A super tip from chef Ranveer Brar to enhance the flavour of your dishes

Spices help add depth to a recipe, and if used in the right combination they can even elevate a simple dish into a culinary masterpiece. There are a variety of spices and herbs to choose from — coriander, mint, ginger, and garam masala — with each having a unique flavour profile and health benefits. So when Chef Ranveer Brar suggested adding a dash of certain spices to dishes before packing them, we wanted to learn more.

“Whenever you pack food, ensure you sprinkle some garam masala, coriander leaves, mint leaves, and put some ginger. This will enhance the flavour of the dish,” said Brar.

So, we turned to Ayurvedic practitioner Dr Dimple Jangda to understand how this tip works by understanding each ingredient.

Coriander, a staple ingredient in many kitchens around the world, has a fresh and slightly sweet citrusy flavour. “Whether it’s the seeds or the fresh leaves, coriander adds a burst of freshness to any dish. From a salsa sauce to a tangy chutney – coriander is often the one ingredient that brings out the best flavour,” said Dr Jangda.

Coriander is packed with antioxidants, which can help lower blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation. “In Ayurveda, coriander is known for its cooling properties, making it an excellent remedy for reducing excess body heat. It also improves digestion and promotes a healthy appetite, making it a fantastic addition to meals for those who want to enjoy their food without the discomfort of indigestion,” added Dr Jangda.

Another herb, mint has a cool and refreshing flavour, that can add a flavourful touch to your cooking. “You can add mint to your salads, desserts, and even main courses. It enhances the flavour, improves digestive health, and prevents nausea. Mint has antimicrobial properties, which are great for gut health. It is loaded with vitamins A and C, which helps boost your immune system. In Ayurveda, mint is recommended for its cooling and soothing effects on the digestive tract, and its benefits in reducing bloating and gas,” shared Dr Jangda.

Add some ginger to your cooked meals when packing them; here’s why (Source: Pixabay)

Another kitchen ingredient that improves the taste of food is fresh grated ginger. “With its warm, spicy, and slightly sweet flavour, it is a must-have in many cuisines. It adds a distinctive heat and complexity to dishes, from soups and stir-fries to cookies and teas,” mentioned Dr Jangda.

Ginger is not just about flavour; it is also renowned for its health benefits. “It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce muscle pain, improve digestion, and reduce symptoms of nausea. In Ayurveda, we recommend ginger for its digestive health benefits, and as an excellent remedy for colds and respiratory issues. It helps stimulate the digestive fire (Agni), which is crucial for optimal digestion and absorption of nutrients,” shared Dr Jangda.

The next best ingredient for Indian cooking is desi garam masala which is a blend of spices like cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cumin, coriander, and black pepper, and is a must have in your kitchen pantry. “This aromatic blend adds warmth, depth, and complexity to dishes, making them rich and flavourful. Picture a steaming bowl of curry or a fragrant biryani – garam masala is often the secret ingredient. The health benefits of garam masala are as diverse as its ingredients. This spice blend can improve digestion, boost metabolism, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits, thanks to its component spices. In Ayurveda, garam masala is valued for its ability to balance the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and support digestive health by stimulating the digestive fire,” shared Dr Jangda.

 

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So, how do these four help add flavour to packed tiffin?

Incorporating coriander, mint, ginger, and garam masala into your cooking not only elevates the taste and aroma of meals but also infuses them with a range of health benefits recognised by both modern science and ancient Ayurvedic wisdom, said Dr Jangda. “You can sprinkle it on top of your cooked meals when packing a dabba, as it continues to marinate with the same food and becomes more flavourful before it reaches its destination. So next time you’re in the kitchen, reach for these flavourful ingredients and enjoy the delicious and nutritious magic they bring to your dishes,” said Dr Jangda.

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