spices Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Surprising Secret to Sharper Memory & Mental Clarity

The AHA! Team — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 05:20:18 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – A familiar staple of spice racks and kitchen cabinets, rosemary is prized by cooks for the piquant flavor it lends to recipes. However, recent research shows that this common culinary herb provides some uncommon benefits when it comes to cognitive function and recall. A British study found that sniffing the essential oil of this ancient herb can improve memory by a remarkable 75 percent, making it a possible treatment for memory problems. Further supporting this, a 2024 study published in Adv Gerontol found that inhaling rosemary essential oil helped elderly participants improve performance in mental tasks, particularly word recognition and proofreading, highlighting its potential for enhancing cognitive function. How did researchers arrive at these results about rosemary? The British study, conducted by psychologists at Northumbria University in Newcastle, involved 66 people. Some were exposed to a rosemary-scented room, in which four drops of essential oil were placed on an aroma stream diffuser and switched on for five minutes before the participants entered. Another group worked in an unscented room. The psychologists found that the participants in the rosemary-scented room performed between 60 and 75 percent better on assorted memory tasks and simple arithmetic than the control group – an impressive result. As part of the study, researchers took blood samples to detect levels of 1,8-cineole, a constituent of rosemary linked to improving memory function. Participants in the rosemary room had higher levels of cineole, demonstrating that the compound can enter the bloodstream through inhalation. In their findings, the team concluded that rosemary could have implications for treating memory impairments, especially in older adults experiencing some decline. Rosemary seems particularly helpful in promoting “prospective memory,” helping people remember future events such as appointments or medication schedules. New studies build on earlier research In an earlier study published in 2003 in the International Journal of Neuroscience, researchers examined the effects of rosemary and lavender and found that rosemary produced significant enhancements in performance for overall memory quality. Interestingly, lavender oil deterred memory, probably because of its mildly sedating effects. While lavender helped people feel more “content,” compared to the placebo, rosemary helped people feel simultaneously more content and alert. In a study of aromatherapy published in Psychogeriatrics, researchers examined the effects of rosemary and lemon administered in the morning – and lavender and orange in the evening – on patients with dementia. The team found that patients experienced significant improvement in personal orientation – with no side effects. Other studies have supported the ability of rosemary to both promote concentration and enhance memory of past events. Research corroborates ancient wisdom Scientifically known as Rosmarinus officinalis, natural healers have long used rosemary to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, fight pathogens, and promote healthy digestion. Although modern research is exciting, rosemary’s ability to improve memory and facilitate learning has been known since antiquity. The ancient Greeks treasured the herb for its memory-enhancing properties, and it was customary for scholars to wear strands of rosemary in their hair when taking exams. The herb’s useful effects were no secret in Elizabethan England, either. Shakespeare alludes in several plays to “rosemary for remembrance.” Fight cancer and oxidative stress in your brain The antioxidant value, or ORAC score, of rosemary, is a massive 3,300, giving it the same potent free radical-fighting power as goji berries. This herb is rich in carnosic acid, an antioxidant that fights oxidative stress in the brain. Another constituent, carnosol, is strongly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory as well. Researchers have found that carnosol selectively targets cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. Of course, studies into the cancer-fighting effects are ongoing. Regarding usage, some natural health experts recommend adding a few drops of essential rosemary oil to a diffuser and running it for about an hour daily. For topical use, dilute a small amount of the essential oil in a carrier oil and massage it onto your upper neck for potential cognitive benefits. We suggest you check with a trusted holistic healthcare provider before using any herb to enhance memory. This is especially important if you have any brain health issues. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Medicalnewstoday.com Dailymail.co.uk NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

The post Surprising Secret to Sharper Memory & Mental Clarity appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Sweet Potato Taquitos Recipe

The AHA! Team — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 04:32:15 +0000

