29 essential ingredients to have in your kitchen
GARLIC
One of the oldest cultivated plants in the world and a good source of manganese, selenium and vitamin C, Garlic is used to give a flavour in not just the main dishes but also side dishes and sauce.
CHILLI
It not only adds flavour to the food but also has some health benefits such as it reduces pain, a good source of Vitamin A and enhances blood circulation.
CUMIN
Cumin seeds add a warm flavour and strong aroma to the dishes, it is also a good source of iron and keeps the immune system healthy.
MUSTARD
Used as seeds, oils and sauce, Mustard spices up the food and contains health benefits like controling symptoms of asthma and weight loss.
BLACK PEPPER
Black pepper is used as spice or seasoning to add flavour to food. It also has some health benefits such as relief from respiratory disorders, cough and cold.
SEA SALT
Acquired from evaporating seawater, this salt has some essential minerals and nutrients that are good for body to stay healthy.
EGGS
One of the most versatile ingredients to have in your kitchen, Eggs are a great source of protein.
HONEY
A great source of Vitamin c, calcium and iron, Honey has been used around the world in different ways such as it can be eaten directly, can be mixed with lime juice and also used in medicines.
OLIVES
Raw olives are bitter in taste but once soaked in salt or brine the colour changes from green to red-brown and then black with change in taste as well ranging from salty to sweet.
PICKLES
Pickles are used to give food an interesting twist in flavour. In Picture : Jars of colorful pickled produce, including, from left, pickled cherries carrots, asparagus , cucumbers and okra.
CHEESE
Cheese is a food product derived from milk which comes in many different flavours and textures and contains calcium, protein and vitamins.
BROWN RICE
Rich in protein, calcium, magnesium, fiber, and potassium, brown rice can be used in side dishes and soups also.
SUGAR
A must have ingredient for baking cakes, drinks and cooking.
TOMATOES
Tomato is a kind of fruit but is served and cooked as a vegetable used in sauces, salads, soups and other dishes.
DRIED HERBS
Dried herbs such as basil, coriander, bay leaves and mint are used to add a flavour to the dish.
GINGER
Ginger is used as a spice which adds flavour to dishes with certian health benefits such as it eliminates gastrointestinal distress and reduces dizziness, vomiting, and headaches.
KETCHUP
Ketchup is a must have – what else will you have your sandwiches with and a host of other snacky items!
LEMON
Lemons are great addition to your dressings if you want to pack a punch to your salads. It is also used as a preservative.
ONIONS
Onions are a must-have in your fridge since it can be used to season meats, stews, soups, curries, gravies.
POTATOES
A staple diet in most countries, roast it, grill it, mash it, boil it, bake it – potatoes can be prepared in any way you can think of!
APPLES
As the adage goes, an apple a day keeps the doctor away, is especially true since apples contain a high concentration of nutirents, is an anti-oxidant and is also considered to rid your body of carcinogens.
MUSHROOMS
Mushrooms are especially helpful to bulk up your dish for surprise guests and can pack that extra bit of flavour to an otherwise regular mains.
YOGURT
An all-rounder, yogurt has many uses – dietary and health. Yogurt can be eaten as a breakfast, is used in food preparations and is also used as an essential ingredient for hair and face masks.
VINEGAR
Vinegar is especially handy if one if making dressings for salads.
OATMEAL
Research suggests that oatmeal is helpful if you want to reduce your cholesterol, and it is said to curb one’s appetite.
DRIED FRUITS
Dried fruits are not just healthy alternatives if you want to snack but they are also useful ingredients in sauces, preparation of meat certain meat dishes and essential ingredients in many Indian cuisines.
MAYONNAISE
Use it as a dip or spread it on a sandwich. Add some herbs, seasonings or garlic to your mayo to make it more flavourful.
WHOLE GRAIN BREAD
healthy and flavourful, whole grain bread is great for a light snack or meals-on-the-go. Make yourself some sandwiches or just toast them – most seasonings can be paired with bread giving it an extra zing.
BEANS
A versatile ingredient, beans are essential ingredients in various cuisines around the world and can be used to make soups, stews and a host of other dishes – be it breakfast, lunch or dinner.
