They say a good start to the day ensures that the whole day goes well. So what better way to make the day great than to have a delicious and healthy breakfast? As 2020 gets under way, having a healthy and nutritious breakfast should be a routine to set yourself up for a great day and year ahead. Making these healthy meals is an easy task if you have some simple recipes up your sleeve, so here are some simple and well-balanced breakfast meals that are sure to become your favourites this year!

Masala scrambled egg

A favourite around the world, scrambled eggs and toast is the perfect breakfast for people on the go who need a wholesome meal to start off the day. Making this meal is a simple as it sounds: simple beat two or more eggs along with a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Pour the eggs over a mixture of diced onions and tomatoes in a pan that has been cooked for a few minutes and gently pull the mixture apart as it cooks. When done, the scrambled eggs can either be spooned onto a plate or directly onto a slice of golden, toasted bread. Don’t forget to add some freshly ground On1y  Pepper Powder to the eggs for a spicy twist that lifts your day!

Breakfast egg muffins

There are days, however, when you may not even have the time to wait for the eggs to cook. For those rushed mornings, there is another solution that you can add to your balanced breakfast menu: breakfast muffins. Simply mix together beaten eggs, chopped onion, tomatoes, spinach (to keep the muffins soft) in a bowl with a pinch of salt and pour the mixture into the muffin mould. Just before you put it into the oven to bake for 15-20 minutes, sprinkle a bit of On1y Basil or On1y Mixed Herbs on top of the mixture for an exotic touch. Remember to let the muffins cool before you store them and when it’s time for breakfast the next day, just stick them in the microwave and enjoy your breakfast in a cup!

Savoury oatmeal

There are some days, however, when you have time on your hands and would like to have a hearty breakfast meal. Oatmeal serves this purpose perfectly while also being the best breakfast for health. While it is great all on its own, there are ways to make it even better with a few simple ingredients. A mix of oatmeal, chopped red bell peppers, onions and salt cooked together and garnished with chopped spring onions is one of the best ways to make sure you follow a balanced diet for breakfast while also fuelling your body for a great day ahead. To make it even healthier, you could skip the salt during the cooking process and grind in some On1y Pink Salt just before serving. If you want a fiery start to the day, then just opt for a quick sprinkle of On1y Chilli Flakes. Either way, your perfect breakfast is set!

 

There you have it, some of the best healthy breakfasts to have this new year as you work towards building a new you! Pair these preparations with a nutritious fruit-based smoothie and you’re sure to have a well-balanced breakfast every day for the rest of the year! Keep flavouring and keep moving forward!

For everyone who’s grown in an Indian household, one thing that they can relate to is a magic box that grandmas and moms use in the kitchen. It is that magic box that makes food tasty and brings out the flavors of Indian cooking. The mystery box is a pandora of the spices sourced from all over India. India is one of the spice capitals of the world. Hence, spices are the heartbeat of Indian cooking. Spices just not add the heat, it rather enhances the flavor, making each dish aromatic and an experience in itself. In a wide array of spices, there are 7 essential spices that are a staple for Indian cooking.

1. Black Pepper

There is no denying that Black Pepper is the king of spices. Most of the Indian dishes would be unequipped if they lack the pungent taste and aroma of Black Pepper. These tiny little seeds are used to add the needed fire and spice in your meals. Rich in nutrients, Black pepper comes with a lot of health benefits. It helps in improving digestion, increasing metabolism and treating skin problems. Black Pepper is the go-to spice if you want to achieve a perfect health-taste balance.


2.Turmeric

Turmeric is known as a golden spice as it is widely used in Indian cooking because of the color and aroma it lends to the food. It is also known for its extensive health benefits. In the Indian style of cooking, turmeric is usually added at the beginning and sautéed with other ingredients such as onions, ginger, and garlic.

Turmeric

3.Cumin

Cumin seeds are small, crescent-shaped seeds majorly used in their whole form.  Having an earthy flavor and strong aroma, cumin seeds lend a smoky taste to the dishes such as da tadka and many Indian dishes. The spice is rich in manganese and also contain anti-carcinogenic properties.

Cumin

4. Coriander

Coriander plays a vital role in Indian cooking and can be used in its whole or ground form. It has a strong aroma and is one of the most common ingredients used in making gravy and curry recipes. It is one of the most effective ingredients to help in proper blood circulation in the body. Apart from that, its cooling properties help in digestion.

