Spices Pastes

Curry Leaf Paste:

Nutrition value, Uses, and Benefits  Curry Leaf Paste:

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Curry leaves (also known as kadi patta) are rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants.
   • They contain vitamins A, B, C, and B2, along with minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and iron.
   • Curry leaves are also a good source of fiber and carbohydrates.
   • These leaves have a distinctive aroma and pungent taste, which adds flavor to various dishes.
2. Health Benefits:
   • Antioxidant Properties: Curry leaves are packed with protective plant compounds, including alkaloids, glycosides, and phenolic compounds. These act as antioxidants, scavenging harmful free radicals and reducing oxidative stress.
   • Heart Health: Research suggests that curry leaf extract may help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, reducing heart disease risk factors.
   • Digestive Health: The fiber content in curry leaves supports digestion and may alleviate issues like dysentery and diarrhea.
   • Anemia Prevention: Curry leaves are a rich source of iron and folic acid, which can help prevent anemia.
   • Hair Health: Curry leaves promote hair growth and prevent premature greying. Applying curry leaf paste to the scalp can be beneficial.
3. Culinary Uses:
   • Curry leaf paste is versatile and can be used in various South Indian dishes.
   • It pairs well with rice, upma, sambhar, and rasam.
   • The paste adds a unique flavor and health benefits to your meals.
4. How to Make Curry Leaf Paste:
   • Ingredients:
     • 3 cups curry leaves (washed and drained)
     • 2 tbsp tamarind paste
     • 1 tsp turmeric powder
     • Solid hing (asafoetida), 1-2 chunks
     • Salt to taste
     • Roasted and powdered ingredients: urad dal, tur dal, chana dal, coriander seeds, pepper, jeera, red chillies
     • Seasoning: mustard seeds
   • Method:
     1. Boil tamarind paste, hing, turmeric powder, and curry leaves in water.
     2. Roast and powder the other ingredients.
     3. Mix the roasted curry leaves with the powder.
     4. Add seasoning and allow it to cool.
     5. Store in airtight bottles and refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Tamarind Paste:

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Tamarind paste is derived from the fruit of the tamarind tree. It has a sweet and sour flavor and is used in various cuisines.
   • Here’s the nutritional content for one cup (120g)of raw tamarind pulp:
     • Calories: 287
     • Fat: 0.7g
     • Sodium: 34mg
     • Carbohydrates: 75g
     • Fiber: 6.1g
     • Sugars: 46.6g
     • Protein: 3.4g
     • Potassium: 754mg
     • Vitamin C: 4.2mg
   • Tamarind is low on the glycemic index, meaning it doesn’t cause rapid blood sugar spikes despite its sugar content.
2. Health Benefits:
   • Anti-Inflammatory: Tamarind contains polyphenols and antioxidants that may help control inflammation in the body. It has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory effects.
   • Cholesterol and Blood Sugar: Animal studies suggest that tamarind may help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels, although human research is limited.
   • Digestive Aid: Tamarind can relieve constipation and soothe sore throats.
   • Rich in B Vitamins and Vitamin C: Tamarind provides B vitamins, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, iron, thiamine, phosphorus, riboflavin, and fiber.
   • Tenderizing Meat: Its acidic quality makes it ideal for marinades.
3. Culinary Uses:
   • Tamarind paste is a key ingredient in:
     • Pad Thai sauce
     • Some Thai curries
     • Indian curries
     • Sauces, chutneys, and marinades
   • It adds a beautiful sweet-sour flavor to dishes.
4. How to Cook with Tamarind Paste:
   • Use it straight from the container.
   • Adjust sweetness by adding sugar or sweeteners.
   • Taste-test to achieve the desired balance.
   • Tamarind paste pairs well with meats, noodles, and desserts.

