African tempting herbs and spices

by Vivek Choudhary Nice life

The term “Herb” and “Spices” refers to the part of plants used for medicinal and cooking purpose all over the world. Herbs can be defined as green, leafy parts of plants. They are most effectivewhen used fresh and grow mostly in temperate hot regions. Whereas spices refer to any part of plant that is not leafy such as root, flower buds and seeds. Unlike herbs they are best used when dry and mostly grow in sub-tropical region. Therefore Africa is one of the best suitable places for the cultivation of herbs and spices. African herbs and African spices are really beneficial and miraculous for our health.

Some of the most known and beneficial African herbs and spices:

AlnifCumin-

Produced in Moroccan village, Alnif cumin is known for its quality and intense aroma. This cumin is used to prepare tajine and traditional soups. It has a variety of medicinal properties and is used to treat coughs, colds and colic.

Za’atar-

It is a traditional spice blend that comes from Middle East. It is the blend of many different flavors, textures and fragrances. It is commonly used as a sprinkler over soups, meat, pasta and vegetables. It has the ability to improve the immune system, boost skin health, increase blood circulation, aid memory and treat chronic diseases.

Mitmita-

It is made from powdered red pepper, is light in color but very hot in taste. It is an aromatic Ethiopian spice used to season “kitfo” and fava beans. It is an excellent way to spice up many dishes.

Taliouine Saffron-

As precious as gold threads, Taliouine Saffron is the world’s finest saffron with bright red and long strands which are highly flavorful. It is used in sedatives as an antispasmodic and as an aphrodisiac. It helps to sooth the stomach and calm the nerves.

Iru-

It is a fermented seasoning used by various tribes in Nigeria. It is soaked and allowed to ferment to get its pungent aroma. It is used in making egusi soup, ofada stew and eforiro. Its leaf is healthy and gives a different taste when used.

KanKanKan-

It is an unusual spice blend popular in Burkina Faso. It contains peanut powder, chilli powder, allspice and Maggi bouillon cubes. All of these are crushed and mixed together to create this spice sprinkler. It has a mix taste of spicy and salty.

Berbere-

It is a hot spice blend full of flavors and highly aromatic. Used as a rub for meat poultry and fish, a seasoning used for stew, soups, grains and vegetables. It is rich in vitamin A and C which helps to protect body from damaging free radicals.

Harissa-

It is widely used in North African countries. It can be defined as a red paste consisting of roasted red peppers, dried chilli and tomato puree.

Used in marinating meat and poultry. It contains capsaicin which is an antioxidant that can boost metabolism, improve heart health and even prevent cancer.

The list does not end here as Africa has a vast variety of tempting and unique herbs and spices. For over the last few decades the popularity and demand of these products are growing at a rapid rate. There are several online African stores that offer quality products with door step delivery option thus making it easier for all of us to enjoy and use the natural boosting agents for our health.