Recipe by: NutritionFacts – Sweet Potato Taquitos are a delicious way to check-off a few Daily Dozen servings! This dish combines beans, whole grains, spices, and vegetables for a satisfying meal. Top with cashew cream and avocados, if desired. Pair with a green leafy salad to check even more Daily Dozen boxes off. COURSE: Main Course DIFFICULTY: Moderate SERVINGS: 4 INGREDIENTS ▢2½ -3 cups chopped sweet potatoes (about 1 large or 2 medium sweet potatoes) ▢1 cup chopped carrots (about 3 medium carrots) ▢3 cloves garlic, minced ▢1 cup chopped red onion ▢1½ cups cooked black beans ▢1 teaspoon chili powder ▢½ teaspoon onion powder ▢½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika ▢½ teaspoon ground turmeric ▢¼ teaspoon black pepper ▢12-14 small corn tortillas ▢Cashew Cream (optional) ▢Avocado (optional) INSTRUCTIONS Boil the potatoes and carrots in 3-4 cups water until soft. Drain the water off. Mash the potatoes and carrots until reaches desired consistency. Feel free to add a splash of unsweetened soy milk or water for a smoother texture. In a pan, sauté the garlic and onion with 2-3 tablespoons of water. Add the spices and cook until the onions are translucent. Stir in the cooked beans. In a bowl, combine the potato and carrot mixture with the black beans mixture. Stir together. Preheat the oven 425F or feel free to use an air fryer with a bake setting. Place a small scoop of the potato and bean mixture on to a tortilla, spread it out, and then roll tightly. Place the seam-side of the tortilla down on a baking sheet lined with a silicon mat or parchment paper (or an air fryer basket). Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas. Bake the tortillas for about 10-15 minutes. Prepare the Cashew Cream, if desired. Thin it out a bit to drizzle on top of the Taquitos or use it as a dip. Optional to top with diced avocado. Enjoy! To read the original article click here.

The post Sweet Potato Taquitos Recipe appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Indian Spice Cuts Dementia Risk by 40%

The AHA! Team — Mon, 13 May 2024 08:01:26 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – By age 60, you have a 50/50 chance of having a clinically enlarged prostate. And it only gets worse every year. When your prostate isn’t functioning properly, it’s hard to enjoy life. There is a new study from Harvard University that demonstrates the power of special plant compounds called flavonoids. It reinforces the advice I’ve been giving my patients for more than 30 years… Increasing your intake of specific nutrients can head off – and even reverse – early signs of memory loss. The Harvard researchers came to this conclusion after tracking the dietary habits and cognitive outcomes of 78,000 study participants for 20 years. They found that those with a high intake of certain flavonoids were almost 40% less likely to experience cognitive decline.1 While it’s not entirely clear how flavonoids protect your memories, researchers believe the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these plant metabolites are in play. But what is clear is that dementia and other forms of cognitive decline are not due to the “Alzheimer’s gene” (APOE-e4) or any other aspect of your DNA. It’s another strong indication genes aren’t to blame for the 110% increase in Alzheimer’s that’s projected to happen by 2050. As a regular reader, you know Big Agra’s endless production of processed carbs is the key cause of Alzheimer’s. Our bodies simply weren’t designed for the industrial, grain-based foods modern humans eat. This starchy diet touches off an inevitable cascade of insulin resistance, inflammation, weight gain, and cellular damage. And it’s one reason a growing number of researchers are beginning to refer to Alzheimer’s as “type 3 diabetes.”2 But I see a bright side to the Harvard study. It supports the message I’ve been sharing with my patients for years now… With the right nutrients, you CAN protect yourself from this terrible disease. Why Your Brain Wants You to “Eat the Rainbow” I encourage my patients to “eat the rainbow.” Flavonoids give fruits and vegetables their bright, rainbow-like colors. Think of red and green peppers, purple grapes, blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, carrots, oranges, grapefruit, and so forth. Other food sources of flavonoids include onions, celery, artichokes, and broccoli – as well as spices like parsley and oregano. But given the increasingly alien environment we live in, there’s one brain-protective flavonoid that stands above the rest. And I recommend all my patients include it in their diet. I’m talking about curcumin. Curcumin is the bright compound that gives turmeric it’s unique golden color. Studies show it contributes to significant memory improvement and stronger cognitive function. Turmeric is the ingredient that gives curry its savory, earthy taste. It’s a member of the ginger family. Some researchers believe the heavy curry consumption in rural India explains the low incidence of dementia there. It’s only about a third of the rate seen in Europe and the United States.3 Protect Your Brain with Indian Curry My family loves to make curry. Here’s one of our favorite recipes: Ingredients: 1 teaspoon coconut oil 4 boneless chicken thighs, cut into small pieces 2 cups diced yellow onion 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons fresh ginger 6 two-inches pieces of fresh turmeric root, peeled and grated 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 can (13.6) ounces of coconut milk 1 cup chicken stock 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 4 cups cubed butternut squash 1 tablespoon lime juice Instructions: Sauté chicken in coconut oil until cooked, then remove and set aside. Sauté the onion until it begins to soften. Then add ginger and garlic. Add remaining spices and cook for about 30 seconds. Add the butternut squash, coconut milk, and broth. Simmer for 15 minutes. Add salt to taste along with freshly squeezed lime juice. Add chicken and serve. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1. Yeh, Tian-Shin, et al. “Long-term dietary flavonoid intake and subjective cognitive decline in US men and women.” Neurology. 2021 Sept;97(10):e1041 – e1056. 2. de la Monte S, and Wands R. “Alzheimer’s disease is type 3 diabetes: Evidence reviewed.” J Diabetes Sci Technol. 2008 Nov; 2(6): 1101–1113. 3. Chandra V, et al. “Incidence of Alzheimer’s disease in a rural community in India: The Indo-US Study.” Neurology. 2001 Sep 25;57(6):985-9. To read the original article click here.

