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What are some traditional Austrian spice blends used in cooking?

Introduction to Austrian Spice Blends

Austria is a country known for its rich food culture and traditionally prepared dishes. One of the key components of Austrian cuisine is the use of spices and herbs in cooking. These ingredients not only add flavor and aroma to dishes but also have some health benefits. Austrian spice blends are created by blending a variety of spices and herbs that are commonly used in the country’s cuisine. These spice blends are used to add a unique flavor profile to dishes and enhance the overall taste experience.

Popular Spices Used in Austrian Cooking

Austrian cuisine is known for its use of a variety of spices and herbs, including caraway, juniper berries, marjoram, thyme, parsley, and dill. Other commonly used spices include garlic, onion, and paprika. These spices are used in various dishes, including stews, soups, sausages, and pastries. The use of these spices in Austrian cooking is influenced by the country’s geography and the availability of ingredients.

The Role of Spice Blends in Austrian Cuisine

Spice blends play a vital role in Austrian cuisine. These blends are used to add flavor and aroma to dishes and provide a distinctive taste experience. They are also used to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients used in a dish. In Austrian cooking, spice blends are created by combining different spices and herbs in varying proportions. These blends are often kept as family secrets and passed down through generations.

Traditional Austrian Spice Mixes

Austria has a variety of traditional spice blends that are used in cooking. These blends are often named after the region they are from or the ingredients used in them. Some of the most popular blends include Wiener Würze, Tyrolean Speck-Gewürz, and Steirer Kräuter.

Wiener Würze – The Classic Viennese Spice Blend

Wiener Würze is a classic Viennese spice blend that is used in various dishes. This spice blend is made by combining caraway, coriander, fennel, and mustard seeds, along with paprika and a variety of other spices. It is often used in stews, soups, and meat dishes.

Tyrolean Speck-Gewürz – A Spice Blend for Bacon

Tyrolean Speck-Gewürz is a spice blend that is specifically designed for bacon. This blend is made by combining juniper berries, cumin, coriander, and other spices. It is used to add flavor to bacon and other cured meats.

Steirer Kräuter – A Flavorful Herb Mix from Styria

Steirer Kräuter is a flavorful herb mix that comes from the Styria region of Austria. This blend is made by combining a variety of herbs, including marjoram, thyme, parsley, and dill. It is often used in salads, sauces, and vegetable dishes.

How to Use Austrian Spice Blends in Your Cooking

Austrian spice blends can be used in various dishes to enhance their flavor and aroma. These blends can be added to stews, soups, meat dishes, and vegetable dishes. They can also be used as a rub for meats before cooking. When using Austrian spice blends, it is important to keep in mind the proportion of spices used in the blend. Too much of one spice can overpower the dish, while too little can result in a bland taste.

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Bahamas

What are some traditional Bahamian spice blends used in cooking?

Introduction: Bahamian Cuisine

Bahamian cuisine has a unique blend of flavors that is influenced by African, Caribbean, and European culinary traditions. The cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and spicy seasonings. Bahamian dishes are often made with a combination of herbs and spices that give them their distinct flavor.

Importance of Spice Blends in Bahamian Cooking

Spice blends are an integral part of Bahamian cooking. Not only do they add flavor and aroma to dishes, but they also help to preserve food. Many of the traditional spice blends used in Bahamian cuisine have been passed down from generation to generation and are an important part of the country’s culinary heritage.

Jerk Seasoning: A Blend of African and Caribbean Flavors

Jerk seasoning is a spicy blend that originated in Jamaica and has since become popular throughout the Caribbean, including in the Bahamas. The blend typically includes a combination of spices such as allspice, thyme, garlic, and scotch bonnet peppers. Jerk seasoning is often used to marinate meat, poultry, and fish before grilling or roasting.

Goombay Seasoning: A Spicy, All-Purpose Blend

Goombay seasoning is a versatile blend that can be used in a variety of dishes, including stews, soups, and marinades. The blend typically includes a combination of spices such as paprika, cumin, coriander, and garlic. Goombay seasoning is known for its heat and is a popular choice for those who enjoy spicy food.

Conch Seasoning: A Blend for Seafood Lovers

Conch seasoning is a blend that is specifically designed for use with seafood, particularly conch. The blend typically includes a combination of spices such as celery salt, black pepper, and garlic. Conch seasoning is a popular choice for making conch fritters, a beloved Bahamian snack.

