Asian ancient science of Ayurveda has extolled the benefits of a number of spices that in good time sprouted from the soil of the sub continent. There are a number of spices that are used exclusively for their medicinal properties and not necessarily only taste. There are spices extolled by this ancient science grown exclusively to cure digestive ailments and some to external injuries, like burns and even itchy skin. One such wonder spice in the Indian kitchen is the pomegranate seed or anardana.
The fresh fruit is dried and preserved and then used to address a variety of illnesses. Pomegranate seed or anardana is believed to be a tried and tested remedy for a number of liver complaints. The spice is also being used to address anemia and the set backs of rheumatism. In regular Indian cooking, pomegranate seed or anardana is used as part of the seasoning or garnish. The dried seeds add to quality when used as part of garnish. Pomegranate seed can be used in any lentil preparation, vegetable turn out or even rice, as seasoning.
Anardana is also commonly used as part of the array of after mints served from the typical Indian kitchen. The home remedies that spring from the kitchen garden include the use of pomegranate seed or anardana to cure nausea and fever and numerous eye diseases. The daily dose of pomegranate seed is also believed to reduce and finally cure insomnia. In Indian cooking, the spice is thrown into hot oil or ghee as part of the seasoning for any dal or vegetable or meat preparation.
Pomegranate seed is available easily and can be accessed from any grocery store. The seed is small and can be seen commonly displayed on the kitchen shelf. Children eat it as it is, while adults indulge in the goodness in great snacks turned out. Pomegranate seed is also used in salads. It can be tossed up, as it is, and the flavor adds quality to any base. The Pomegranate seed is versatile and now the fruit is no more confined to only being eaten raw or in the juice form.
The seeds make a pretty sight in food and the qualities attributed to the seed make it a welcome one. The versatility in use of pomegranate seed has made it an important kitchen ingredient. A number of dry ground masalas for various preparations have pomegranate seed or anardana as an important ingredient.