Coriander

5.Cardamom

One of the essentials in Indian cooking, Cardamom has a strong, sweet flavor with mild pungency. It has a pleasant aroma with a hint of mint and is used in meat-based dishes, gravies and Indian desserts such as kheer, halwa. It helps to improve your digestion and lowering blood pressure levels as it has immense health benefits.
Cardamom

6.Cinnamon

Having a sweet and earthy flavor, cinnamon powder is mild in taste and most suitable for Biryani, Pulao in most parts of India. It is also widely baked desserts like baklava, churros, cakes, pies and cinnamon rolls. A lot of blends like Chinese Five Spice Seasoning, Garam Masala, and Curry Powder also uses cinnamon. Plus, it adds to the sweetness of your chutneys, jams, and jellies.

Cinnamon

7.Nutmeg and Mace

Nutmeg and mace have an earthy, slightly spicy and delicate flavor. It is used in both sweet and savory dishes such as Mughlai cuisine, soups, and desserts like cakes, pies, custards, and puddings. Its oil is also used to treat cough and digestive ailments.

Nutmeg and Mace

With the right blend of spices in proper proportions, Indian food becomes an experience and elevates not only your body but also your soul. It is the spices that make people all over the world become fans of Indian cooking. It also helps in improving our physical and mental health. From the times of our forefathers to modern times, spices have been a key element of Indian cooking, passed on from generation to generation. With On1y, you can now buy spices in its raw form and grind it into powder with its twist pack or just buy grounded spices with just a click or walk to a store away. Get cooking with On1y.

It is a universal fact that certain scrumptious dishes have a therapeutic effect on us. From feel-good home food to flavoursome traditional recipes that instantly take you back to times filled with family, fun and fond memories, good food is what connects us all. However, the one thing common to a main-dish served in Mexico and a sinful dessert made in the Philippines is the humble banana leaf. Apart from being used as a base to eat your food on, there are many other uses of banana leaves that have taken global cuisines by storm. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Tamales


Hailing from the culture-rich region of Central America, Tamales is a wholesome steamed dish of boneless pork, heavenly plum tomatoes and fresh ancho chiles wrapped in a blanket of nourishing banana leaves.

Som Nuer


Treat your taste buds to fried beef cutlets preserved in aromatic banana leaves – a staple dish served in Thailand.

Cochinita pibil


Next time you visit Mexico, make sure you indulge in mouth-watering Cochinita pibil – a whole suckling pig roasted in nutritious banana leaves.

Barbequed snapper with sambal belacan


Snapper seasoned with delicious belacan dressing and barbequed with banana leaves is a popular dish served in Australian fine-dining restaurants.

Luwombo


Why not indulge in some African cuisine by opting for this mouth-watering dish from Uganda? Luwombo – A popular dish cooked in the holiday season – is a generous serving of fish and meat wrapped in a blanket of banana leaves.

Pasteles


This dish is often prepared as a Christmas tradition in Puerto Rico. It features wholesome pork and fresh green bananas steamed with banana leaves. Yummy.

Sticky rice


A sweet and savoury dish hailing from the kitchens of South East Asia, sticky rice seasoned with spicy chicken, tuna or mixed vegetables and steamed with banana leaves is a must-try for all food fanatics.

Sea bass grilled in banana leaf


Take a walk down the streets of Indonesia, and there is a high chance you will bump into a street-food cart grilling some delicious sea bass, wrapped in a banana leaf. This staple dish is vibrant in colour and full of flavour.

Bibingka


A popular dessert in the Philippines – Bibingka is a coconut cake baked in a lining of banana leaves. This scrumptious dish scales high on both the health meter and taste points.

Ela Ada


Of course, we had to add an Indian dish to this list! Ela Ada is a low-calorie sweet dish from Kerala. Treat yourself to these mouth-watering rice pancakes stuffed with jaggery and coconut, steamed in a blanket of humble banana leaves.

Which of these dishes are going to be added to your must-try list? It is time you indulge in the various uses of banana leaves and treat your taste buds. Whatever be your favourite, make sure you enhance its taste with the magical flavours and aromatics of On1y featuring the 5 spices you can use in anything, and reach a blissful state of food coma!

Are you a true food fanatic? Does your day starts and ends with food? Are you a person who follows the mantra, “Live to eat?” If you have answered yes to these questions, then you are going to love these 5 movies. Get your popcorn popping and grab some cheese fries; curl up on your couch and get set to have a whole new delicious experience in the comfort of your home by binge watching these epic movies. Nothing would be more relaxing than watching the most entertaining movies of your favourite genre after a hectic and tiresome day. Eating is definitely an amazing experience but nothing beats watching, reading and talking about eating!
 