Cardamom Paste:

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Black cardamom (also known as Tsaokoin Chinese) is an intensely aromatic spice with a smoky, menthol-like flavor.
   • While the nutritional value of black cardamom paste is not significant in terms of macronutrients like proteins, fats, or carbohydrates, it does contain some essential nutrients and bioactive compounds.
   • These nutrients include vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
2. Health Benefits:
   • Antioxidant Properties: Black cardamom is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
   • Digestive Aid: Traditionally, black cardamom has been used to aid digestion and relieve bloating.
   • Respiratory Health: It may have benefits for respiratory issues.
   • Flavor Enhancement: Black cardamom adds depth and complexity to savory dishes, especially slow-simmered soups, braised meats, and stir-fries.
   • Distinct Aroma: Its unique flavor comes from the traditional drying process over open flames, resulting in a smoky, peppery, and warm taste.
3. Culinary Uses:
   • Black cardamom paste pairs well with rich and hearty dishes.
   • It is commonly used in Chinese, Indian, and Pakistani cuisines.
   • Add just one or two whole pods to a recipe to avoid overpowering other flavors.
4. Buying & Storing:
   • Look for whole pods labeled as “Amomum tsao-ko” or “Cǎo Guǒ” in Chinese or Indian grocery stores.
   • Store them in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

Remember, black cardamom paste not only enhances flavor but also offers potential health benefits!

Coriander Paste :

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Coriander (also known as cilantro) is a fragrant herb commonly used in various cuisines.
   • It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
   • Here’s the nutritional content of coriander:
     • Vitamin A: Supports immune health.
     • Vitamin K: Important for blood clotting.
     • Vitamin C: Boosts immunity.
     • Potassium: Essential for heart health.
     • Folate: Supports cell division and growth.
     • Iron: Vital for oxygen transport in the blood.
     • Calcium: Important for bone health.
     • Fiber: Supports digestion.
     • Phytonutrients: These compounds have various health benefits.

2. Health Benefits:
   • Antioxidant Properties: Coriander contains antioxidants that fight cellular damage caused by free radicals.
   • Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Its compounds may reduce inflammation in the body.
   • Heart Health: Some studies suggest it may lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
   • Digestive Aid: Coriander supports digestion and may alleviate bloating.
   • Skin Health: It may promote healthy skin due to its antioxidant content.
3. Culinary Uses:
   • Coriander paste is versatile and adds flavor to various dishes.
   • Use it in soups, salsas, curries, and marinades.
   • Coriander leaves (cilantro) are often used whole, while the seeds are used dried or ground.

Remember, coriander paste not only enhances flavor but also offers potential health benefits!

Carom Seeds (Ajwain):

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Carom seeds (also known as ajwain) are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other beneficial nutrients.
   • They contain essential oils like thymol, cymene, pinene, terpinene, and limonene.
   • Although referred to as “seeds,” carom seeds are actually the fruitof the ajwain herb.
   • They have a slightly green to brown color and a pungent, bitter taste. Their aroma is closer to that of thyme.
   • Carom seeds are often sold as whole seeds but can also be ground into a powder and used as a cooking spice.
2. Health Benefits:
   • Fight Bacteria and Fungi: Carom seeds have powerful antibacterialand antifungal properties due to compounds like thymol and carvacrol. They inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, including  coli, Salmonella, and Candida albicans.
   • Improve Cholesterol Levels: Animal research suggests that carom seeds may lower cholesteroland triglyceride levels, both of which are risk factors for heart disease.
   • Digestive Aid: Traditionally, they’ve been used to relieve colic painsand ease asthma.
   • Skin Benefits: Carom seeds are particularly effective at lightening acne scarswhen made into a paste and applied to the affected area.
3. Culinary Uses:
   • Carom seeds are used in small amounts to add flavor to many dishes, act as preservatives, and make essential oils for perfumes.
   • They’re common in Indian cuisineand pair well with rich and hearty dishes.

Remember, carom seeds not only enhance flavor but also offer potential health benefits!

