Most grocery store wasabi is not made from real wasabi, but rather from a mixture of horseradish, mustard, and food colouring. Real wasabi, which comes from the grated root of the Wasabia japonica plant, is difficult to cultivate and quite expensive.
The taste of real wasabi is often described as being more complex and nuanced than the flavour of imitation wasabi found in most grocery stores. It has a distinctive, refreshing heat that dissipates quickly and leaves behind a sweet, vegetal flavour.
In contrast, the imitation wasabi found in grocery stores tends to be much stronger and more pungent, with a sharper, longer-lasting heat that can overpower other flavours. Additionally, the artificial colour added to the imitation wasabi often makes it appear brighter and more fluorescent than real wasabi.
Overall, the taste of grocery store wasabi is quite different from that of real wasabi, and it may not be a good substitute for those looking to experience the authentic flavour of this prized Japanese condiment.
As winter fades and the weather warms up, it’s time to welcome the arrival of spring! Spring is a season of new beginnings and rejuvenation, and it’s also a time to explore new flavours and ingredients in the kitchen. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top spring flavours for 2023 that are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
1. Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs are a staple in many dishes, but they really shine in the springtime. As the weather warms up, herb gardens come back to life, and there’s an abundance of fresh
basil, mint,
thyme, and rosemary available. Herbs add a fresh, bright flavour to salads, pasta dishes, and soups, and they can also be used to make pesto, salsa verde, and other delicious sauces.
2. Asparagus
Asparagus is a quintessential spring vegetable, and it’s packed with flavour and nutrition. This tender, green vegetable is perfect for roasting, grilling, or sautéing, and it pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including lemon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Asparagus is also a great source of folate, vitamin C, and fibre, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
3. Peas
Peas are another spring vegetable that’s bursting with flavour and nutrients. Fresh peas are sweet, tender, and perfect for adding to salads, soups, and pasta dishes. They’re also a great source of protein, fibre, and vitamins A, C, and K. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making your own pea puree or soup for a delicious and healthy springtime meal.
4. Rhubarb
Rhubarb is a tart, tangy vegetable that’s often used in desserts and baked goods. This springtime favourite is perfect for pies, crumbles, and tarts, and it pairs well with strawberries and other berries for a delicious and refreshing flavour. Rhubarb is also a good source of fibre, vitamin K, and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to any springtime menu.
5. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are a great way to add a burst of flavour to any dish, and they’re especially popular in the springtime. Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are all in season during the spring, and they can be used to make everything from salads to marinades to cocktails. Citrus fruits are also packed with vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy all season long.
6. Artichokes
Artichokes are versatile spring vegetables that can be used in a variety of dishes. They’re delicious when grilled, roasted, or steamed, and they pair well with lemon, garlic, and olive oil. Artichokes are also a good source of fibre, folate, and vitamins C and K, making them a healthy and delicious addition to any springtime meal.
7Strawberries
Strawberries are one of the most popular spring fruits, and for good reason. They’re sweet, juicy, and packed with flavour, and they can be used in everything from desserts to salads to smoothies. Strawberries are also a good source of fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any springtime menu.
7. Mint
Mint is a refreshing herb that’s perfect for adding flavour to salads, drinks, and desserts. This versatile herb pairs well with chocolate, lemon, and other citrus fruits, and it can also be used to make mint tea or infused water for a refreshing and healthy drink. Try adding fresh mint leaves to your cocktails, using it to make a refreshing iced tea, or mixing it into your favourite spring salad. Mint is also a good source of vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to your spring cuisine.
8. Strawberries
Strawberries are one of the most popular spring fruits and for good reason. They’re sweet, juicy, and packed with flavour, and they can be used in everything from desserts to salads to smoothies. Strawberries are also a good source of fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any springtime menu.
9. Radishes
Radishes are a crisp and refreshing spring vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are often used in salads or as a topping for tacos and sandwiches, adding a pop of colour and crunch to the dish. Radishes are also a good source of vitamin C, folate, and potassium.
10. Honey
Honey is a sweet and fragrant natural sweetener that is perfect for spring beverages and desserts. It can be used to sweeten tea, lemonade, and cocktails, or used as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, and waffles. Honey is also known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a healthy choice as well.