Here is a list of some of the most exciting movies, which will take you through exquisite cuisines and will make your taste buds water.
 

Big Night

If you drool over lasagne and if pizza is the love of your life, then this is the one you should go for. The story of two chef brothers who explore the Italian cuisine and provide you a relishing experience while making you crave for some exotic Italian food by the end of the movie.
 

 

Ratatouille

This movie is a delectable blend of ingredients and makes you hungry for more. The title by itself is foodie as it refers to a French dish. This anthropomorphic rat who is interested in cooking gives you visuals of delicious foods from all around the world. While the story actually revolves around cooking, the struggle of the cute rat to be accepted as a chef and his quirky gestures all through the movie makes it a lovely watch.
 

 

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

The name says it all. Who doesn’t love chocolates? This movie is a visual treat for all chocolate lovers. A movie with amazing visuals of tempting chocolate castles and a blend of diverse varieties ranging from white to dark chocolate will make you go grab a chocolate bar by the halftime.
 

 

Today’s Special

Moving from upscale New York restaurant to his family’s Indian restaurant, Tandoori Palace, Samir takes you through the experience of Tandoori Indian Cuisine, which is a mixture of  spices and will have you salivating throughout the movie.
 

 

Haute Cuisine

Following the personal cook to the President of France, Haute Cuisine offers viewers a delectable feast for the eyes through high class French cuisine. From the famous French baguette to the exotic desserts, the chef gives us a glance of all the amazing French delicacies.
 

 
These movies will not only make you familiar with the world-class cuisine, but will also make you want more food at the end of it. Go ahead and watch them.

Whenever someone says that they’re on a diet, we react in two ways- we laugh about it saying that diets are pointless or get curious about their regime and try it ourselves. The thing about Indian food is that there is so much to it. The mouth-watering flavors, extravagant colours and unique names will make any food lover lose control over their weight management.

Healthy food shouldn’t be defined by tasteless combinations of boiled vegetables and baked rice. You can transform healthy food to look and taste great. All it take is the love for food and the desire to cook up something unique. Here’s our list of classic Indian health foods that can tickle your taste buds.

Pulses

Regarded as one of the healthiest staples, pulses are loaded with Vitamins A, B, C and E. Moong is the best-known diet pulse as it helps maintain your slimming diet. Pulses also help in controlling the blood sugar levels in your body, enhance the flow of digestive enzymes and maintain cholesterol levels. Due to its many raw varieties, pulses can be cooked in numerous ways.

 

Our favourite dal dish: Yellow Dal – The classic dish is made with lentils and mustard. You can add further zing to the flavour with a sprinkle of parsley & chilli flakes.

 

Wheat

The staple food of North India, wheat is one of the most versatile foods. Popular main dishes that sprout out from well-cooked wheat include pooris, chapattis, bread and parathas. Considered as one of the best sources of carbohydrates, wheat is your go-to dish for a quick energy booster. You can never go wrong with a soft dough of wheat and a rolling pin!

 

Our favourite wheat dish: Dalia This classic healthy dish is made with broken wheat. Add cumin until it sizzles and fry ginger until it turns fragrant. To give this dish a twist, add oregano to it.

 

Maize

Regarded as one of the staple foods in many parts of the world, maize is eaten both raw and cooked. Talking about its nutritional value, it is full of protein and carbohydrates. It is a good source of Vitamin B, thiamine and folate. It helps in digestion as well as gives you glowing skin. Some of the popular dishes that involve this massively consumed staple are tortillas, corn fritters,corn pakodas etc.

 

Our favourite corn dish: Roasted Corn, Black Bean & Mango Salad– This simple, fresh-tasting salad adds delicious variety to grilled foods, such as salmon, halibut, chicken or pork. Browning the corn in a skillet gives it a nutty, caramelized flavor that contrasts with the sweetness of the mango. Sprinkle a healthy amount of On1y salad seasoning to give it a twist.

 

Ragi

Ragi or Finger millet is especially valuable as it contains the amino acid methionine. It has Vitamin A & Protein in abundance. Therefore, it is no wonder that Ragi is known for being a nutritional staple. Aside from that, ragi is used in making cakes, puddings, puttu, koozh and porridge.

 

Our Favourite Ragi dish: Idiyappam – It is an all-time favorite recipe at home. Serve it with sweet coconut milk and stew and it makes for a fantastic breakfast or dinner. Sprinkle it with On1y salt to maintain the sweet and salty combination.

