Spices not only vamp-up food with complex and delicious flavor but they are also packed with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial compounds that help keep you healthy. Spices should be consumed sparingly in small amounts when cooking and seasoning. The best way to incorporate spices into your routine cooking and seasoning process is to educate yourself about spice and food pairings.
Chilies
- Chilies are one of the most versatile spices in the world. They are loaded with flavor and are used to enhance a variety of dishes from pork tenderloin to hot chocolate. Chilies contain capsaicin, a compound that gives chilies their heat. When consumed, capsaicin releases endorphins in the brain which makes the body feel good. Chilies also contain high amounts of vitamin C which helps protect the body from oxidative stress.
Cinnamon
- Not only does cinnamon smell good, but its extremely good for you, too. Cinnamon has been used for medicating purposes as early as 2700 BC. Some of the benefits of consuming cinnamon are to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, kill fungi and viruses that cause harmful diseases, and helps metabolize sugar. Add 1/2-teaspoon of cinnamon to your oatmeal in the morning to easily incorporate it into your diet.
Black Pepper
- Usually a dried spice, black pepper stimulates the digestive organs to assist with the flow and production of gastric juices and saliva. Black pepper is used as a spice in cooking as well as a seasoning while eating. It has a strong flavor and smell due to the compound piperine which many attribute to cause sneezing.
Ginger
- Known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, ginger is high in potassium and has the ability to help calm an upset stomach. It is advised to not consume more than 10 grams of fresh ginger daily, or two to four grams dried, as it can interact with blood-clotting medications and cause an upset stomach.
Rosemary
- Loaded with powerful antioxidants, rosemary has a fresh flavor that pairs well with poultry, potatoes and fish. When consumed, rosemary has been proven to increase the blood flow to the brain which helps with memory. Rosemary is also a good source of potassium, iron and calcium.
Peppermint
- Peppermint contains a high concentration of methanol which helps sooth an achy body with the flu or a cold. Its pungent aroma has also been proven in studies to help with curbing appetites. Peppermint pairs well with dark chocolate which is rich in antioxidants. Be careful not to consume peppermint in excess as it can worsen heartburn.
Garlic
- Garlic is known as a "super food" because it has so many qualities that help fight illness. Garlic contains antimicrobial compounds which helps protect against some types of cancer and also helps prevent heart disease. Roasted garlic pairs well with toasted bread or crackers or with pasta and extra virgin olive oil.
Thyme
- Thyme is often prepared in many marinades as it provides a slight minty flavor to dishes. Thyme has been known to increase the body's production of omega-3 fatty acids which are essential to kidneys and brain function. Thyme is also used in many Caribbean dishes such as jerk chicken.
Turmeric
- Turmeric has a fresh flavor, similar to ginger and is often used in many curry dishes to give it a distinct bright yellow color. Turmeric has been used to treat anything from bruises, cuts and burns to indigestion. There are also many antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in turmeric that assist with various forms of arthritis. It has also been used to assist with the healing of skin blemishes.
Clove
- Cloves provide intense flavor to dishes but are advised to be used sparingly. Cloves assist with sore throats, boost the digestive process and help with asthma. They are also rich in antioxidants, dietary fiber and vitamins A and C. Cloves bring a lot of flavor to ham, hot tea, soups and desserts.
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