Yup, health and flavor go together! Your food doesn’t need to taste bland to be called healthy. The secret to flavoring involves spices with surprising health benefits. These hidden spices are about to become your new kitchen staples! Get ready to upgrade your cooking and give your body a boost with these 13 underrated spices you never knew you needed.
13. Pink Peppercorns
Pink peppercorns feature dried berries of the Baies rose plant that offer a sweet and subtle fruity flavor with a mild peppery kick. It was also found that they have impressive health benefits, from antioxidant and antibacterial properties to potentially helping lower blood sugar.
12. Galangal
Galangal might look similar to ginger, but it features a more peppery and almost citrusy flavor that can flavor up any dish. It’s also packed with antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and even neuroprotective benefits. You can add them to soups, curries, or your stir-fries.
11. Ajwain
Ever feel that post-lunch bloat? There’s an ancient seed to solve your problem, and it’s none other than ajwain. Traditional medicine has known for centuries that these seeds can work wonders on your gut. They contain active enzymes that improve the flow of stomach acids, helping to relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas. The secret lies in thymol, a powerful compound also found in thyme, which helps your digestive system run smoothly.
10. Mahlab
Mahlab is made from the ground kernels of the St. Lucie cherry. With this, the flavor features a cross between a bitter almond and a sweet cherry, with a hint of rose. It’s been used for centuries in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean baking to add a subtle, aromatic sweetness to pastries. Mahlab is also rich in antioxidants and has been traditionally used to support digestion and reduce inflammation.
9. Asafoetida
Asafoetida is a resin that transforms into an aromatic flavor similar to leeks and garlic when cooked. It’s a must-have of Indian cuisine since it’s a powerful digestive aid that has been shown to increase the activity of digestive enzymes, helping to prevent bloating and gas. It’s also a great option for those who are sensitive to onions and garlic.
8. Berbere
Berbere is a mix of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, basil, and other spices like korarima and fenugreek. Berbere is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to its diverse ingredients. It’s the perfect way to add a satisfying flavor to everything from stews and lentils to roasted vegetables and meatssame old flavors.
7. Urfa Biber
Urfa Biber is a Turkish chili pepper that’s unlike anything you’ve ever tasted. It has a complex flavor with notes of chocolate, raisin, and coffee. And the health benefits are just as impressive. Urfa Biber is rich in antioxidants and contains capsaicin, which is known to boost metabolism. It’s perfect for adding a touch to grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
6. Long Pepper
Before black pepper became the king of spices, there was long pepper. It features a pungent, earthy taste with a sweet, almost cinnamon-like finish. But its appeal isn’t just historical. Long pepper has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat respiratory issues, and modern research is beginning to uncover its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
5. Nigella Seeds
A 2021 review confirmed that nigella seeds, also known as black cumin, are a true superfood. They’re packed with thymoquinone, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that has been shown to protect against a wide range of health issues. Yes, that includes metabolic, cardiovascular, and respiratory disorders. They have a slightly bitter, peppery flavor that’s a cross between cumin and oregano, making them a good addition to curries and salads.
4. Za’atar
This Middle Eastern staple is a mix of savory dried herbs, toasted sesame seeds, and tangy sumac. It’s a flavoring that can elevate everything from roasted chicken and vegetables to a simple bowl of hummus. Also, za’atar’s potential to improve gut health and reduce inflammation was revealed, thanks to the blend of antioxidants and beneficial compounds.
3. Grains of Paradise
Grains of Paradise features a zesty, peppery flavor with hints of cardamom and ginger. But the real magic lies in their ability to boost your metabolism. It was found that this spice can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and even enhance sleep quality. It’s also been shown to increase whole-body energy expenditure and decrease visceral fat. Imagine a spice that not only makes your food taste amazing but also helps you burn more calories and feel more relaxed.
2. Sumac
Sumac gives off a tangy, lemony flavor that can flavor any dish. It was also found that sumac can significantly improve blood pressure, blood sugar, and even the waist-to-hip ratio. It’s packed with antioxidants and has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it a true super-spice. You can sprinkle it on salads, grilled meats, or even popcorn for a zesty flavor boost.
1. Mastic Gum
Mastic gum is a resin from a tree grown only on the Greek island of Chios, and it has been used for centuries for its healing properties. It was confirmed its powerful benefits for gut health, particularly in fighting H. pylori, the bacteria responsible for most ulcers. It also helps soothe inflammatory bowel conditions and supports overall digestive health. But the benefits don’t stop there. Mastic gum has also been shown to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit your oral health and even your skin.