Mint Paste :

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Mint (mentha) is a fragrant herb with refreshing aroma and cool feel.
   • It contains essential nutrients and antioxidants.
   • Nutritional content of mint includes:
     • Vitamin A: Supports immune health.
     • Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and aids tissue repair.
     • Calcium: Important for bone health.
     • Iron: Vital for blood health.
     • Fiber: Supports digestion.
     • Manganese: Essential for bone health and blood clotting.
   • Mint leaves are particularly rich in antioxidants, protecting your body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
2. Health Benefits:
   • Anti-Inflammatory: Mint leaves have anti-inflammatory properties.
   • Digestive Aid: Mint tea can relieve upset stomach and nausea.
   • Skin Health: Mint paste can be applied to acne scars for lightening.
   • Refreshing Flavor: Mint enhances flavor in various dishes and beverages.
3. Culinary Uses:
   • Mint paste is used as a spread (similar to pesto), for marinating meats, in icy beverages, and as chutney.
   • Chutney is a preserve of fruits or herbs mixed with vinegar, sugar, and spices.

Remember, mint paste not only adds flavor but also offers potential health benefits!

Ginger Paste:

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Ginger paste is a culinary ingredient made by blending fresh ginger root with water. The result is a smooth, thick, and concentrated paste that can be used in cooking to add the distinctive flavor of ginger to dishes.
   • The nutritional content of ginger paste may vary slightly depending on the specific recipe and any additional ingredients used in the preparation. Here’s a general overview for 1 tablespoon (about 18 grams)of ginger paste:
     • Calories: 23
     • Carbohydrates: 5.5 grams
     • Dietary Fiber: 0.5 grams
     • Protein: 0.3 grams
     • Fat: 0.2 grams
     • Vitamin C: 1.7 milligrams
     • Potassium: 42 milligrams
     • Iron: 0.2 milligrams
     • Calcium: 4 milligrams
   • Ginger paste, like fresh ginger, offers a variety of potential health benefits due to its rich nutritional profile and bioactive compounds. Some of these benefits include:
     • Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Ginger contains bioactive compounds such as gingerol, which have anti-inflammatory effects.
     • Digestive Aid: Ginger paste may help relieve nausea and digestive upset.
     • Flu and Cold Fighter: Ginger has medicinal properties that can combat flu, colds, and pain.
     • Blood Sugar Regulation: It may help lower blood sugar levels.

2. Culinary Uses:
   • Ginger paste is commonly used in a variety of cuisines, including Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern.
   • It adds a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor to dishes.
   • Use it in curries, stir-fries, marinades, soups, and sauces.
3. How to Make Ginger Paste:
   • Ingredients:
     • 1 pound fresh ginger root, peeled and chopped into pieces
     • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (e.g., avocado oil)
     • A splash of water
   • Instructions:
     1. Combine ginger and oil in a blender.
     2. Pulse until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
     3. Store the ginger paste in the refrigerator for up to a month or longer if frozen.

Remember, ginger paste is a convenient alternative to freshly grated or chopped ginger, saving time and effort in the kitchen while adding the unique taste of ginger to your favorite recipes!

Onion Paste:

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Onion paste is an essential ingredient in many cuisines.
   • Onions are nutrient-dense, low in calories, and high in vitamins, fiber, and minerals.
   • One medium onion (110 grams) contains approximately:
     • Calories: 44
     • Protein: 1.2 g
     • Carbohydrates: 10.3 g
     • Sugar: 4.7 g
     • Fiber: 1.9 g
     • Fat: 0.1 g
     • Potassium: 3.4% of Daily Value (DV)
     • Vitamin C: 9% of the DV
   • Onions are rich in vitamin C, B vitamins (including folate and vitamin B6), and potassium.
   • They also contain antioxidants that protect cells from free radicals.
2. Health Benefits:
   • Heart Health: Onions may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
   • Antioxidants: Onions are loaded with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.
   • Digestive Aid: Onion paste can soothe digestion and alleviate bloating.
   • Skin Health: Applying onion paste to acne scars may help lighten them.
3. Culinary Uses:
   • Onion paste serves as a base for many Indian dishes.
   • It enhances flavor in stews, curries, and sauces.
   • You can make your own onion paste by caramelizing onions for rich, concentrated flavor.

