Tadka or seasoning of spices has been an integral part of Indian cuisine, be it north or south.

Even if you add these whole spices at the start or at the end, tempering brings the flavour out in any bland dish.

Tadka is the process where ghee or oil is heated and tempered with mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, cumin, dry red chillies, hing and curry leaves are other specifically added spices that go with the dish.

And if you thought, tempering is just to enhance tastes, think again. These tiny little seeds when roasted in ghee or oil, provide extra nutrition to the body and impressive health benefits.

Why Is Tadka Healthy?

Fat is an essential nutrient that is required for the absorption of fat soluble vitamins. Ghee or oil enhance the absorption of hidden nutrients from the vegetables, dals or legumes making it easy for the body to process.

The rich array of phytonutrients present in curry leaves, jeera, fenugreek seeds and mustards are heaped with medicinal benefits.

Evidence reveals that tempering oil or ghee with these whole spices help in retaining the active ingredients available in powdered spices like curcumin in turmeric, piperine in pepper for boosting metabolism.

Benefits Of Essential Ingredients In Tadka

Mustard seeds

Mustard seeds are a good source of Vitamin A, E, Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and calcium, magnesium and selenium. Mustard seeds possess strong anti-inflammatory effects that are beneficial in treating asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and lowering blood pressure. The richness of vitamins maintains hair and skin healthy.

Jeera or Cumin

The presence of a rich amount of Vitamins- E, A, antioxidants and essential minerals- calcium and iron in jeera promote digestion, lower cholesterol, help in burning fat and in regulating blood glucose levels.

Hing or Asafoetida

Hing is widely used spice for its unique flavor and aroma and it holds an incredible place for its carminative, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. It also promotes digestion, treats respiratory issues, and regulates sugar levels.

Methi or Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seed is a herb, widely used and praised for its natural remedies. It is beneficial in lowering cholesterol, controlling blood sugar levels, treating stomach problems.

Curry leaves

Curry leaves are packed with an array of nutrients including fibre, calcium, phosphorous, irons and vitamins like Vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin E. Adding curry leaves in your diet promotes your heart health, combats infections and boosts your hair and skin health.