Discover simple Indian dishes that use spices and veggies to support daily immune health.
1 Answer
Several Indian recipes can boost immunity using readily available ingredients like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and spices. These include Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh), Ginger-Lemon-Honey concoction, and Kadha (a spiced herbal drink).
Detailed Explanation:
Indian cuisine is rich in ingredients known for their immunity-boosting properties. Here are a few recipes:
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Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh): Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. To make it, simply warm a cup of milk (dairy or plant-based), add ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder, a pinch of black pepper (to enhance curcumin absorption), and a touch of honey or jaggery for sweetness. Simmer for a few minutes and drink warm.
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Ginger-Lemon-Honey Concoction: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, lemon is rich in Vitamin C, and honey has antibacterial properties. Grate about an inch of ginger, squeeze the juice of half a lemon, and mix with a tablespoon of honey. Consume this directly or mix it with warm water for a soothing drink.
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Kadha: Kadha is a traditional Ayurvedic drink made with various spices and herbs. A basic recipe includes boiling water with ingredients like ginger, cloves, cinnamon, black peppercorns, tulsi (holy basil) leaves, and a small piece of licorice root (mulethi). Simmer for 15-20 minutes, strain, and add honey or lemon juice to taste. The specific ingredients can be adjusted based on availability and preference.
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Garlic Rasam: Rasam is a South Indian soup that is light, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Adding garlic to rasam enhances its immunity-boosting properties due to garlic's antiviral and antibacterial effects. Sauté crushed garlic in ghee, then add it to your regular rasam recipe.
Pro Tip:
When making Kadha, avoid over-boiling the spices, as this can reduce their potency and make the drink bitter. Simmering gently is key to extracting the beneficial compounds.