Is Kashmiri red chilli good for health?

Kashmiri red chilli is mild and dried chilli which adds rich flavour to Indian cuisine.

By: Mansi Kohli | | Updated: January 30, 2018 1:44 pm

Kashmiri red chilli powder is an Indian variant of cayenne pepper, which is used across the world, especially Tex-Mex, Indian, Chinese, Korean and Thai cuisine. Kashmiri red chilli is mild and dried chilli, which adds rich flavour to Indian cuisine. They are not too hot and their vibrant red colouring add hint of colour to the dish. In fact, the grounded version of Kashmiri red chilli i.e. the powder form is widely used in Indian cooking. It is commonly sold in various grocery stores by different names like Kashmiri chili powder, Kashmiri mirch, degi mirch, deghi mirch etc. Without a doubt Kashmiri red chilli offers a number of health benefits apart from creating delectable dishes for our tastebuds. Dr. Ipsita Chakravarti, RD -Chief Dietitian, CK Birla Hospitals – CMRI shares her insights on goodness of this unique spice:

Advantages of eating Kashmiri red chilli powder
Its mild taste, attractive colour and many health benefits makes it an important ingredient for Indian kitchen. It can be given to kids and to those who do not like much spicy food. Low on heat but extremely rich nutritional value, Kashmiri red chilli is source of myriad health benefits.
– It is rich in Vitamin C that helps in building up immunity. Vitamin C is also very useful for skin & health of blood vessels.
– Kashmiri Chilli powder is a good source of antioxidants that are vital for controlling free radicals and converting them without turning into free radicals themselves. Regular use of this spice keeps body’s requirements of anti-oxidants fulfilled and help in keeping health protected.
– A rich source of iron, potassium, copper, manganese, and magnesium, Kashmiri Chilli is a wonder spice in every way. Iron is vital for improving number of red blood cells, while it also improves oxygen carrying capacity of cells. Other minerals improve cells’ metabolism, keep heart and arteries fit and develop bone health.
– Presence of iron and copper in Kashmiri red chilli is essential in generating new blood cells
– Issues of indigestion can be easily solved with regular use of Kashmiri red chilli. Not only it aids indigestion but also controls intestinal gas problems
– Kashmiri Chilli powder is rich source of B complex group of vitamins like Niacin, Riboflavin and Thiamine. Vitamin B complex group is essential for energy production and is extremely beneficial for nervous system. These are digestive aids and help in improving memory and focus by neutralizing harmful homocyestine which is dangerous for brain health.
– Its ability to supplement vitamin A and flavonoids is also great for great for hair, skin, and nail health.
– Kashmiri red chilli is an amazing detoxifier which helps in clearing up waste products from our body
– Aids in curing cold, nasal congestion and assists in better respiration
– Promotes calorie burning through heat generation

Things to remember while buying red chilli powder:
– If you can grow your own red chilli, then nothing like it.
– Since, most of us don’t have time, opt for buying whole spices and grind them yourself to retain maximum potency and ensure a fuller flavour.
– Don’t buy cheap unpacked spices, if you have no time to ground whole spices at home.
– Purchase quality spices produced by good manufacturer.
– Remember ground spices have shorter shelf life while whole spices remain fresh for a long time.
– Processed spice has no health benefits, so avoid them.
– Lastly, store your spices properly, preferably in air-tight containers. Don’t use wet spoon on them.

Image source: Shutterstock

Published : January 30, 2018 1:43 pm | Updated:January 30, 2018 1:44 pm

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