Food Inspired by Ayurveda
Ayurved (popularly known as Ayurveda), an ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between mind, body, and spirit. This holistic approach extends to the food we consume, as Ayurved believes that diet plays a crucial role in promoting overall well-being. By incorporating specific principles and ingredients, we can create meals that are both delicious and nourishing, inspired by Ayurvedic principles.
One key aspect of Ayurvedic cooking is the use of fresh, whole foods. These ingredients are considered to be more energetically pure and are believed to have a positive impact on our bodies. Organic fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts are all staples in an Ayurvedic-inspired diet. By choosing these foods, we can ensure that our meals are packed with essential nutrients and vitality.
Ayurved also places great importance on the six tastes - sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. Each taste has a unique effect on our body, and a balanced meal should incorporate all six tastes. For example, a meal could include sweet fruits, sour yogurt, salty seaweed, bitter greens, pungent spices like ginger and garlic, and astringent lentils. By combining these tastes in a harmonious way, we can create a well-rounded and satisfying culinary experience.
Another principle of Ayurveda is the belief that our bodies have different needs based on our individual constitutions or doshas - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha has specific dietary guidelines to maintain balance. For example, Vata types benefit from warm, grounding foods like cooked grains and root vegetables, while Pitta types thrive on cooling foods like cucumbers and coconut. Kapha types, on the other hand, do well with light, spicy foods that stimulate digestion.
In Ayurvedic cooking, spices play a crucial role in enhancing both the flavor and medicinal properties of a dish. Turmeric, cumin, coriander, cardamom, and ginger are commonly used spices in Ayurveda. These spices not only add depth and complexity to a meal but also have numerous health benefits. Turmeric, for instance, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while ginger aids digestion and soothes the stomach.
Ayurvedic cuisine encourages mindful eating practices, such as eating in a calm and peaceful environment, chewing food thoroughly, and avoiding distractions. By practicing mindful eating, we can better connect with our bodies, savor the flavors of our meals, and improve digestion.
To adapt to Ayurvedic-inspired food and a holistic approach to nourishing their bodies and promoting overall well-being, International Desi offers food products that can easily be incorporated to balance the six tastes in along with fresh, whole foods. Considering our individual constitutions, and utilizing spices, we can create special mixture of spices, condiments and that are not only delicious but also support your health. These are for creating vegetable curries, soup bases, flavoured and medicinal teas etc.
So, let us explore the wonders of Ayurvedic cuisine and embark on a journey of wellness through food.