The post Indian Spice Cuts Dementia Risk by 40% appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Frothy Chai Tea Latte Recipe

AHA Publisher — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 07:00:45 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – Chai or chai tea is a popular drink in India, where this delicious hot beverage is often made by boiling tea leaves with milk and adding sugar and spices. My chai tea recipe is a bit of a twist because instead of whole cow’s milk, I use coconut milk. In addition, instead of refined white sugar, I use honey or maple syrup, and instead of including tea, I keep this chai caffeine-free. (Yet it’s ready for the addition of tea if you’d like. Traditionally, chai includes black tea.) This chai tea recipe is so tasty. Rather than being filled with toxic chemicals and artificial sweeteners and flavors, this drink is loaded with chai tea benefits thanks to its antioxidants, real spices and zero refined sugars. It’s easy to make and extremely delicious. So, go on, give this hot, creamy, fragrant beverage a try. What Is Chai? Chai tea, chai latte, chai tea latte — no matter what you call it, chai is a popular beverage these days. Tea lattes are a variation on caffè lattes. Like caffè lattes, they are typically made with steamed milk, but instead of including coffee or espresso, a tea latte is made with tea. However, this chai tea latte recipe is caffeine-free so you don’t have to worry at all about an unpleasant caffeine overdose. So what is chai? “Chai” is the Hindi word for “tea,” which was derived from “cha.” Cha is the Chinese word for “tea.” So what is chai tea? It’s essentially “tea tea” that is made customarily in India, where it’s commonly called masala chai. The spices that go into chai can vary from region to region or even household to household, just like garam masala. Some of the spices most commonly included in a chai include cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and black peppercorn. So wait, does chai tea have caffeine, and how much caffeine does chai tea have? Chai tea only has caffeine if a caffeine source is included in its making. Typically, it does include caffeinated black tea, but it doesn’t have to. As I said, this chai recipe is completely free of caffeine, which makes it a great choice for kids as well as adults! The benefits of chai tea comes from its many health-boosting ingredients. For example, all of the spices are loaded with antioxidants, which are known to play an important role in the prevention of so many chronic diseases. How to Make This Chai Tea Recipe How to make chai tea is really quick and simple. Basically, all you have to do is heat up the milk and then combine all of the ingredients in a blender. The same goes for chai lattes that include black tea. Simply steep the tea and add to the blender. The first step in this recipe is to put the coconut milk into a small pot and warm it up over medium heat. Add the warmed coconut milk to a high-powered blender. Add the honey or maple syrup. Add the date and spices to the blender. Blend on high until well-combined. Pour and enjoy. Your chai is complete! Frothy Chai Tea Latte Recipe Chai tea is a popular drink in India and is often made by boiling tea leaves with milk and adding sugar and spices. Try my chai tea recipe! INGREDIENTS 2 cups coconut milk 1 date, pitted ½–1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup ½ teaspoon cinnamon ⅛ teaspoon ginger ⅛ teaspoon cardamom ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves INSTRUCTIONS In a small pot, over medium heat, warm the coconut milk. Add the warmed coconut milk to a high-powered blender. Add the remaining ingredients to the blender and blend on high until well-combined. Pour and enjoy! To read the original article click here.

