Research-backed
It is a no-brainer that most Indians have a high opinion of the West when it comes to lifestyle, technology, and fashion. Even things like parenting tips, pregnancy know-how, and medicine are mostly west-driven. That being said, we seldom realize that Indians, more specifically our ancestors have left us a legacy of cooking secrets hidden right in our kitchens.
Be it health remedies or food ideas, Americans have been happily borrowing them from us. From the humble dal to the haldi ka doodh, here are 5 foods which American moms have been stealing from our kitchens!
1. Coconut Oil
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It has always been around our house, right? From preventing hair fall, keeping skin nourished, and adding great flavor to food, coconut oil is one of the most versatile ingredients there is! One of the essential benefits of coconut oil is reduction in the risks of cardiovascular problems. This oil has its origins in Kerala, and now Americans are said to consume it by the second.
2. Turmeric Milk
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Just a few weeks ago, I saw a video of turmeric milk taking America by storm. While we as Indians have been using it for ages, thanks to our grandmothers and mothers to cure a plethora of health issues, the USA has been introduced to it in the recent past. The roots of turmeric spice are found mainly in India and act as an impeccable natural medicine to treat health issues like cold, flu, sore throat and even heal wounds.
In addition to this, it is an essential ingredient of most face packs in order to treat pimples, acne, and blemishes on the skin. Research has found turmeric to be an antidote for rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, colon, and prostate cancer (1).
3. Banana Chips
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Famous mostly in the Southern part of India, banana chips are every Indian’s weakness. Bananas are high in vitamins and minerals, which gives you a perfet excuse to munch on these delicacies. You can find banana chips in possibly every food shop in India and it is now becoming a huge rage in the US as well.
4. Cinnamon
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Cinnamon rolls are one of the most favorite treats in America. Scroll through most cooking channels, and you’ll find at least ten different recipes for cinnamon rolls. There are very few desserts in the US, which do not include cinnamon as an ingredient. Be it cakes, frappes, pancakes, waffles or buns; it is a crucial part of many American recipes.
Cinnamon has forever been used in Srilanka, and slowly popularized in the Norther part of India. It has several benefits that act as a protection against inflammation, depression, nerve disorders and also regulates sugar levels (2).
5. Lentils
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I’m sure all Indians have tasted different kinds of dals all through their lives. It is a known staple in the country and is making its way into all American kitchens. This introduction happened due to the influence of Canada on USA but ended up being consumed more in the USA owing to the increasing Indian population in the country.
This article is meant to let Indians understand that they do not need to look up to the West for ideas, instead make a note of the ones that our grandmothers have left for us. There are tonnes of variations that you can try while making dishes out of the above ingredients. These items don’t just provide a boost to your health, but taste like heaven too.
So, how many of these have you tried experimenting with? Do you have any recipes that you would like to share with us? Comment below with your ideas!
