Photo: Neha Singh
By: Justin Chan
While some researchers are pushing for regulation of sugar in order to limit heart risks, others say that adding a few spices can potentially help your heart.
According to NPR, a study from Penn State reveals that spicy meals can reduce fat in the blood. More specifically, the spices can cut levels of triglycerides. Sheila West, one of the researchers who conducted the study, said triglycerides are a major risk factor for heart disease and that those who had spicy meals reduced their fat levels by a third compared to those who did not have any spices in their food. Some of the spices that were used in the experiment included turmeric, oregano, paprika, rosemary and ginger.
The research did not determine which spices had the most effect on reducing triglyceride levels, but some experts are already optimistic about the results. [click to continue…]
By: Marnely Rodriguez
You might think I’m crazy to be sharing a chocolate treat. Because after the Valentine’s Day chocolate overdose, you might not think that you can eat another bite of chocolaty goodness? But for me- I can have a chocolate treat every day, no matter what!
What makes these crinkle cookies special? The addition of freshly ground pepper! We’ve seen the savory side of the kitchen cross over to the desserts, and spices are a fantastic way to ease your way into it. Balancing sweet and savory spices takes some practice and testing, but after you find that perfect pair, you’ll surely start getting the hang of it. One of my favorite books to reference in this subject is Culinary Artistry by Andrew Dornenburg and Karen Page. It’ll take you by the hand and guide you to flavor pairings, leading you to new discoveries and old favorites.
Here’s a recipe to get you started in this spicy-savory journey! A dough that comes together quickly and just needs a few hours of refrigeration to set, it’s a great cookie to form and freeze for those moments when all you crave is a little chocolate. And we all have those moments, right? [click to continue…]
Photo: Jazz Guy
By: Ashley Bode
One of the greatest challenges in preparing traditional dishes can be finding the right ingredients; in particular, the right spices. New York City is plentiful in both many nationalities and their corresponding food traditions. Spices are no different.
On Lexington Avenue, between 28th and 29th streets in Little India on the border of Murray Hill,also known as Curry Hill, sits a particular spice-infused institution that that can help. Since 1944, Kalustyan’s has been providing generations of New Yorkers with an array of spices that is hard to match. Originally, the spice shop was home to only Indian spices and groceries, but has since taken the title of an international specialty food and spice shop.
The tiny storefront is misleading, as any visitor will notice. Once inside, it feels as though you’ve stepped into a cave that is hiding the finest of jewels on earth. [click to continue…]
Photo: Clyde Robinson
By: Saira Malhotra
This week, Monica Bhide, Indian food contributor and cook book author, reminded us of the power of spices. Like a palate of colors, spices can change the mood and tone of dishes entirely, even if the rest of the ingredients are exactly the same. Imagine dry rubbing a chicken with Chinese 5 Spice, Garam Masala or Cajun spice mix. The experience would be different and it would beg for an entirely different set of condiments, side dishes and beverages to compliment.
We are always tired of eating the same thing-different day but the solution isn’t far either. Purchasing different cuts of meats or vegetables that we have barely heard of let alone know what to do with, can lead to a discouraging experience if things don’t quite work out. But imagine what just a few different spice blends could do.
Throw in a little Ras-el Hanout and then allow your mind to drift to Morocco [click to continue…]
Photographer: Amanda Opaluch
By Amanda Opaluch, The Cilantropist
Amanda Opaluch is the creator of the food blog, The Cilantropist, where she shares seasonal and vibrant recipes with a focus on eating well and living the good life. Her work has appeared on GourmetLive, Fine Cooking, and The Kitchn, as well as on the food photography galleries Tastespotting and Foodgawker. Read her first piece for MarcusSamuelsson.com here: [click to continue…]
This spring, clean out your spice cabinet and thrust aside all those dried herbs. Fresh herbs are easy to grow and add incredible flavor to even the most mundane dishes. [click to continue…]
Street Food By Marcus Samuelsson
Few places in the African continent show as strong an influence of the Indian Ocean and [click to continue…]
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