Indian cuisine uses a variety of ingredients to add flavor to the dish. From various local herbs like curry leaves to exotic spices like saffron, Indian cuisine has endless flavors. However, there are some spices and herbs that are staples of cooking and are added to multiple dishes. Garlic is one such ingredient. This edible bulb, which belongs to the onion family, is widely used in Indian kitchens. Mainly combined with onions and ginger, garlic is used to prepare the base of most masala sauces.
Also Read: 5 Best Ways to Use Roasted Garlic
This super-useful bulb is packed with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, so it’s also good for your health. Garlic is also a great source of calcium, phosphorus and selenium, which is very beneficial in the winter. Adding this magical herb to your daily diet during this season will also boost your immune system. Garlic is also good for weight loss as it contains antioxidants that help detoxify and increase your metabolism.
Here are four garlic recipes you can savor to keep you warm and healthy in the winter.
1. Garlic Chutney
Garlic chutney, also known as lasin chutney, is a classic dip made with garlic, coconut, peanuts and chilies. Cumin and tamarind are also sometimes used to enhance flavor. This spicy, flavorful condiment pairs well with most snacks and breakfast dishes. It can also be used as a spread for various sandwiches.
2. Garlic soup
A nutritious soup made with garlic as the main ingredient, perfect for the chilly season. This creamy soup makes a perfect meal with toasted garlic bread.
3. Garlic Paratha
This lip-smacking paratha is flavored with chili and garlic.It’s great for lunch or dinner and can be paired with pickles, curds, or any kind of vegetable curry. A flour dough is prepared with garlic paste, oil and salt, topped with butter and finely chopped chilies, and the parathas are cooked in a tawa to perfection.
4. Garlic rasam
Also known as poondu rasam, this traditional side dish goes great with rice, idiyappam and dosa. Flavored with garlic and other spices, this South Indian soup is also good for coughs and colds. You can add your favorite vegetables to this spicy rasam to make it healthier.
5. Lesung Kee Keel
Also known as benami kheer, this unique sweet dish uses garlic as one of its key ingredients.
material:
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup garlic cloves
- a pinch of saffron
- I like sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon green cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup vinegar
Method:
- Slice the garlic into thin slices and soak in vinegar for about 30 minutes.
- Rinse with hot water about 4 times to remove spiciness and vinegar.
- Set a few slivers aside.
- Bring a heavy saucepan of milk to a boil and add the saffron and cardamom powder.
- When it’s 3/4 full, add minced garlic.
- Add half the milk, add the sugar and mix well.
- In another skillet, sauté the garlic in a little butter until crisp and light brown.
- Garnish with fried garlic and serve hot or chilled.
Indulge in these garlic recipes and enjoy winter.