Fire Engine Seasoning: A Spicy Blend with a Smoky Flavor

Fire engine seasoning is a spicy blend that is known for its smoky flavor. The blend typically includes a combination of spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Fire engine seasoning is a popular choice for those who enjoy adding heat and depth of flavor to their dishes.

Bahamian Curry Powder: An Indian-Inspired Blend

Bahamian curry powder is a blend that is influenced by Indian cuisine. The blend typically includes a combination of spices such as coriander, cumin, turmeric, and ginger. Bahamian curry powder is a popular choice for making curry dishes, particularly those that include seafood.

Other Traditional Bahamian Spice Blends and Their Uses

In addition to the spice blends mentioned above, there are many other traditional Bahamian spice blends, each with their own unique flavor and intended use. These include blends for making peas and rice, soups, and stews. Some common ingredients in these blends include onion powder, thyme, parsley, and bay leaves.

Overall, Bahamian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices. Traditional Bahamian spice blends are an important part of the country’s culinary heritage and are still widely used in cooking today. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of spicy food, or simply looking to add some new flavors to your cooking, Bahamian spice blends are definitely worth exploring.

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Azerbaijan

What are some traditional Azerbaijani spice blends used in cooking?

Introduction: Azerbaijani cuisine and its spice blends

Azerbaijani cuisine is rich and varied, drawing influences from the Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Middle East. The use of spices is an integral part of Azerbaijani cooking, adding depth and complexity to dishes, as well as providing health benefits. Traditional Azerbaijani spice blends range from mild and fragrant to bold and pungent, and are used in everything from meat dishes to soups, stews, and rice dishes. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular Azerbaijani spice blends and their unique flavors.

1. Sabzi-qovurma: A classic Azerbaijani spice blend

Sabzi-qovurma is a classic Azerbaijani spice blend used in many meat dishes. It is made from a mixture of dried herbs, including mint, coriander, dill, and tarragon, which are finely chopped and blended together. This spice blend adds a fresh and fragrant flavor to stews, soups, and grilled meats, and is often used to season lamb and beef. Sabzi-qovurma is also used in Azerbaijani kebabs, adding a unique flavor to the meat.

2. Piti spice blend: For the hearty meat and vegetable stew

Piti is a hearty meat and vegetable stew that is a staple of Azerbaijani cuisine. The dish is seasoned with a special spice blend, which includes cumin, coriander, black pepper, and sumac. This blend adds a rich and savory flavor to the stew, complementing the tender meat and vegetables. Piti is traditionally cooked in clay pots, which are buried in hot coals and left to simmer for several hours. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for cold winter nights.

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Armenia

What are some traditional Armenian spice blends used in cooking?

Introduction: Armenian cuisine and its spice blends

Armenian cuisine is characterized by its rich flavors and diverse ingredients. It is a fusion of various culinary cultures that have influenced the country throughout its history. One of the key components of Armenian cooking is the use of spice blends, which add depth and complexity to dishes. These blends have been passed down through generations and are an integral part of Armenian culinary tradition.

The role of spice blends in Armenian cooking

Armenian spice blends are used to enhance the flavors of dishes and bring out the natural tastes of ingredients. They are often used in marinades, rubs, and sauces, as well as in soups, stews, and meat dishes. Armenian spice blends are made with a variety of herbs and spices, including cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic, and mint. Each blend has a unique flavor profile that complements different types of dishes.

Adana kebab spice blend: a staple in Armenian cuisine

Adana kebab is a popular Armenian dish made with ground lamb or beef. The spice blend used in this dish is a combination of red pepper flakes, cumin, sumac, and paprika. This blend adds a spicy and smoky flavor to the meat, which is then grilled over an open flame. Adana kebab is usually served with flatbread and a side of yogurt sauce.

Harissa spice blend: a flavorful addition to soups and stews

Harissa is a spice blend that is commonly used in Armenian soups and stews. It is made with a combination of red pepper flakes, cumin, coriander, and garlic. This blend adds a warm and slightly spicy flavor to dishes, which is especially comforting during the colder months. Harissa is also used as a condiment to flavor sandwiches and wraps.

