Thailand is known for many wonderful reasons, not the least of which is its world-renowned curry. Many ingredients go into making this delicious dish, but did you know that there is also a wide variety of health benefits that are found in them?
In this article, we’ll go over some of the herbs and spices that make up a real Thai curry and go over their medicinal properties as well. Keep on reading to find out more.
1. Cardamom
This spice has a complex flavor that is difficult to describe. It has warm, spicy notes, but also features refreshing citrus and minty characteristics. It’s also very aromatic, and a little bit of it can go a long way in any recipe that it’s used in.
In terms of health benefits, cardamom has been found to contain cancer-fighting and anti-inflammatory compounds. It can also reduce blood pressure and help with digestive problems.
2. Coriander
In Thai curry paste, coriander seeds are crushed to impart a citrusy flavor reminiscent of oranges and lemons. The leaves and stems are also used to garnish the final dish to add brightness and fragrance.
Coriander is packed with antioxidants that can aid in maintaining brain and heart health, as well as improving your skin.
3. Galangal
Galangal is a close relative of ginger, but its flavor is sweeter and piney. For this reason, the two ingredients shouldn’t be interchanged. As for its health benefits, galangal is said to improve blood circulation and can help reduce diarrhea and nausea.
4. Shallots
Shallots are part of the onion family. They are milder in flavor but are more nutrient-dense than their cousins. These nutrients, such as calcium and iron, keep your body and organs healthy. Other benefits of consuming shallots include relief from allergy symptoms and the common cold.
5. Turmeric
Known for its bright, yellow hue, turmeric adds much more than vibrancy to foods. It’s a mildly aromatic spice that has scents of oranges and ginger. Its flavor can also be described as slightly bitter.
Turmeric has recently gained much popularity due to its many health benefits. These include reduced risk of brain and heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, arthritis, and even depression! It also contains plenty of natural anti-inflammatories.
6. Star anise
Star anise has a very strong flavor and fragrance that’s similar to licorice. It adds a sweet and peppery flavor to curries, but remember to use it sparingly.
As for its health benefits, star anise can treat flu symptoms, indigestion, and constipation. It can also aid in alleviating cramps, and some even claim that it improves sexual health.
7. Kaffir lime
This type of lime has a more pungent quality than regular limes. Its juice, zest, and leaves are all used in Thai curries to provide freshness and contrast to the other deep flavors present in the dish.
In terms of health, kaffir limes are known to help remove toxins from the blood and improve the quality of your skin. It can also aid in maintaining oral health.
8. Garlic
This staple ingredient in almost all cuisines has a strong, pungent flavor when raw, which mellows out and turns sweet when cooked.
Garlic has several surprising positive effects on your health, which include lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and reduced risk of contracting diseases most commonly associated with old age. It’s also been linked to increased performance in athletes and can clean heavy metals from the body.
Wrapping up
Although this list barely includes half of the ingredients that you would find in an authentic Thai curry, it already clearly demonstrates the many health benefits that may be gained from regularly eating the dish. If you are looking for the best restaurant in Bangkok, head over to Indulge Bar Bangkok today and try some Thai curry for yourself!