 

Rice

The staple food of South India, rice is another extremely versatile food that can be blended to form a huge menu of healthy eats. Cultivated in various forms and types, rice can make for a full, healthy and delicious meal. Brown rice is rich in fibre, which can help add balance to your diet.

 

Our favourite rice dish: Dosa- Probably one of the easiest food items to make, dosa, like its wheat counterpart chapatti, goes perfectly with any side dish you can think of. You can even stuff it or cook it in different sizes and shapes. The uttapam variant is a tasty delight when sprinkled with a healthy dose of oregano.

 

 

Now that you have a good idea about deliciously healthy foods, you can try out amazing recipes combining them all. Don’t forget to add a layer of spices, which have unique health benefits too. Get some of the best spice tin packages from On1y to make your dishes all that more delightful.

Did you know that an effective weight loss plan is 20 percent exercise and 80 percent diet? Yes, no matter how much you work out, the most beneficial, easy and quick way to lose weight is by eating right. And by eating right, we don’t mean eating a bland boiled piece of chicken with raw leaves and nuts. Studies have shown that you are most likely to give up on a diet plan if you do not like the taste of the food you eat. When it comes to taste, the magic ingredients which add a burst of flavor to any meal are herbs and spices. Apart from adding heaps of nutritional value to your food, many spices also help in speeding up the metabolic process and aid weight loss. So, when it comes to a healthy diet plan, adding spices to your food not only helps you reach your goal weight faster and in a healthier manner, they also ensure you enjoy your meal as you lose the extra kilos!

Turmeric

This wonder ingredient is a staple in almost all Indian dishes. It is loaded with anti-inflammatory agents and is commonly known as a ‘warming spice’ which speeds up the fat burning process by increasing body heat. Apart from aiding weight loss, this magic spice also helps in fighting Alzheimer’s disease and balances out hormonal levels. Turmeric is usually added to curries and stews for a rich flavor. You can also make yourself a cup of turmeric milk by adding a teaspoon of turmeric to some warm milk for quicker weight loss results.

Cinnamon

With its heavenly taste and lingering fragrance, cinnamon is the complete package when it comes to weight loss. It is known to keep your blood sugar levels in check and keeps your stomach filled for longer. This, in turn, helps curb hunger pangs which lead to a healthy weight loss. Adding this scrumptious spice to a bowl of high-fiber oats or skimmed yoghurt can instantly make the dish brimful of flavor with heaps of nutritional benefits. You can also add this spice to a cup of steaming hot coffee or tea for a more fragrant and refreshing beverage.

Cumin

Just a spoonful of cumin seeds works wonders on your body and is known for targeting belly fat. This fascinating spice speeds up metabolism by burning up to three times more fat per day. For rapid weight loss, soak two teaspoons of cumin seeds in drinking water overnight. Boil this water, add the juice of half a lemon and drink it on an empty stomach every morning. This magic concoction is guaranteed to keep the extra weight at bay. These seeds are also rich in antioxidants and are known to reduce sugar levels and aid digestion.

Black Pepper

Black pepper is a superior ingredient which deals with the problem of weight loss at root level. Its fat-burning properties curb the formation of new fat cells which prevent weight gain to begin with. This pungent spice can be added to any dish, from a simple salad to a spicy curry, to instantly boost up the flavor and add a host of health benefits. Add a pinch of freshly ground pepper (you can even use a Spice Grinder or Mortar & Pestle) to a tablespoon of lime juice for a quick salad dressing or just drizzle it on some roasted vegetables and chicken for a wholesome meal.

Cardamom

Like turmeric and pepper, cardamom is also a thermogenic spice which adds heat to the dish and builds up metabolism by increasing body temperature. This spice is commonly used in Indian cuisine and can be added to curries and rice for a fragrant and scrumptious flavor. It can also be consumed in the form of the well-known cardamom tea which works wonders by aiding digestion and contributing to a quicker and more effective weight loss regime.

These powerful spices help in speeding up the process of weight loss with a host of added benefits like boosting up the nutritional value of meals and fighting various harmful diseases. Make sure you add these magic spices to your everyday diet plan for a quick and smooth weight loss journey.

Herbs and spices are the heart of cooking.  Both herbs and spices come from parts of plants that are used to enhance flavor. However, have you ever wondered what the difference between herbs and spices is?

They are one of the key ingredients that make your meal better.

The two categories of food enhancers have some similarities. They add flavor, aroma, and color to the dish. They are used to preserve food and also have cosmetic value. Here are a few distinct properties of herbs and spices that you should know.