Ras el Hanout: a complex blend used in meat dishes

Ras el Hanout is a complex spice blend that is often used in Armenian meat dishes. It is made with a combination of cinnamon, cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric, among other spices. This blend adds a rich and aromatic flavor to meat, which is then slow-cooked to allow the flavors to infuse. Ras el Hanout is a staple in Moroccan and Tunisian cuisine, but it is also commonly used in Armenian cooking.

Za’atar: a versatile blend of herbs and spices

Za’atar is a versatile spice blend that is used in Armenian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is made with a combination of dried thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac. This blend is often mixed with olive oil to make a dip for bread or spread on flatbread. Za’atar is also used as a seasoning for meats, vegetables, and salads.

Baharat: a blend of warming and aromatic spices

Baharat is a spice blend that is commonly used in Armenian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is made with a combination of cinnamon, cumin, coriander, paprika, and cardamom. This blend adds a warm and aromatic flavor to dishes, which is especially comforting during the colder months. Baharat is used in meat dishes, soups, and stews, as well as in rice and vegetable dishes.

Sumac: a tangy spice used in salads and dips

Sumac is a tangy spice that is commonly used in Armenian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is made from dried and ground sumac berries, which have a sour and slightly fruity flavor. Sumac is often used as a seasoning for salads, dips, and marinades. It is also used as a condiment to sprinkle on top of grilled meat or fish.

Conclusion: exploring Armenian spice blends

Armenian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors and spices. The use of spice blends has been a longstanding tradition in Armenian cooking, and each blend has a unique flavor profile that complements different types of dishes. From Adana kebab to za’atar, Armenian spice blends add depth and complexity to dishes and are a testament to the culinary heritage of the country.

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Algeria

What are some traditional Algerian spice blends used in cooking?

Introduction: Algerian Cuisine and Its Spice Blends

Algerian cuisine is a melting pot of Mediterranean, Berber, and Arabic influences. It is known for its bold flavors and vibrant colors, thanks to the use of fragrant herbs and spices. Algerian spice blends, in particular, play a significant role in the country’s culinary traditions. These blends are carefully crafted to enhance the flavor and aroma of various dishes, from stews and tagines to grilled meats and fish.

The Role of Spice Blends in Algerian Cooking

Algerian spice blends are a crucial component of the country’s cuisine, as they provide a depth of flavor and complexity to dishes. They are made by combining different spices and herbs, such as cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, and cloves, among others. The blends vary depending on the region or the cook’s preference, but they all aim to create a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes.

Ras el Hanout: The King of Algerian Spice Blends

Ras el Hanout is arguably the most famous spice blend in Algeria. Its name means “top of the shop,” which refers to the mix of the best spices a merchant has to offer. Ras el Hanout typically contains more than 20 ingredients, including cardamom, nutmeg, allspice, and rose petals. It is used in slow-cooked dishes like couscous and tagines, as well as to season grilled meats.

Baharat: The Versatile Spice Blend for All Occasions

Baharat is a versatile spice blend that is used not only in Algerian cuisine but also in other Middle Eastern and North African countries. Its name means “spices” in Arabic, and it contains a mix of sweet and savory spices like cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and paprika. Baharat is often used to flavor soups, stews, and rice dishes, as well as to season meat and poultry.

Chermoula: The Tangy and Spicy Marinade

Chermoula is a marinade that is commonly used in Algerian and Moroccan cuisines. It is made by blending fresh herbs, garlic, lemon juice, and spices like cumin and paprika. Chermoula is typically used to marinate fish and seafood before grilling or baking. It adds a tangy and spicy flavor to the dish, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.

Harissa: The Fiery Red Pepper Paste

Harissa is a fiery red pepper paste that is used to add heat and flavor to dishes. It is made by blending roasted red peppers, garlic, chili, and spices like cumin and coriander. Harissa is often used as a condiment or a marinade for meat and vegetables. It is a staple in Algerian cuisine and can be found in almost every household.

Za’atar: The Aromatic and Nutritious Blend

Za’atar is a popular spice blend in Algeria, Lebanon, and other Mediterranean countries. It is made by mixing dried thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. Za’atar is often used as a seasoning for bread, dips, and salads. It has a nutty and aromatic flavor, and it is also believed to have health benefits.