The post Frothy Chai Tea Latte Recipe appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Lamb Burgers Recipe

AHA Publisher — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 07:00:34 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – Burgers are a delicious go-to when you’re short on time. They’re simple to prepare and almost always a crowd-pleaser. But plain ole beef burgers can get boring at times — or, even worse, dry and tasteless. Luckily, you’ll never have that problem with these Lamb Burgers. Using a mix of ground lamb and beef ensures that these burgers are always perfectly juicy. And with a unique homemade spice blend, you can be sure these lamb burgers are bursting with flavor. Why lamb meat? Because it’s super healthy! Just three ounces of lamb contains approximately the following: 160 calories 23.5 grams protein 6.6 grams fat (2.7 grams monounsaturated fat) 2.7 micrograms vitamin B12 (45 percent DV) 4.4 milligrams zinc (30 percent DV) 4.9 milligrams niacin (24 percent DV) 0.4 milligram riboflavin (21 percent DV) 0.4 milligram vitamin B6 (20 percent DV) 201 milligrams phosphorus (20 percent DV) 9.2 micrograms selenium (13 percent DV) 2.1 milligrams iron (12 percent DV) 301 milligrams potassium (9 percent DV) 0.1 milligram thiamine (8 percent DV) 0.8 milligram pantothenic acid (8 percent DV) 0.1 milligram copper (7 percent DV) 22.1 milligrams magnesium (6 percent DV) If you’re ready to add some zest to your normal burger recipe, let’s get started. How to Make Lamb Burgers Grab your jalapeño, onion and garlic and pulse in a food processor until finely chopped. This blend is going to give these burgers incredible flavor. The jalapeño adds just enough heat while keeping these lamb burgers mild enough for the kiddos. Toss the mix into a large bowl and then add in the meats, cheese and spices. Adding the cheese right into the mix, instead of layering it on after, means you’ll get melty cheese in every bite of these lamb burgers. In fact, I recommend adding your cheese this way in your favorite all-beef recipes, too. When all your ingredients are evenly combined, use your hands to shape the meat into 8 patties, then stick them in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. The fridge time will keep these lamb burgers firm while cooking — no runaway meat here. Now, in a large nonstick skillet, heat up the coconut oil over medium-high heat. Cook the burgers for 7 minutes per side, or until the patties are nicely browned and cooked through. You can serve these lamb burgers in a variety of ways: try them with a gluten-free bun, on a bed of lettuce or wrapped in a lettuce “bun.” And don’t forget the fixings! You can add healthy fats with avocado, reduce inflammation with tomatoes and add a healthy dose of antioxidants thanks to onions. These lamb burgers also go great paired with my Baked Vegetable Friesor Sweet Potato Rosemary Fries for a complete meal. Enjoy! Lamb Burgers Recipe DESCRIPTION Did you know that lamb is the healthiest red meat? And using a mix of ground lamb and beef ensures that these burgers are always perfectly juicy. These also employ a unique homemade spice blend. Enjoy! INGREDIENTS 1 jalapeño, remove seeds sliced lengthwise 1/2 medium red onion, sliced 1 clove garlic, peeled 1 pound minced lean lamb 1 pound lean ground beef 1/2 cup small cubed raw aged sharp cheddar 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil INSTRUCTIONS In the bowl of a food processor, combine the jalapeno, onion and garlic and pulse until finely chopped. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl along with the lamb, ground beef, cheese and spices, using your hands to combine all the ingredients. Form 8 patties. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm. In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, melt the coconut oil. Fry the burgers for 7–8 minutes per side, until firm to the touch and nicely browned. Serve hot with your favorite toppings on a gluten-free bun, bed of lettuce or wrap in lettuce. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

The post Lamb Burgers Recipe appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Healthy Fried Chickpeas Recipe

