Ang Chong Yi - Top 5 Healthy Ingredients in Indian Cuisine

Indian cuisine is well-known for its vast diversity and intense flavors, making it one of the most varied and savory in the world.

Many traditional Indian foods are rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, which help to improve one's overall health and well-being.

Whether you are a fan of Indian cuisine or looking to explore new flavors, reading the blog "Ang Chong Yi-The Health Benefits of an Indian Diet" can provide useful information on the nutritional benefits and culinary richness of Indian food. In this post, you can see the top healthy ingredients in Indian cuisine. 

Lentils 

These flat, disc-shaped seeds come in various colors and flavors and are an excellent source of plant protein. One cup of cooked lentils contains 90% of the daily necessary folate and 37% of the recommended iron.

Lentils have a low glycemic index, high fiber content, and low fat, contributing to better blood sugar management.

In Indian cuisine, lentils are often spiced with rice or roti. Lentils can be added to soups and salads, mixed into veggie burgers, or mashed into a dip.

Chickpeas

The next one on this list is Chickpeas. Individuals who add chickpeas to their diets tend to have higher intakes of essential nutrients.

It is rich in dietary fiber, healthy fats, folate, magnesium, potassium, iron, and vitamins A, E, and C. It also rich in protein and fiber.

Incorporating chickpeas into your diet can be done in various ways, such as trying the popular Indian dish chana masala or opting for dry roasted chickpeas as a snack. 

Turmeric

This list won't be complete without adding turmeric. This crucial spice adds a distinct flavor to Indian foods and is an essential component of curry powder, a mainstay in Indian cuisine.

This brilliant yellow powder, produced from a root, is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, making it an excellent addition to your diet.

Adding it to your meals provides both advantages and delightful flavors. If you haven't tried turmeric in your food yet, it's definitely worth it.

Ginger and Garlic 

In many Indian culinary masterpieces, ginger and garlic combine to provide a fragrant and tasty basis. This powerful pair has many health benefits.

Ginger, known for its natural anti-inflammatory characteristics, benefits in weight loss and also helps to manage arthritis and menstruation problems.

On the other hand, garlic has been shown to improve cholesterol levels and potentially reduce the risk of heart disease.

Curry leaves 

Of course, yes! You cannot see Indian recipes without Curry leaves. Curry leaves add a distinct flavor to various dishes.

While curry leaves are commonly discarded in recipes, eating them can provide a variety of health advantages.

Additionally, curry leaves have been related to preventing stomach ailments, diabetes, premature graying of hair, and vision issues.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, various healthy ingredients are used to make diverse Indian dishes. So, the next time you are looking for new recipes or bored with what you have been eating and want to try something new, think about Indian cuisine. Also, read the "Ang Chong Yi — list of Indian Vegan dishes you should never miss" to discover a variety of delicious vegan options and immerse yourself in the alluring world of Indian cuisine."