Advieh: The Persian-inspired Spice Blend for Stews and Rice

Advieh is a Persian-inspired spice blend that is used in Algerian and Iranian cuisines. It typically contains cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, and cloves, among other spices. Advieh is often used to season stews and rice dishes, as well as to flavor meat and poultry. It adds a warm and fragrant aroma to the dish, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

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Afghanistan

The Spice Route: Unraveling the Aromas of Afghan Street Food

Introduction: The Spice Route of Afghanistan

Afghanistan, a country that lies at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road and the spice route, is renowned for its cuisine that boasts a fine blend of unique spices and flavors. The country’s cuisine is defined by abundant use of aromatic spices such as saffron, coriander, cumin, cardamom, and ginger, which lend a distinct flavor and aroma to its dishes. The spice route that once connected Afghanistan to India, Central Asia, and the Middle East, has played a significant role in shaping the culinary traditions of the country.

Afghan Street Food: Aroma of Spices

Afghan street food is a delight for food lovers, especially those who crave spicy and flavorful food. The aroma of spices wafting through the streets of Kabul, Mazar-i-Sharif, and Herat, is a testament to the country’s love for spices. The most popular street food dishes in Afghanistan are shawarma, kebab, samosas, and bolani. These dishes are made with a variety of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, which give them a distinct flavor and aroma.

Masala, the Blend of Spices

Masala, a blend of ground spices, is an essential ingredient in Afghan cuisine. Masala is used in a variety of dishes, including stews, curries, and biryanis. The blend of spices used in masala varies depending on the region and the dish. However, the most commonly used spices are cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. The combination of these spices gives masala a unique flavor and aroma, which is an integral part of Afghan cuisine.

The Culinary Influences of Afghanistan

Afghan cuisine has been influenced by the culinary traditions of its neighboring countries, including Iran, Pakistan, and India. The country’s proximity to India has led to the incorporation of Indian spices and flavors into Afghan cuisine. Similarly, the influence of Iranian and Pakistani cuisine can be seen in the use of ingredients such as saffron and lamb. However, Afghan cuisine has a distinct identity of its own, which is defined by its unique blend of spices and flavors.

Exploring Afghan Street Food

Exploring Afghan street food is a must for anyone who wants to experience the country’s unique culinary traditions. Street food vendors can be found in every city and town in Afghanistan, serving up a variety of delicious dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include aushak, a type of dumpling filled with scallions and served with yogurt, and chapli kebab, a spiced beef patty served with naan bread. Exploring Afghan street food is an excellent way to experience the country’s vibrant culture and history.

Unraveling the Secret of Afghan Cuisine

The secret of Afghan cuisine lies in the use of spices and the art of blending them to create unique flavors. The country’s cuisine has been shaped by centuries of trade and cultural exchange, which has led to the incorporation of different spices and ingredients. The use of spices such as saffron, cardamom, and coriander gives Afghan cuisine a distinct flavor and aroma that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Spices and Health Benefits

Spices used in Afghan cuisine not only add flavor and aroma to dishes but also provide numerous health benefits. For example, turmeric, which is commonly used in Afghan cuisine, has anti-inflammatory properties and is good for digestion. Similarly, cumin, which is used in masala, has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. The use of spices in Afghan cuisine not only enhances the taste of dishes but also provides numerous health benefits.

Conclusion: The Enchanting Aromas of Afghan Street Food

In conclusion, Afghan street food is a unique culinary experience that cannot be missed. The country’s love for spices and the art of blending them to create unique flavors is what makes its cuisine so distinctive. The use of spices not only adds flavor and aroma to dishes but also provides numerous health benefits. Exploring Afghan street food is an excellent way to experience the country’s vibrant culture and history, and to unravel the enchanting aromas of its cuisine.

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health

Superfood Turmeric: How Healthy is The “Golden Spice” Really?

Many positive properties are attributed to turmeric: anti-inflammatory, digestive and health-promoting, to name just a few. The effect of the “golden spice” has been studied – but there is a problem.

Golden Spice: What is Turmeric?

Turmeric is similar to ginger and also belongs to the ginger family. However, it has a very intense yellow color. Hence the name “turmeric” or “golden spice”. The plant, which can grow up to one meter high, mainly thrives in Asia. As with ginger, the root is used.

The typical turmeric taste is often described as “earthy”, “bitter” or “spicy”. In the kitchen, it is suitable, for example, for rice or potato dishes, but also for refining vegetables. Since turmeric contains essential oils, proteins and about 5 percent curcumin, the spice is often touted as a remedy for many diseases. But what about the healing powers of turmeric?