Remember, onion paste not only adds depth to your recipes but also offers potential health benefits!

Garlic Paste :

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Garlic paste is a culinary ingredient made by blending or crushing garlic cloves into a smooth, viscous consistency.
   • It is commonly used in cooking to add the distinctive flavor of garlic to dishes without the texture of minced or chopped garlic.
   • The nutritional value of garlic paste can vary depending on factors such as the size of the cloves used, the quantity of paste consumed, and whether any additional ingredients are included.
   • Below is a general overview of the nutritional content of garlic paste per 100 grams:
     • Calories: 44
     • Protein: 1.2 g
     • Carbohydrates: 10.3 g
     • Sugar: 4.7 g
     • Fiber: 1.9 g
     • Fat: 0.1 g
     • Potassium: 3.4% of Daily Value (DV)
     • Vitamin C: 9% of the DV
   • Garlic is known for its strong, pungent flavor and aromatic properties, and using garlic paste can be a convenient way to incorporate this flavor into your cooking without dealing with the individual garlic cloves.
2. Health Benefits:
   • Garlic has several potential health benefits:
     • Good for Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels: Garlic may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
     • Natural Antioxidant: The purple streaks in garlic indicate the presence of anthocyanins, which act as natural antioxidants.
     • Defense Against Common Sickness: Garlic is known to combat flu, colds, and pain.
     • Digestive Aid: Garlic paste can soothe digestion and alleviate bloating.

3. Culinary Uses:
   • Garlic paste is versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, such as marinades, sauces, soups, stews, and more.
   • It enhances flavor and adds depth to savory dishes.

Remember, garlic paste is not only a flavorful addition to your meals but also offers potential health benefits!

Chili Paste:

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Red chili paste is made from ground red chilies, which are rich in various vitamins and minerals.
   • It contains:
     • Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and aids tissue repair.
     • Potassium: Essential for heart health.
     • Iron: Vital for blood health.
     • Antioxidants: Red chilies are packed with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.
   • The capsaicin in red chilies has shown to have heart-protecting benefits.
2. Health Benefits:
   • Metabolism Enhancement: Red chilies are rich in capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and fat burning.
   • Digestive Aid: Traditionally used to aid digestion.
   • Immune Boost: The vitamin C content supports immunity.
   • Skin Health: Antioxidants in red chilies promote healthy skin.
3. Culinary Uses:
   • Red chili paste adds heat and flavor to various dishes.
   • Use it in marinades, sauces, soups, and stir-fries.

Remember, red chili paste not only enhances flavor but also offers potential health benefits!

Kashmiri Red Chili Paste:

Nutrition Value:

• Kashmiri red chiliesare used extensively in Indian cuisine for their vibrant red hue, mild heat, and slight fruity flavor.
• A couple of teaspoons of this Red Chili Pasteadds a beautiful deep red color and slight smokiness to dishes.
• It is different from the bright red tandoori chicken found in some restaurants, which often uses cheap red food dye. Authentic Kashmiri red chilli paste provides both color and flavor.

2. Health Benefits:
   • Antioxidant Properties: The natural compounds in Kashmiri red chilies have antioxidant effects.
   • Digestive Aid: Red chili paste can soothe digestion and enhance the flavor of various dishes.
   • Skin Health: Some people apply red chili paste to acne scars for its potential lightening effect.
3. Culinary Uses:
   • Use Kashmiri red chili paste in:
     • Curries
     • Grilled meats
     • Vegetable dishes (subzi)
   • It imparts a mild heat and a hint of fruity flavor to your favorite recipes.
4. How to Make Kashmiri Red Chili Paste:
   • Soak dried Kashmiri red chilies in hot water for about 30 minutes.
   • Drain and blend them into a smooth paste along with a splash of water and a pinch of salt.
   • Store the paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 months or freeze it in ice cube trays for longer shelf life.