AHA Publisher — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 08:00:49 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – “Fried” often gets a dirty rap, but there’s a difference, of course, between using refined oils like canola and soybean to make deep-fried foods like potato chips and chowing down on healthy fried foods. And yes, these do exist — in fact, these fried chickpeas are one of those healthy fried options. I love them because they’re made wholly from chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans), coconut oil and seasonings. Nutrition-rich chickpeas are a terrific source of animal-free protein and full of fiber. And if you haven’t tried them, they are delicious when cooked and crispy, like in this recipe. Slip these fried chickpeas in a sealed plastic bag as an on-the-go snack or enjoy them while watching your favorite TV program. You’ll never go back to those unhealthy chips again. Key Ingredients Are fried chickpeas good for you? They certainly can be. These pan-fried chickpeas balls take the negatives of fried foods out of the equation thanks to healthy ingredients this recipe calls for, starting with the star of the show: Chickpeas. Also known as garbanzo beans, chickpeas aren’t only loaded with protein, but also high in manganese, folate, copper, phosphorus, and several other vitamins and minerals. As such, they benefit blood sugar control, weight maintenance, digestion, immunity and more. Coconut oil. Coconut oil benefits extend to many aspects of health. This source of healthy fat can help with brain, heart, kidney, liver joint, immune, digestive, bone, skin, oral, hair and hormone health. Spices. Cumin aids digestion, immunity, respiratory issues, skin, sleep, bone health and cholesterol, while antioxidant-rich paprika is a spice that can help the entire body. Of course, we already know garlic is one of the healthiest foods on the planet. How to Make Fried Chickpeas Wondering how to cook chickpeas? Frying is one method for how to cook garbanzo beans, which is what this fried chickpeas recipe calls for. Start by heating the benefit-rich coconut oil in a large frying pan over low heat. While that happens, pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel to blot out any excess moisture. Next, add the chickpeas and spices to the pan, and turn the heat up higher to medium. Fry the chickpeas for 10–12 minutes until they’ve reached your desired crispiness level. Personally, I like mine pretty crunchy and toasty. Serve in bowls and eat! This fried chickpeas snack is an easy-to-make recipe and very customizable. Swapping out the spices can give these crispy chickpeas a whole new tastes, too — make curry-flavored ones or Italian-spiced ones. However you choose to jazz these chickpeas up, they’re going to taste great. Similar Recipes Cooking chickpeas is a great way to get these healthy legumes in your diet. Try these chickpeas recipes for healthy chickpea snacks and dishes: Easy, Blended Pea Soup Recipe (With Chickpeas!) Vegan Falafel Recipe Classic Hummus Recipe Healthy Fried Chickpeas Recipe DESCRIPTION These fried chickpeas are one of those healthy fried options. I love them because they’re made from chickpeas, coconut oil and seasonings. INGREDIENTS 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed 2 tablespoons coconut oil 2 teaspoons of each: cumin, chili powder, garlic, smoked paprika, sea salt, pepper INSTRUCTIONS Dry the chickpeas with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. In a large frying pan over medium low heat, melt the coconut oil. Add the chickpeas and spices to the pan, and turn the heat to medium. Fry for 10–12 minutes or until desired crispiness. Serve and enjoy! To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

The post Healthy Fried Chickpeas Recipe appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Nature’s Pharmacy: How to Use God’s Creation to Heal Disease

AHA Publisher — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 08:00:48 +0000

