The Kitchen's Winter Allure
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If ever there was a time and a place for comfort food – this Minnesota February is surely it! As we dig ourselves out from under yet another snowfall, the allure of a steaming bowl of soup, a hot baked dish or a refreshing cup of tea beckons us into the kitchen. Though we reach for the familiar and safe recipes out of habit, this is the time to embrace international flavors that offer not only the heat of temperature, but also the warmth of spices.
Middle Eastern, Indian, Mexican and Asian recipes use combinations of spices that warm us from the inside out and offer additional health benefits as anti inflammatories, anti oxidants and more. See Here.
Scope your spice pantry and determine which combinations might appeal to your palate. Let your curiosity lead to meals that are interesting and therefore more satisfying. Cinnamon, turmeric, cumin and ginger combined can take your taste buds to India, Iran or Morocco. Even if you are stuck in the Minnesota winter, your palate can travel all over the world. Let the exploration begin!
Below is my recipe for a quick, light and flavorful Asian Chicken Soup, but here are a few links to get you started as well:
Mexican Tortilla Soup – Leite's Culinaria
Indian Dal – The Globe & Mail
North African Chicken Soup – Leite's Culinaria
Chicken Braised with Cinnamon – Leite's Culinaria