Herbs

Herbs are usually the leafy part of the plant and are either sweet or savory. Some other parts of the plant such as the bark, seeds, berries, root etc. are also considered herbs and used for medicinal purposes. They are classified into different types such as culinary, medicinal and sacred herbs. You can buy both fresh herbs and dry herbs that are used in cooking. Here are some examples of herbs you can use for cooking to enhance flavor.

Bay leaf

Bay leaf is an aromatic herb used in cooking that enhances the taste. They are a fixture in European and American cuisine and are used in Indian cuisine as well. Bay leaf is an aromatic leaf from the evergreen bay laurel tree, native to the Mediterranean. The taste and flavor are similar to that of cinnamon, although this is milder. Roasted and ground bay leaves are added to the Indian mixture of spices called “Garam Masala” to add taste and aroma. Bay leaves along with a variety of spices is vastly used in Indian cooking for dishes like biryani.

bayleaf 2

Basil

Popular in European cuisine, Basil is used in pizzas, pastas and also as whole leaves in fresh salads. Basil is considered the king of herbs, thanks to its nutritional values. Its extremely aromatic leaves are used as a seasoning for many dishes but has become largely popular as the main ingredient in pesto – a mixture of basil, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese.

Rosemary

Native to the Mediterranean region, Rosemary is a perennial herb with a strong fragrance, evergreen leaves and white, pink, purple, or blue flowers.  Rosemary can add tremendous flavor to food, especially when you chop it and use it in stuffing or sauces for meat and seafood. Apart from cooking, they are also known to have medicinal properties.

rosemary

Other herbs include: celery seed, chives, cilantro, dill, fennel, lemon grass, parsley, sage, tarragon, thyme and more.

Spices

Spices are seasonings that you get from parts of the plant like fruits, seeds, bark, dried buds, stigma, root, rhizomes and resin. They are used in food for flavor, color or as preservatives. Apart from adding flavor and aroma, they are also used as remedies for certain ailments. Spices are dry and are used to add flavor and season the meal.  Here are some examples of spices you can use for cooking to enhance flavor.

Saffron

Derived from a flower called Crocus sativa, saffron is a spice that is an essential part of every Indian household. The flowers of saffron are largely cultivated and harvested by hand. Be it in milk, sweets or the traditional pulao, saffron is known for the Nawabi feel it brings to every dish. Saffron of the best quality if identified by observing individual strands. If it is of utmost premium quality, then it must have long strands that are thick at the end. Apart from its wide uses in the kitchen, saffron is also used to enhance cosmetic beauty. In Indian culture, it is considered auspicious to gift saffron. It also has a number of medicinal properties.

fan-eltahee-28-1465246513

Crushed Chillies

Crushed chillies or red pepper is used to add heat and flavor to any dish. Used primarily in Indian and Italian cooking, it can be used as a seasoning or a condiment. You can use this to add flavor to any Indian curry or pizza. It balances the flavor and brings out the taste.

Wooden bowl full of fiery chilli pepper flakes.

Black pepper

Native to India, black pepper is primarily found in the Western Ghats and Malabar region. Black pepper has a very strong flavor and is widely used in Indian cuisine, either whole or as a powder. It can be added to garam masala, sambar powder, rasam powder to enhance aroma and taste. It also has health benefits and hence is extremely popular.

balck pepper

Other spices include cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, turmeric, ginger, mace, saffron, vanilla, cumin and dill seed.

Herbs and spices are the hearths of any meal. They add flavor, color, and aroma of your cooking. However, there is more to it than just flavor; both herbs and spices have multiple health benefits.  Some of the common herbs and spices may help protect against even chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

Here is a look at some of the herbs and spices and their health benefits.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a bright yellow spice, which adds flavor and aroma. However, it has numerous health benefits and has been widely used in India and China for this. Using turmeric in food can be extremely useful and hence is referred to as the ‘Queen of all spices.’ It is used as an anti-inflammatory agent to treat a wide variety of conditions, including jaundice, menstrual difficulties, bloody urine, hemorrhage, toothache etc. The spice contains healthy nutrients such as potassium, calcium, protein, Vitamin E, copper, magnesium, Vitamin C, zinc, Vitamin K, and iron. Research shows that turmeric also has properties that can help prevent prostate cancer. It can stop the growth of existing prostate cancer and even destroy cancer cells. It is known to have a preventive effect against T-cell leukemia, colon carcinomas, and breast cancer. Another important benefit of turmeric is that it can be used in the treatment of diabetes by helping moderate the insulin levels.