Lorie Johnson via CBN News – Alternative medicine is a type of treatment that continues to grow in popularity. Often it includes treatments that aren’t new and some people might even call them ancient. Since its inception, many have called modern medicine a gift from God. Sometimes, however, we look back to the treatments of our ancestors. Dr. Josh Axe, the founder of the most-visited natural health website in America, says equating healing with pharmaceuticals is a relatively new concept. “Up until 150 years ago when somebody used the word medicine it typically didn’t mean a synthetic medicine,” he told CBN News, “It typically meant an herb or spice, like ginger or frankincense, and all of these things that are referenced in the Bible that’s what was meant by medicine.” In his new book Ancient Remedies: Secrets to Healing with Herbs, Essential Oils, CBD, and the Most Powerful Natural Medicine in History Dr. Axe recommends herbs, supplements, essential oils and foods to treat about 75 different conditions. “For instance, if somebody is struggling with hypothyroidism, I go through those top five herbs so people know exactly what to do,” he said, “If somebody has Alzheimer’s, I go through what to do. If somebody has inflammation, heart disease, diabetes, chronic pain, hormone imbalance, I go through all of those things in there.” Dr. Axe says some natural treatments date back to the dawn of civilization. ‘It’s believed that Abraham taught a lot of these natural ways of healing, using different herbs and foods to support healing,” he said, “And that is the basis of Chinese or different types of Asian medicine.” Why Go Natural? Many people are content to use medicines that are made in a lab, however, if given the choice, might prefer something a little more natural. Dr. Axe points out that many of today’s man-made drugs often began as imitations of their natural counterparts. “For instance, take white willow bark. That’s where they got the idea for aspirin,” he explained, “White willow bark helps naturally thin the blood, reduces pain naturally, is anti-inflammatory. Well, aspirin is actually taken from that. But these pharmaceutical companies wanted to save money, so they started making it themselves, that is synthetic.” Dr. Axe says that process can result in side effects like nutritional deficiencies. “Diabetes drugs actually pull Coenzyme Q10 from your body and certain B vitamins,” he said, “So if you’re on a diabetes drug it increases your risk of a heart attack and stroke. If you have taken an antibiotic drug it kills the good bacteria in your body and also depletes your body of zinc.” Healing Any Disease Begins with This Dr. Axe maintains that regardless of the disease, the first step towards healing involves building a better gut since that’s where most of our immune system resides. “The foods that are most healing to the gut, number one, is bone broth,” he explained, “Bone broth is made up of 90 percent collagen and your gut itself is made up of 70 percent collagen so you have to have collagen in order for it to heal.” He said healing the gut not only involves adding the right foods to our diet, but also subtracting the wrong ones. “Gluten, dairy, and sugar are the things that will most weaken our immune systems.” Marijuana’s Sober Cousin Dr. Axe says we can also boost our body’s natural defenses against disease by balancing our hormones, lowering stress, and getting a good night’s sleep. He says marijuana’s sober cousin, CBD, can do all three. “There are two main compounds found in hemp, which are CBD and THC,” he said, “THC, that’s the compound that can cause hallucinogenic effects where people hear about getting high. CBD is a completely different compound.” So while drug companies churn out their pills, Dr. Josh Axe points to nature. He says we, like people centuries before us, can use the remedies there to cure what ails us. To read the original article click here. For more articles from CBN News click here.

The post Nature’s Pharmacy: How to Use God’s Creation to Heal Disease appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe

