Sunday, April 13, 2008

Indian Spice & Herb Dictionary - B

Text by: Tanya Munshi
B
Bay Leaf – Hindi – Tej Patta. Bay leaf is extensively used for seasoning dishes like pulao, chicken, fish, mutton curries and kheer. When the oil is hot, just add one leaf before starting to cook. Bay leaf can be easily stored after it’s dried up. Bay leaf is known to have medicinal properties such as anti-fungal, anti-microbial and fights low blood sugar levels and ulcers.

Basil – Hindi – Tulsi. Known in India more as a religious plant, Basil has several therapeutic properties as well. Basil leaves are very effective for cold, cough, cuts and burns and are also used in curries.

Bishop’s Weed – Hindi – Ajwain. This is a pungent spice that can be eaten just like that. Whenever acidity or indigestion attacks your tummy, chew ¼ teaspoon of ajwain and allow the juices to flow down your throat. This will cure your tummy in no time. Bishop’s Weed can be added to bread, pizzas, chicken curries etc. for flavouring.

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