1 Sage:
This herb is said to have purifying and cleansing properties, making it perfect for smudging. Smudging, of course, is the act of burning sage and waving the smoke around to cleanse a space of negative energy. Or, you know, you could just open a window and let some fresh air in. But where’s the fun in that?
2 Rosemary:
Ah, rosemary. It smells so lovely and is the perfect addition to any roast chicken. But did you know that it’s also supposed to help
with memory and concentration? If you’re feeling forgetful, just take a whiff of some rosemary essential oil and you’ll be back on track in no time. Or, you know, you could just write yourself a reminder note. But that’s not nearly as fun as sniffing some herbs.
3 Basil:
This herb is often associated with love and fertility. Some people believe that if you sprinkle dried basil around your home, it will attract love and prosperity. Others swear by basil tea as a potent aphrodisiac. I don’t know about you, but the only thing I’ve ever felt after drinking a cup of basil tea is a sudden urge to go to the bathroom.
4 Lavender:
Llavender. The scent of relaxation and tranquillity. It’s no wonder that this herb is often used in aromatherapy and bath products. Lavender is
said to have calming properties that can help reduce stress and anxiety. Or, you know, you could just take a deep breath and remind yourself that everything will be okay. But where’s the fun in that?
5 Thyme:
This herb is often used in cooking, but did you know that it’s also supposed to have healing properties? Some people believe that thyme
tea can help cure a sore throat or cough. Others swear by thyme oil for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Me? I just like the way it tastes in a nice bowl of soup.
6 Chamomile:
This herb is often associated with relaxation and sleep. Chamomile tea is a popular bedtime drink because it’s supposed to help you drift off into a peaceful slumber. But did you know that chamomile is also supposed to have protective properties? Some people believe that if you sprinkle dried chamomile around your home, it will protect you from negative energy and evil spirits. Hey, it’s worth a shot, right?
7 Dandelion:
Okay, hear me out. Dandelions might be considered a weed, but they’re also supposed to have powerful magical properties. Some people believe that if you blow on a dandelion and make a wish, it will come true. Others swear by dandelion tea for its cleansing and detoxifying properties. Me? I just like to watch my dog chase after the little white puffballs.
8 Mint:
This herb is often used in cooking and is a popular flavour for gum and mints. But did you know that it’s also supposed to have healing properties? Mint tea is often used to help with digestive issues, and mint oil is supposed to help with headaches and muscle pain. I don’t know about you, but I think I’ll stick to popping an Advil.
9 Lemon balm:
This herb is often used in tea and is supposed to have calming properties. It’s also said to attract love and romance. Some people believe that if you put lemon balm leaves under your pillow, you’ll dream of your true love.
10 Cinnamon:
This warm and spicy herb is often used in baking, but it also has magical properties. Cinnamon is associated with love, protection, and success. It’s believed to attract money and promote career growth. So, sprinkle some cinnamon in your wallet or burn it as incense to attract wealth and positive energy.
Let’s dive into the world of spices and flavours!
When it comes to Indian cuisine, the first thing that comes to mind is the spicy curries that are known to tantalize the taste buds. From the fiery Chicken Vindaloo to the creamy Butter Chicken, Indian curries are loved all around the world. Here are three of the most popular Indian curries that are a must-try for anyone who loves food that is both flavorful and spicy.
1. Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most popular Indian curries, and it’s no surprise why. This creamy, tomato-based curry is made with marinated chicken that is grilled or roasted and then simmered in a rich and spicy sauce. The dish is believed to have originated in the UK, where it is often called the national dish. However, it’s also a favourite in India, known as Murgh Tikka Masala.
Legend has it that Chicken Tikka Masala was invented by a Bangladeshi chef in Glasgow, Scotland, who improvised a dish by adding tomato soup to a curry. The dish was an instant hit and has been enjoyed worldwide ever since. In fact, it’s so popular that some people even call it the “Burger of Indian Food.”
2. Rogan Josh
Rogan Josh is a classic Kashmiri dish that is known for its rich and bold flavours. The name Rogan Josh literally translates to “red juice-infused meat,” and it’s easy to see why. The dish is made with lamb or goat that is cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce that gets its rich red colour from Kashmiri red chilli powder.