KurkumaGarlic

Garlic has a pungent smell and adds taste to certain dishes but there is more to the herb. The health benefits of garlic are innumerable. It helps with fighting cold, cough and lowers the blood pressure. It is the oldest known medicinal plant. The usage of garlic in medicine goes way back to World War I. The surgeons then used garlic juice as an antiseptic for treating war wounds.  It contains phosphorous, calcium and iron, as well as trace minerals like iodine, sulfur, and chlorine. It is also proven to cure side effects of diabetes, control cholesterol, hypertension, intestinal problems and improve digestion. The regular intake of garlic reduces the risk of colon, stomach and esophageal cancer.

 

garlic

Mint

Mint leaves, traditionally known as a mouth freshener, has other benefits that not too many people are aware of. It contains potassium, iron, fibers and Vitamin A, all of which are required for everyday wellness. Mint promotes digestion and also soothes the stomach in cases of indigestion or inflammation. The strong and refreshing smell of mint also helps cure headaches and nausea. Regular use of mint also is good for curing asthma.

 

mint

Oregano

Oregano, a popular Italian seasoning, has been used by Greeks for many years for curing many ailments such as convulsions to heart failure. Oregano supplements can also treat respiratory tract disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, menstrual cramps, and urinary tract disorders. It is also known to cure skin disorders such as dandruff and acne. The herb is rich in Vitamin K, which is an important vitamin for bone growth and bone density.

 

oregano

Basil

Basil contains carbohydrates, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, and magnesium. Basil’s volatile oils and high quantities of (E)-beta-caryophyllene (BCP) are useful in treating arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases. With high portions of vitamin A, it helps prevent cholesterol in the blood which in turn prevents atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and stroke.

 

basil

Try: On1y Basil, On1y Oregano, On1y Roasted Garlic & Pink Salt

The Himalayas, one of the highest mountain ranges in the world, is known for its perfect and pristine ecosystem. These beautiful mountains are the origin of the Himalayan sea salt, which is known for its healing and restorative powers since ancient times.

Himalayan Pink Salt Benefits

Himalayan Pink salt

When you start using pink salt on a regular basis, you will realize the positive changes it brings to your health. Here are the top few uses and health benefits of pink salt.

Use #1: Detox drink

Mix one litre of warm water with two teaspoons of Himalayan Pink salt and stir it well before drinking.

Benefit #1:

Drinking a mixture of Pink salt and water, helps in pushing out the toxic wastes from the body. Thus, your body will release harmful toxins. Furthermore, this detox drink will help in regulating digestion and bowel movements.

Use #2: Improves sleep

Mix five teaspoons of raw honey with one teaspoon of Pink salt and store this mixture. Place one teaspoon of this mixture under your tongue to dissolve before going to bed every night.

sleeping

Benefit #2:

The mixture of honey and Pink salt helps in improving the condition of your body and mind, enabling you to sleep well. Pink salt also helps in replenishing and restoring your energy levels during your sleep.

Use #3: Steam Inhalation

You can dissolve the Himalayan Pink salt in boiling water and inhale the steam just like in a normal steam inhaling procedure.

Benefit #3:

When you dissolve the Himalayan Pink salt in hot water and inhale the steam, it will help in clearing up sinus issues and improving any respiratory condition that you may have, including asthma.

Use #4: Pink Salt Sole

A Sole (pronounced as Solay), is nothing but a saturated salt solution. You can dissolve Himalayan Pink Salt with water in 1:4 ratio and keep adding solute to this until the solution is saturated. This is to be prepared in a glass jar and not in any metal utensil. Using a metal lid/jar might result in oxidation of the metal, which will contaminate your Sole.

Pink Salt Sole

Benefit #4:

The result of drinking some Sole in warm water every morning, on your body weight will be miraculous. It will also help in improving the hydration in your body by providing trace minerals.

Use #5: As common salt

You can use Pink salt instead of the common table salt in any dish.

Pink salt

Benefit #5:

While intake of common salt is considered to increase blood pressure, the Himalayan Pink salt has potassium, which helps the human body in lowering blood pressure levels. Thus, replacing your regular table salt with the Himalayan Pink version will slowly and gradually decrease your blood pressure.

Apart from these, the Himalayan Pink salt also helps in improving blood circulation, promotes the functioning of one’s arteries, boosts energy, relaxes the body, provides necessary mineral compounds to the body, etc. Therefore, this salt is beneficial for people of all ages. By using Pink salt instead of common salt, you can make a positive change that to improve your health.

What are you waiting for? Go ahead and buy the healthy Himalayan Pink salt now!