Remember, Kashmiri red chili paste not only adds color but also enhances the flavor of your dishes!

Garlic Paste (Andhra style Ginger Garlic Paste):

Garlic Paste is a flavorful and aromatic condiment used in Andhra Pradesh cuisine. It combines the pungent heat of garlic with the zesty freshness of ginger. Let’s explore its nutrition, uses, and benefits:

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Ginger:
     • Rich in antioxidantslike gingerol.
     • Contains vitamin C, manganese, and potassium.
     • Supports digestion and may reduce inflammation.
   • Garlic:
     • High in allicin, which has potential health benefits.
     • Contains vitamin C, B vitamins, and minerals.
     • Supports heart health and immune function.

2. Culinary Uses:
   • Andhra style Ginger Garlic Pasteis a staple in Andhra cuisine.
   • Use it as a base for curries, marinades, and stir-fries.
   • Enhances flavor and adds depth to dishes.
3. How to Make Andhra Style Ginger Garlic Paste:
   • Blend equal parts of fresh ginger and garlic with a splash of oil until smooth.
   • Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to a month or freeze for longer shelf life.

Remember, this homemade paste adds a burst of flavor to your cooking while providing potential health benefits!

Garlic Paste (Andhra style Ginger Garlic Paste):

Garlic Paste is a flavorful and aromatic condiment used in Andhra Pradesh cuisine. It combines the pungent heat of garlic with the zesty freshness of ginger. Let’s explore its nutrition, uses, and benefits:

1. Nutrition Value:
   • Ginger:
     • Rich in antioxidantslike gingerol.
     • Contains vitamin C, manganese, and potassium.
     • Supports digestion and may reduce inflammation.
   • Garlic:
     • High in allicin, which has potential health benefits.
     • Contains vitamin C, B vitamins, and minerals.
     • Supports heart health and immune function.

2. Culinary Uses:
   • Andhra style Ginger Garlic Pasteis a staple in Andhra cuisine.
   • Use it as a base for curries, marinades, and stir-fries.
   • Enhances flavor and adds depth to dishes.
3. How to Make Andhra Style Ginger Garlic Paste:
   • Blend equal parts of fresh ginger and garlic with a splash of oil until smooth.
   • Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to a month or freeze for longer shelf life.

Remember, this homemade paste adds a burst of flavor to your cooking while providing potential health benefits!

Chettinad Curry Paste:

Chettinad Curry Paste is a vibrant and aromatic spice blend originating from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu, South India. Let’s explore its fascinating aspects:

1. Flavor Profile:
   • Chettinad Cuisine: Known for its bold and complex flavors, Chettinad cuisine features a variety of spices.
   • Chettinad Curry Paste: This paste is the heart of Chettinad dishes, providing an explosion of taste.
   • Ingredients: The paste typically includes a mix of whole spices, herbs, and aromatics.
2. Ingredients:
   • Dry Roasted Spices: These are essential for the paste’s intense flavor. Common ones include:
     • Coriander Seeds
     • Cumin Seeds
     • Peppercorns
     • Fennel Seeds
     • Cloves
     • Cinnamon
     • Cardamom
   • Other Ingredients:
     • Red Chillies: For heat and color.
     • Coconut: Adds richness and balances flavors.
     • Onions, Garlic, and Ginger: Aromatic base.
     • Curry Leaves: Distinctive Chettinad flavor.
     • Tamarind: For tanginess.

3. Culinary Uses:
   • Chettinad Chicken Curry: The paste is the star in this spicy and aromatic chicken curry.
   • Vegetarian Dishes: Use it for vegetable curries or lentil-based dishes.
   • Rice Dishes: Flavor biryanis or pulao with this paste.
4. Health Benefits:
   • Antioxidants: Many spices in the paste offer health benefits.
   • Digestive Aid: Ginger, garlic, and spices aid digestion.
   • Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Turmeric and other spices have anti-inflammatory effects.