Ajwain Seeds: Adding a Distinctive Flavor to Your Cooking


Ajwain Seeds - Nature’s Powerful Ingredient

Ajwain seed, also known as Carom seeds in English and Ugargandha in Sanskrit, is a popular spice that is used in Indian dishes. This herb has a hot and bitter taste and is used for medicinal purposes as well. Packed with nutrients, Ajwain is used as a home remedy for numerous ailments because of the benefits it offers.

Ajwain is an essential ingredient in the samosas and is sometimes used in other things like puri, roti, as well as parathas. It is sometimes sprinkled over bread or biscuits. This spice can be consumed raw or can be added to food where it adds flavour and a unique taste, making the food healthier.

Know About The Origin and History Of Ajwain Seeds With Local Sparrow

Ajwain originated in the Indian Subcontinent and the Middle East, possibly in Egypt, but it can also be traced back to Iran and Afghanistan. In India, the major states that produce Ajwain are Gujarat and Rajasthan where Rajasthan produces 90% of India's total production.

Nutritional Value Of Ajwain Seeds

Ajwain seeds possess the following nutritional value. The values are given in reference to 100 grams of Ajwain seeds: (1)

  • It has almost 240 calories. 
  • There are almost 24 grams of protein and 47 grams of carbohydrates. 
  • In addition to that, there are 48 grams of fiber in 100 grams of Ajwain seeds. 
  • There are almost 667 mg of calcium in this quantity of Ajwain seeds. 
  • It has almost 17 mg of iron and 1333 mg of potassium. 

How To Consume Ajwain Seeds

The benefits of eating Ajwain can be obtained by consuming it raw or by adding it to your food. When taken raw, you can simply chew the seeds directly. However, raw Ajwain has a strong smell and taste. It can also be strained into your water or tea. When added to your food, the flavour and taste are more subtle, and with your food, it can be even more appetising.

Local Sparrow ajwain seeds close up shot

Experience Numerous Health Benefits of Ajwain Seed

Ajwain spice has a number of health benefits and a few of those health benefits are as follows: 

Relieve indigestion:

Ajwain can help improve the flow of acids in the stomach by relieving bloating and bloating by improving digestion.  Ajwain is known to relieve colic, infections in the intestine, and any digestion-related problems

Improve levels of cholesterol and blood pressure:

Carom seeds contain calcium-channel-blocking effects that can help to lower the levels of blood pressure. Studies have shown that carom seeds reduce high levels of cholesterol levels.

Fights fungi and bacteria:

Ajwain seeds have powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties and because of the presence of active compounds like carvacrol and thymol, the growth of fungi or bacteria is inhibited.

More!

There is some evidence that suggests the benefits of Ajwain seeds in relieving cough. It may also improve the flow of air to the lungs and has similar effects to a common asthma medication - theophylline.

Culinary Uses Of Carom Seeds

Ajwain seeds are used in Indian cooking for tempering sabzis, curries, baked goods, and more!

Bread - Ajwain is the star ingredient in various forms of Indian bread like roti, paratha, puri, etc. It adds a unique flavour and taste that make it even more pleasurable to eat as well as healthier.

Pickles  - Ajwain/carom seeds are used in masala powders and pickles. When carom seeds are soaked in lemon juice with some black salt, they are dried in direct sunlight and can be used as a mouth freshener or an appetiser.

Mouth freshners - Ajwain is roasted and used with fennel seeds, coriander seeds and more to make a great digestive mix.

How To Increase the Shelf Life Of Ajwain Seeds

Here are the different ways you can increase the shelf life of Ajwain seeds.

  • Keep it in an airtight container, preferably glass or steel
  • Refrigerate it.
  • Avoid moisture and humidity.

Conclusion: Embrace The Unique Flavor Of Ajwain Seeds With Local Sparrow

Ajwain seeds are truly nature's powerful cooking ingredients and offer a great source of benefits for your health and culinary delights. Whether you use them in bread, pickles, or chutneys, Ajwain adds a unique and flavorful twist to your dishes while also promoting well-being. To make the most of Ajwain seeds, store them in an airtight container, refrigerate them, and keep them away from moisture. So, hold the unique flavour and benefits of Ajwain seeds in your cooking adventures with Local Sparrow.


FAQs

Q. Do Ajwain seeds help in improving digestion?

A: There are active enzymes present in Ajwain that are beneficial for your digestive health. It helps to improve the flow of acids in the stomach which in turn helps to relieve indigestion, gas, and bloating.

Q. Does Ajwain water help in treating bloating?

A: Ajwain has carminative properties, which means that it helps alleviate bloating as well as gas by improving digestion. It can be added to the food as a spice or consumed directly strained into your tea or cup of water ajwain.

Q. Can I consume Ajwain water daily?

A: There are lots of ajwain health benefits you can reap from consuming it daily. It can help with any gastric issues you may have, cramps abdominal pain, and more. However, you should consult a nutritionist to check everyday consumption for everyday goals and issues.

Q. What is the major use of Ajwain in cooking?

A: Usually, Ajwain adds flavour to dishes like fried foods and curries. But raw Ajwain has a strong scent and can be peppery and bitter when chewed, however, when added to cooked food, the intense flavour becomes subtle.

Q. Does Ajwain give instant relief from abdominal pain during periods?

A: If you’re looking for quick relief from your menstrual cramps, then you can make some Ajwain tea. There are a lot of benefits you can get from drinking Ajwain water and that includes relieving menstrual cramps. However, it is a food ingredient and not actual medicine so please consult a physician for regular issues.

 Q. What are Ajwain seeds called in English?

Ajwain seeds are called carom seeds in English.

Q. What is the taste of ajwain seeds?

Ajwain seeds have an intense and slightly bitter taste that amalgamates a nutty and peppery flavor. 

Q. Does consuming ajwain seeds help in weight loss?

Ajwain seeds can help manage your digestive health and keep issues such as bloating at bay. This can definitely help in weight management but if you wish to facilitate weight loss, we suggest you strike a balance between healthy eating habits and an active lifestyle, 

Q. How much ajwain can one take in a day?

You can take almost 1/4th to ½ teaspoon of Ajwain seeds in a day. The exact quantity depends on the manner in which your body reacts to this spice and your dietary requirements. 

 

References 

  1. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/806341/nutrients 

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