AHA Publisher — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 08:00:23 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – How do you make beef stew from scratch? It’s actually not as hard as you might think, especially if you’re using this beef stew slow cooker recipe. With delicious and nutrient-rich ingredients like grass-fed beef, carrots, parsnips and hearty beef broth, this just may be the best beef stew recipe you’ve ever tasted! Unlike stove top beef stew recipes, you don’t have to worry about watching or stirring with this easy version of a classic recipe. This recipe for beef stew only takes about five minutes to physically make, and the rest is just effortless cooking time. If you’re wondering, “How do you make beef stew on the stove?” You could use the same ingredients listed here, but you would have to brown the meat and the onion, combine all of the ingredients in a large pot, bring it to a boil, reduce the heat to low and then let it simmer for two hours, stirring every so often. But if you want a quicker, easier recipe, stick with the directions I’ve laid out here. Get ready to create one of the tastiest beef stew recipes around! Key Ingredient Switch-ups Homemade beef stew recipes provide a comforting mix of flavors, textures and warmth that can’t be beat, especially in the colder months of the year. Many people are looking for an old-fashioned beef stew recipe to experience that same goodness they loved eating as kids. How do you make old-fashioned beef stew? It’s really not very different from this beef stew recipe at all, yet here we are making a few significant ingredients switch-ups! Parsnips: An old-fashioned beef stew meat recipe typically contains potatoes, but I’m using parsnips here instead because of their notable nutrition as well as their distinct earthy flavor that pairs so well with beef. Avocado oil: Unlike old-fashioned beef stew recipes, I’m also leaving out the unhealthy refined vegetable oil and using avocado oil instead. I’m also keeping this recipe completely gluten-free by using arrowroot starch rather than wheat flour. Nutrition Facts Is beef stew good for you? One of the best ways to answer this questions is to show you its impressive nutritional content. One serving of this easy beef stew recipe contains about: 450 calories 38 grams protein 18 grams fat 32 grams carbohydrates 5.2 grams fiber 14.5 grams sugar 106 milligrams cholesterol 770 milligrams sodium 8,383 IUs vitamin A (over 100 percent DV) 33 milligrams vitamin C (37 percent DV) 4.2 milligrams iron (23 percent DV) 679 milligrams potassium (14 percent DV) 34 micrograms folate (8.5 percent DV) 0.1 milligrams thiamin (8.3 percent DV) 92 milligrams calcium (7.1 percent DV) 1.2 IUs vitamin D (6 percent DV) 0.1 milligrams vitamin B6 (5.9 percent DV) 51 milligrams phosphorus (4.1 percent DV) 16 milligrams magnesium (3.8 percent DV) 0.5 milligrams vitamin E (3.3 percent DV) 0.4 milligrams niacin (2.5 percent DV) 0.2 milligrams zinc (1.8 percent DV) How to Make This Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe How do you make homemade beef stew? It’s truly a 1-2-3 process with this recipe. You cut up the vegetables, combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and then let it cook for hours. Yes, that’s it! As you may have guessed, this low and long cooking time results in a incredibly flavorful stew that is perfect for lunch or dinner. A too thin or too thick beef stew recipe misses the mark, but I think you’ll find that this upgraded yet perfectly basic beef stew recipe has a consistency that is just right. If you have the time, don’t forget about my beef broth recipeso you can make this recipe even more homemade. Ok, let’s get started! First, you’ll need to get your veggies sliced and diced. Now you have the mushrooms, onions, parsnips and carrots cut up and ready to go into the pot. Add the chunks of beef to the slow cooker and then begin adding the vegetables. Add in all of the remaining ingredients, including the flavor-boosting spices. Last but not least, add in the fresh herbs. Cook on low for six to eight hours. Top with fresh chopped parsley and serve. I hope you enjoy this healthy take on a good old-fashioned beef stew recipe. Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe DESCRIPTION With delicious and nutrient-rich ingredients like grass-fed beef, carrots, parsnips and hearty beef broth, this just may be the best beef stew recipe you’ve ever tasted! INGREDIENTS 2 pounds grass-fed beef stew meat 4 carrots, coarsely chopped 2 parsnips, coarsely chopped 2 cups beef broth 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 6 ounces tomato paste 2 cups fire-roasted tomatoes 1 cup mushrooms, sliced 1 onion, sliced 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped 3 sprigs thyme 3 bay leaves 2 tablespoons avocado oil 4 tablespoons arrowroot starch 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon black pepper parsley, for garnishing INSTRUCTIONS Place all ingredients into a slow cooker except for the parsley. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Top with chopped parsley and serve. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

