice
Turmeric, known as "Haldi" in India is a spice that's famous for its warm flavour and bright yellow colour. Apart from its health benefits, turmeric adds a touch of magic to any dish it is used in. Enhance the flavours and appearance of your curries, lentil soups or vegetable stir fries with a teaspoon of this spice. Incorporate turmeric into your routine by brewing comforting cups of milk or adding it to smoothies for an extra pop of colour and goodness.
Fenugreek- The Fragrant Herb
Fenugreek, also known as "Methi" in Hindi is a herb, with a flavour that adds depth to numerous dishes. Whether used fresh or dried in curries, dals or stews the leaves impart a characteristic aroma.
Fenugreek seeds have a combination of bitter and nutty flavours making them an excellent choice, for enhancing the taste of spice blends, pickles and chutneys. You can also try sprinkling crushed fenugreek seeds on your bread or incorporating fenugreek leaves into your stuffed parathas and to make methi mathri for a delightful aromatic touch and crispy flavour.
Do you know any other traditional ingredients? Let us know in the comments