Manufacturers advertise that turmeric can be used in many ways and, in addition to flatulence and a feeling of fullness, should also help against osteoarthritis, diabetes, cancer and Alzheimer’s. Turmeric does appear to have positive effects on digestion and a reduction in the feeling of fullness after eating. However, turmeric has not yet been sufficiently researched as a remedy for diseases.

Superfood turmeric as a remedy: This is what the spice can do

Turmeric has been used in India for 4000 years. Turmeric was considered sacred there and was one of the most important spices. In the traditional Indian healing art of Ayurveda, turmeric is counted among the so-called “hot spices”. These are said to have a cleansing and energy-giving effect.

So far, the plant has been tested almost exclusively in cell culture and animal experiments, using extremely high doses that humans cannot obtain from dietary supplements. The results from the laboratory studies are therefore not directly transferrable to humans.

A few human studies have been carried out, but since these included very small numbers of participants, the meaningfulness of these studies is very limited. In general, dietary supplements such as turmeric are not intended for the prevention or alleviation of diseases because, unlike conventional medicines, there is no evidence of their effectiveness. Although turmeric is said to have anti-cancer, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, there is still no serious, scientific standard-compliant study that proves these effects.

Turmeric as a dietary supplement

Turmeric can therefore be used as a dietary supplement, since the curcumin it contains has a stimulating effect on digestion, for example, but it should not be used to combat ongoing complaints. Instead, a doctor should be consulted.

Turmeric as a dietary supplement comes in many different forms: turmeric powder*, turmeric extracts*, curcuminoids*, tablets with additional vitamin extracts* or turmeric oil*. For gastrointestinal problems, flatulence and as an anti-inflammatory, turmeric can be taken as a spice or in the form of dietary supplements and seems to help.

Other effects of turmeric

In addition to its digestive and anti-inflammatory effects, turmeric is said to have a whole range of other effects. If the medical journal Andrologia is to be believed, turmeric can not only flavor food but also help with erection problems. The spice is said to improve blood circulation in a man’s best piece.

Diabetics should also benefit from the golden spice. The ingredient curcumin is said to lower elevated blood sugar levels and contribute to reducing insulin resistance, reports the magazine ScienceDirect

In combination with black pepper, turmeric is said to be particularly healthy: According to a study by the “National Library of Medicine”, pepper is said to improve curcumin absorption in the human body by up to 2000 percent. Thanks to the improved absorption capacity, the spice can develop its abilities even more, according to the researchers.

What is undisputed, however, is that turmeric is a delicious ingredient in various recipes. Probably the most classic recipe with turmeric is the golden milk. With just four ingredients, the healthy hot drink, which is said to have countless positive effects, can be prepared within 15 to 20 minutes.

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health

Miracle Spice: Cumin Helps With Weight Loss and Gastrointestinal Problems

Cumin is best known for its taste – but the oriental spice can do much more. Studies have shown that cumin helps with weight loss. Cumin also relieves stomach problems and can even have a stress-reducing effect.

Studies show: weight loss and lower BMI thanks to cumin

Targeted weight loss is often not that easy: Some foods are actually real calorie bombs – but this does not include cumin, as a study published in 2014 by the “Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences” shows. It involved 88 overweight women who were randomly divided into two groups. One of the two groups ate plain yogurt with three grams of cumin twice a day. The second group also got two portions of yoghurt per day – but without the addition of cumin. As the authors of the study report, the diet plans of the two groups were otherwise identical.

The result is quite remarkable: the cumin powder helped, among other things, to lose more weight and fat mass. In addition, the body mass index (BMI) and the waist circumference decreased. In summary, the authors of the study state that cumin powder in a weight-reducing diet shows an improvement in anthropometric and biochemical parameters in overweight or obese women.

A study by the Iranian “Kashan University of Medical Sciences” with 78 subjects between the ages of 18 and 60 also caused a stir. The participants were divided into three groups and had to swallow one capsule three times a day for eight weeks. One group received a cumin capsule, and another group received a fat blocker capsule. The third group only received a placebo. The results showed that the cumin group achieved about as much weight loss and reduction in BMI as the fat-blocker-agent group. Subjects who only received a placebo lost less weight. In addition, taking cumin had a positive effect on insulin metabolism

Aid in digestion and stress-reducing effect

The essential oils of the spice, which account for up to six percent, are also healthy. Cuminaldehyde is particularly valuable because its intake stimulates the formation of various digestive juices, such as gastric juice and pancreas. In this way, cumin helps to improve the digestive process. This function can be used in dishes that often cause digestive problems.