Rogan Josh is said to have originated in Persia and was brought to India by the Mughals. However, the Kashmiri version of the dish is quite different from the original Persian recipe. The Kashmiri version is milder and uses yogurt instead of cream to give it a tangy flavour.
3.Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a creamy and indulgent Indian curry that is known for its rich, buttery flavour. The dish originated in the 1950s in Delhi, India, and was invented by a chef named Kundan Lal Gujral. Gujral was looking for a way to use leftover tandoori chicken, and he came up with the idea of simmering it in a tomato-based sauce that was enriched with cream and butter.
The dish quickly became a favourite among the customers at Gujral’s restaurant, and it has since become a staple of Indian cuisine. Today, Butter Chicken is enjoyed all around the world and is one of the most popular dishes on Indian restaurant menus.
The recipe for Butter Chicken typically involves marinating chicken in a blend of yogurt and spices before grilling or roasting it. The chicken is then simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce that is flavoured with a blend of spices, including garam masala, cumin, and turmeric. The sauce is enriched with cream and butter, which gives the dish its signature richness and flavour.
Butter Chicken is typically served with rice or naan bread and is garnished with fresh cilantro. It’s a favourite among meat lovers who appreciate the dish’s bold flavours and creamy texture. In fact, it’s so beloved that some people even call it “chicken tikka masala’s cooler cousin.”
Joint pain can be caused by various factors such as injury, age, arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions. While many over-the-counter and prescription medications are available for joint pain, some people prefer natural remedies like herbs and spices to manage their symptoms. In this article, we will explore some of the herbs and spices that have been traditionally used to alleviate joint pain.
1. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Its active compound, curcumin, has been found to reduce joint pain and inflammation in studies. Turmeric can be added to dishes or taken as a supplement.
2. Ginger
Ginger is a root that has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols that have anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for reducing joint pain and inflammation. Ginger can be consumed in various forms, including as a tea, supplement, or added to foods.
3. Boswellia
Boswellia is a resin extracted from the Boswellia tree, which is native to India and Africa. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to reduce joint pain in people with osteoarthritis. Boswellia can be taken as a supplement or used topically in creams.
4. Devil’s claw
Devil’s claw is a plant native to southern Africa. Its root contains compounds called harpagosides that have anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for joint pain relief. Devil’s claw can be taken as a supplement or used topically in creams.
5. White willow bark
White willow bark is the bark of the white willow tree, which contains a compound called salicin. Salicin is similar to aspirin and has been found to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. White willow bark can be taken as a supplement or used topically in creams.
6. Cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which is a compound that gives it its spicy flavour. Capsaicin has been found to have pain-relieving properties, making it useful for joint pain relief. Cayenne pepper can be added to dishes or taken as a supplement.
7. Rosemary:
Rosemary is an herb commonly used in cooking that contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. It has been found to be effective in reducing joint pain and inflammation in studies. Rosemary can be added to dishes or taken as a supplement.
8. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice commonly used in baking that has anti-inflammatory properties. It has been found to reduce joint pain in studies. Cinnamon can be added to dishes or taken as a supplement.
9. Black pepper
Black pepper contains a compound called piperine that has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce joint pain and inflammation when added to dishes.
10 Garlic
Garlic is an herb that has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties and have been found to reduce joint pain in studies. Garlic can be added to dishes or taken as a supplement
Herbs and spices have been traditionally used to alleviate joint pain. While some of these remedies may not work for everyone, they are generally considered safe and can be a useful addition to other treatments for joint pain. As always, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or making significant changes to your diet.
Yes, eating too much of spice can be poisonous in some cases. While herbs and spices are generally considered safe to consume in culinary amounts, some spices can be toxic in larger doses.
For example, nutmeg contains a compound called myristicin, which can be toxic in high doses. Consuming too much nutmeg can cause symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and hallucinations.
Similarly, consuming large amounts of cinnamon can cause liver damage and negatively affect heart function.
In addition, some people may be allergic to certain spices, and consuming them can cause severe allergic reactions.
It’s also important to note that some spices can interact with certain medications and health conditions. For example, consuming large amounts of garlic can interact with blood-thinning medications and increase the risk of bleeding.
Overall, while herbs and spices can have many health benefits, it’s important to consume them in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