References

http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/himalayan-crystal-salt-benefits/

http://fitlife.tv/12-incredible-things-that-happen-when-you-swap-table-salt-for-himalayan-sea-salt/

http://wellnessmama.com/12158/make-sole/

Herbs add magical and prominent flavors to dishes. Fresh herbs can take a dish from good to great. Imagine Pesto without Basil or Salsa without Cilantro!  Be it a pinch or a bunch, herbs have the power to pull a recipe together by infusing the dish with supreme aromas and flavors.  Sometimes, you might seek a subtle effect, the other times you might require handfuls of these herbs to make your dishes tastier and more flavorsome. Here’s a quick guide on how to use some of the widely used fresh herbs –

Basil 

Closely related to mint, Basil has a sweet, peppery, floral anise-like flavor. It is one of the most popular culinary herbs used around the world. There are two main kinds of Basil – Sweet Basil and Asian Basil. Sweet Basil pairs naturally with tomatoes, but it can be used with almost every type of meat or seafood. Asian Basil is commonly used in soups, stir-fries, and fresh curry pastes. Basil is usually available in both fresh and dry forms. Fresh basil is usually stored in a jar, counter top for 7-10 days and dry Basil is available all year round.

basil

Parsley 

Parsley is one of the most common and versatile herbs. No refrigerator should be without Parsley, as it can go in about every dish you make. It has a mild, grassy flavor that helps other components of the dish to come through. Parsley compliments other seasonings and is widely used in salads, sauces and also used for garnishing. Curly Parsley is decorative and hence used mostly for garnish, whereas its brother, flat-leaf Parsley or Italian Parsley has the best texture for cooking as it stands up better to heat and has more flavor. Parsley is usually available in both fresh and dry forms. Fresh Parsley can be refrigerated in a jar for about 7-10 days and dry Parsley can be bought throughout the year.

Parsley

Rosemary 

The woody, pungent Rosemary’s spiky leaves can be used fresh or dried for long brewing in soups, stews, and sauces. Its needle-like leaves have pronounced lemon-pine flavors and go well with olive oil and garlic. Rosemary is a very aromatic and strong herb and hence should be added in the beginning of the cook. It can be stored for about a week in the fridge either in a plastic bag or stems down in a glass of water with a plastic bag around the top.

rosemary

Sage 

The very woody Sage is native to the Mediterranean and is widely used for stuffing. Other uses of the herb can be in dishes with potatoes, cheese, beans or in the classic Sage and brown butter sauce. Sage’s long, narrow leaves have a distinctively fuzzy texture and mildewed flavor redolent of eucalyptus, cedar, lemon, and mint. Sage can be quite overwhelming and should be used in properly measured quantities in any dish. The best way to store Sage is to roll it in a damp paper towel and refrigerate it for 10-14 days but you can also easily buy it in the dry form from any grocery store.

sage

Thyme


Thyme is a very popular herb and can be paired with nearly any meat, fish or vegetable. It has dozens of varieties and pairs well with Rosemary, Sage, Parsley and Oregano. There is a hint of earthiness and mint to the Thyme leaves which accentuate the taste of your dishes. To use fresh Thyme, peel off as many of the leaves as you can from the woody stem by running your fingers along the stem. The leaves are really small hence require no chopping. Fresh Thyme, like Sage, should be rolled in a damp paper towel and stored in the fridge for about 10-14 days or like all of the other herbs can be bought in the dry form.

Thyme

A good dish is not just about the taste, but also about the aroma. Any dish that does not smell good most likely won’t taste too good either. Both aroma and good taste are interconnected. Aromatic spices are the heart of Indian cooking. They are full of strong flavors and captivating fragrance. Imagine making choley bhature without the garam masala? Aromatics give dishes the flavor and the foundation to build its personality.

Here is a list of different aromatics and how you can use them to bring out the best in your kitchen.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek, also called methi, is popular in Indian cuisine and around the Middle East. It adds a slight bitter flavor to the dishes. This spice has a distinctive sweet smell. It is very similar to the smell of maple syrup and can be used to flavor artificial maple syrup, butterscotch syrup and the likes of it.

Fenugreek

Mustard seeds

These tiny little seeds are most commonly used for adding a tadka (tempering with spices) and are the heart of Indian cooking. They are extremely versatile and used in all kinds of Indian cooking.  When roasted, these seeds give out a strong flavor. They exhibit distinct spicy aroma that helps to add a rustic taste to the dishes. It is known for adding a great flavor without fat.