Cumin is also said to help with various intestinal complaints, such as constipation. An Indian study published in 2014 also showed that cumin helps with diarrhea by inhibiting the frequency of diarrhea, for example. Flatulence and discomfort are also said to be alleviated by eating cumin.

In addition, cumin is said to have other positive effects: a study with rats showed that cumin seeds can have a stress-reducing effect. The anti-inflammatory effect is also interesting

Cumin in the kitchen: healing properties in tea

In the kitchen we can also benefit from the taste and the positive effects. A popular tea is cumin, which can help with indigestion. Only a few ingredients are required for the preparation: cumin seeds, ginger – a real all-purpose weapon – honey and lemon.

Difficult to digest meals can also be enriched with cumin. Recipes with peas, lentils or beans quickly trigger digestive problems – the addition of cumin can prevent this.

Little is known about the side effects of cumin. However, those suffering from diabetes should be more careful: Since the consumption of cumin lowers blood sugar levels, the blood sugar balance can be shaken.

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Food

Marjoram: More Than a Spice – The Herb Has This Healing Effect

The aromatic-sweet spice not only tastes delicious, but is also said to have a healing effect. We will tell you here what exactly is in marjoram.

Effect of marjoram: The healing spice is beneficial

Marjoram is even more popular with many cooks than the spicy oregano. Due to the beneficial ingredients, the application is diverse according to spice experts. Marjoram does a lot, especially for digestion. This is what the aromatic herb contains:
Lots of essential oil: As with other spices, the oils are mainly responsible for the aroma, taste and healing effect of marjoram.
Tannins and bitter substances: In conjunction with the essential oil it contains, the tannins and bitter substances in marjoram are proven to fight bacteria. The spice has an antiseptic effect and therefore helps against inflammation and relieves abdominal cramps.
Secondary plant juices: Marjoram supports the body in the production of digestive juices in the stomach, bile and liver.
Vitamin C and zinc: The spice also contains vitamins that can help with colds and all the side effects such as coughs or runny noses.

One spice, many areas of application: marjoram is not only used in the kitchen

Due to the special ingredients, marjoram is not only popular in the kitchen. When it comes to health, many like to use the spice. Whether it’s a loss of appetite, flatulence and stomach problems, a cough or a cold: marjoram has a healing effect on the human body. For example, a particularly aromatic tea can be made from fresh marjoram. Our tip: For one cup, add one to two teaspoons of leaves and flowers to 150 milliliters of cold water, boil, strain and then drink at a pleasant temperature.

Classically, marjoram is a typical meat and sausage spice. Specialties such as liver sausage and black pudding, for example, are traditionally refined with marjoram. Especially in Bavaria, the herb is often used in the preparation of liver dumplings or roast pork. But the spice is also ideal for potato and mushroom dishes and gives every dish a very special taste. It is particularly recommended for use with greasy dishes. Due to the stomach-friendly, digestion-friendly effect of marjoram, you can avoid annoying stomach pains after a large meal.

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Food

Oregano: Much More Than a Pizza Spice – What The Medicinal Plant Can do

In most households, oregano is probably better known as a spice than as a medicinal plant. However, the healing effect should not be underestimated. The ancient Greeks already knew how to use oregano for healing.

Particularly important: the essential oils of oregano

While only the leaves of the plant can be used for the spice, regardless of the growing season, the whole plant is used for medicinal purposes and reaches its best harvest time at flowering time. The tannins and bitter substances of the plant, as well as their essential oils, are particularly relevant for the healing effect. The latter include thymol, carvacrol, cymene and borneol.

Oregano mainly helps against digestive problems (in the stomach, intestines, liver or bile) and respiratory diseases and has a general anti-inflammatory effect in the throat and mouth. In addition, oregano oil is considered to be the most powerful natural antibiotic. The gesundheit.de platform recommends oregano tea (a teaspoon of oregano in a quarter liter of water) for various purposes:
Sweetened several times a day against coughs
Against indigestion, unsweetened after steeping for ten minutes
Against inflammation in the mouth and throat: gargle with tea

Oregano: Let it cook for a long time

Oregano is still very popular for cooking and is used as a spice in Mediterranean cuisine. It is important to note that the spice develops its flavor best after long cooking.

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