In India the ingredients in a tadka differ according to the dishes as well as the states. Every state has its own famous tadka and today, we bring to you the flavours from the beautiful valleys of Kashmir. Almost everyone is aware of the famous Kashmiri spices, especially Red Chilli. Similarly, Kashmiri tadka too is famous for its rich aroma and flavours. Alongside, the spices used in it provides warmth during cold weather. But what are these spices and how are they beneficial for health? Let us have a look at it.
Kashmiri tadka usually consists of whole spices such as mace, star anise, black pepper, cloves, nutmeg and black cardamom, the advantages of which are:
Mace (Javitri)
This small-sized spice not only enhances the flavour of the food but is also loaded with medicinal properties and is used in Ayurvedic remedies too. It is rich in antioxidants and has many nutrients and minerals including fiver, manganese, magnesium and calcium.
Mace has the capability to dissolve kidney stones and prevent various infections. It also helps in improving digestion, relieving indigestion and other stomach disorders as well as providing relief from insomnia, asthma and stress. According to a study by the Real Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, the use of mace plays an important role in the prevention of cancer because it contains antioxidants that help protect cells against the free radicals in the body.
Star Anise (Phool Chakri)
Star anise is rich in aroma, along with being beneficial for health. A chemical called anethole is found in star anise, which gives it its fragrance. Apart from this, many beneficial elements are found in it like calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A and vitamin C.
Star anise is not only beneficial in stomach-related problems, but it is also capable of increasing the immunity of the body. Along with this, it has anti-inflammatory properties too. Star anise reduces the problem of bad breath and provides relief in problems like diabetes, stress, bronchitis and even menopause in women.
Black Pepper
Whole black pepper is used extensively in Kashmiri tadka and almost everyone is aware of its outstanding benefits. Black pepper is generally used in both wholes as well as powdered forms. An element called Paprine is found in black pepper, which has medicinal properties. Apart from this, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, chromium, vitamin-A and other nutrients are found in abundance in it.
The use of black pepper provides relief in seasonal infections like cold, flu, phlegm and lung infection. It is also beneficial in case of gas, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach worms, indigestion, memory loss, pyorrhea, weak teeth and weak eyesight.
Cloves
Cloves add a different flavour to the food. It contains a compound called Eugenol, which acts as a natural antioxidant. It has the ability to reduce oxidative stress, which otherwise can aggravate chronic diseases. Eugenol also has anti-cancer properties. Clove extract can help in stopping the tumor from growing and killing cancerous cells.
Apart from this, it consists of fiber, vitamins, minerals and has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which helps in improving brain health, bone strength, liver health and blood sugar levels. Clove works to prevent the growth of bacteria in the body as well as it is considered good for oral health. It reduces gum diseases and relieves tooth pain.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is used in very small quantities in food and just a pinch of it is sufficient to provide certain health benefits. Nutmeg contains vitamins, fiber, minerals and has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, which helps in improving the digestive system, aids insomnia and boost immunity. It also benefits in the condition of cancer, heart diseases and diabetes. Apart from this, nutmeg is considered beneficial in reducing cholesterol as well as relieving seasonal infections such as cold and cough.
Black Cardamom
There are many types of nutrients are found in black cardamom. It has high amounts of fiber, antioxidants, vitamin C and potassium, which have the ability to protect against many diseases.
Black cardamom provides relief in respiratory problems as well as removes many harmful toxins from the body. It acts as a diuretic and keeps the process of urination in control. Along with this, its consumption helps in keeping the skin glowing and healthy.
Also Read: Know the nutritional values of 'Ragi'