Mustard seeds

Turmeric

Turmeric has a deep yellow color and adds a lot of taste and aroma to any food. It also has a number of health benefits and is added to curry to boost its taste. It has a strong woody flavor and is used in small proportions as the color sticks easily.

turmeric

Curry leaves

Curry leaves are the most common ingredient in Indian dishes. The leaves have a faint aroma, but when cooked the smell enhances and elevates the flavor of the food. They can be fried or shredded or garnished. Use roasted curry leaves to get the best aroma.

curry leaves

Coriander

Coriander leaves or coriander powder has a refreshing and sweet aroma. Used in both South Indian and North Indian cooking, it is an important culinary spice. It stimulates your taste buds when used as a garnish. If you’re using ground coriander seeds or coriander powder, store them in an airtight container as they can lose their flavor in no time.

coriander

Asafetida

Asafetida, also known as Hing, has a strong smell which can overpower any dish. When cooked, it mellows down and adds an exquisite flavor to the food. The smell of Hing is similar to garlic and is often used along with other spices as a flavoring agent. The best way to use it is by roasting and adding it with other spices. Keep in mind not to use it with onion or garlic as the original flavor of the dish can get overpowered.

Asafetida

Ginger

Ginger can be used as a flavoring agent for curries, tea and even soups. It has a sharp smell that cuts through the dish. Ginger is usually sautéed with onions and other spices and used in dals and other curry preparations to enhance the taste and aroma. It is known to add a fresh and pungent aroma to the food.

Ginger

Garlic

Garlic has a pungent odor and flavor, but once it is cooked properly, it adds a tremendous value to any food. It is not just used in Indian cuisine but also Italian and other European cuisines.  On consumption, garlic is known to leave a foul smell in the mouth due to the sulfuric acid compounds present in the cloves. However when roasted, it adds a sweet, smoky flavor with an inviting, sharp aroma to the food.

Ginger

Be it for any cuisine, spices are known to be the essential ingredient that adds a rich taste and aroma to the food. Most of these spices have oodles of health benefits and provide a unique flavor to the dishes, without adding any calories or fat. And irrespective of one’s own culinary expertise, choosing the right mix & quality of spices can go a long way in bringing your food to life.

In order to help you enjoy cooking and enhance the flavor of your meal, we have put together a list of most common spices that go well with any global whole food recipes.

  1. Pepper

Pepper is the second most popular spice used for cooking and garnishing in cuisines around the world.  It can be used whole while cooking or ground with handy grinders of crushers for seasoning. You can spike your flavored meal with freshly ground or crushed pepper to add a bit of fieriness to it. A pinch of black pepper can be added to almost every kind of recipe, right from a salad, an elaborate Spanish omelette or a simple pasta dish. The best pepper cones in the world are known to emerge from the Malabar region in Kerala.

Pepper

  1. Parsley

Parsley is one of the main ingredients in European, Middle Eastern and American cuisine, although you can track its origin back to the UK. Often used as a garnish, it is available in both, dry and fresh forms for cooking. It brightens the flavors and adds balance to savory dishes, making it the perfect spice partner for all your recipes. You can sprinkle some dry or fresh Parsley over your soups, meat stews, vegetable sauces or seafood preparations to experience the difference it makes.

Parsley

  1. Oregano

Oregano is a Mediterranean herb, popularly regarded as an excellent kitchen-garden herb. Even though Oregano is branded for being an integral component of Italian food, it is widely used in Mexican, Greek and Spanish recipes as well. Its origin can be traced back to Turkey, where it is found in its best form. You’ll find Oregano in fresh and dry forms. So next time you enjoy a bowl of salad, bean dishes or grilled meat, sprinkle some Oregano to enhance the taste and aroma.

Oregano

  1. Chili Powder / Flakes

It is usually made from grinding dried chilies or mixing it with other spices to deliver an intensely-hot and eccentric flavor. Chilli powder or flakes go well with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes belonging to the Indian, Southeast Asian and Mexican cuisines. However, Indian chillies are considered to be the finest of the lot. Add it to any dish in limited quantity, as the heat and color can vary depending on its origin and type.

Chili Powder / Flakes

  1. Garlic

Garlic is a universally loved ingredient with flavorful and aromatic properties. It a versatile ingredient that is generally used in combination with others to bring out the best in a dish. It can be freshly minced, crushed or powdered to add a rich & robust flavor to any meal. Roasted garlic along with salt adds a whole new flavor to any dish. In order to experience its vast culinary properties, add some to your ground meat preparations and sauteed, roasted and stir-fried recipes.

Garlic

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