The post Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Palak Paneer Recipe

AHA Publisher — Sun, 09 Aug 2020 07:00:43 +0000

Dr. Axe – Do you love the taste of Indian spices, but you’re not really sure how to use them to make new and exciting dishes? Like my chicken tikka masala recipe, my palak paneer is made with traditional Indian spices, but it’s also vegetarian friendly. It’s a rich, satisfying and nutrient-dense dish that pairs perfectly with Paleo naan bread. You’re going to love the creaminess that comes from the goat feta and goat yogurt, the warming flavors that come from garam masala and the nuttiness from the cashews. Plus, with veggies like spinach, green peppers and tomatillos, this recipe packs a nutritious punch — with loads of vitamin K and A. What Is Palak Paneer? Palak paneer is an Indian dish that’s made with pureed spinach (palak) and paneer, a type of cheese that’s similar to cottage cheese and commonly consumed in South Asia. Palak paneer is also prepared with an array of delicious and versatile spices, including garam masala, curry and turmeric. Did you know that garam masala usually contains more than 10 different spices? It typically contains warm spices like nutmeg, smoked paprika, cardamom, clove, cinnamon and cumin. You’ll commonly find garam masala in curries, soups and even hummus recipes. Turmeric, another classic ingredient used in palak paneer, is also the main spice used in Indian curries. Not only are there a number of powerful, healing turmeric benefits, but it adds a unique earthy flavor to this dish. Palak paneer is a versatile dish because it falls within the guidelines of a vegetarian diet, as it’s completely free of meat, and it’s also gluten-free. It may seem like more of a dip or side dish, but it’s high in protein, nutrient-dense and very filling, so I recommend trying it for dinner. Is Palak Paneer the Same as Saag Paneer? Palak paneer is different than saag paneer because the latter is a leaf-based dish that can be made with spinach, or other leafy greens like collard greens or mustard leaf. Unlike palak paneer, saag paneer doesn’t always contain cheese. In fact, there are a lot of popular variations of saag paneer, like leafy greens and potatoes, and greens with goat or lamb. What’s similar about these two vegetarian dishes is that they are both puréed and commonly paired with a type of bread, like naan. Palak Paneer Nutrition Facts One serving of my palak paneer made using this recipe contains roughly the following: (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) 207 calories 11 grams protein 16 grams fat 6 grams carbohydrates 1.4 grams fiber 2 grams sugar 107 micrograms vitamin K (119 percent DV) 2,467 IUs vitamin A (106 percent DV) 0.5 milligrams copper (58 percent DV) 512 milligrams sodium (34 percent DV) 0.5 milligrams manganese (28 percent DV) 186 milligrams phosphorus (27 percent DV) 0.2 milligrams vitamin B2 (21 percent DV) 52 milligrams magnesium (17 percent DV) 0.2 milligrams vitamin B6 (16 percent DV) 1 milligram zinc (14 percent DV) 2.2 milligrams iron (13 percent DV) 51 micrograms folate (13 percent DV) 112 milligrams calcium (11 percent DV) 8.6 milligrams vitamin C (11 percent DV) 0.4 milligrams vitamin B5 (9 percent DV) 1.2 milligrams vitamin E (8 percent DV) 3.6 micrograms selenium (7 percent DV) 0.14 micrograms vitamin B12 (6 percent DV) 257 milligrams potassium (5 percent DV) 0.6 milligrams vitamin B3 (5 percent DV) How to Make Palak Paneer To make your palak paneer, you’ll need a large saucepan and a food processor, or blender. Begin by adding 2 tablespoons avocado oil to your saucepan over medium heat. Then add in ¼ cup chopped cashews, ½ a minced shallot, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 tablespoon garam masala, 2 teaspoons curry and 1 teaspoon sea salt. Whisk and sauté your ingredients for about a minute so you give the spices a chance to bloom. Next, add in a cup of sliced green pepper and 2 chopped tomatillos. Then add a cup of water to the mixture. At this point, you can let the veggies sauté for about 10 minutes until they are soft. Now you’re going to add in 5 to 6 cups fresh spinach and ½ cup cilantro. Then let it all cook for about 5 more minutes. Awesome — the cooking part is done. Now you’ll transfer your mixture into a blender or food processor. Blend your palak paneer until it’s nice and smooth. Then pour it back into your saucepan and add ½ cup goat yogurt and 1½ cups goat feta. Wow! How amazing does that smell? I know you’re going to love the rich and creamy texture of this palak paneer too. Enjoy! Ingredients: 2 tablespoons avocado oil 5–6 cups spinach 1 tablespoon garlic, minced 1 tablespoon garam masala 2 teaspoons curry ½ shallot, minced 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 cup green bell peppers, sliced 2 tomatillos, chopped 1 tablespoon ginger, grated ½ lime, juiced ¼ cup cashews, chopped 1½ cups goat feta ½ cup goat yogurt ½ cup cilantro 1 cup water 1 teaspoon sea salt Directions: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine oil, cashews, shallots, ginger, garlic, garam masala, curry and salt. Whisk and sauté for about 1 minute to bloom spices. Add green peppers, tomatillos and water. Sauté until veggies are soft. About 10 minutes. Add in spinach and cilantro and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and pour mixture into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Pour mixture back into pan and add yogurt, lime juice and feta. Mix thoroughly. Serve with gluten-free naan. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

The post Palak Paneer Recipe appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.