Anybody who has tried sushi must be familiar with wasabi. Although most of us avoid it because of its extreme spiciness and bitter taste, Wasabi, also called Japanese horseradish, has terrific health benefits that can work wonders for you.
As per a study published in the ‘National Library of Medicine,’ it was suggested that wasabi might be a novel alternative treatment to assist in managing obesity and related metabolic disorders.
Health Benefits of Wasabi
With its distinctive pungent flavour and bright green hue, Wasabi is a powerhouse of therapeutic properties that can boost your well-being:
- Immune Support: Wasabi is rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that enhances the immune system’s function, helping to defend the body against infections and illnesses.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Wasabi is a great natural way to mitigate inflammation inside the body.
- Antimicrobial Effects: The antimicrobial properties of wasabi can help combat harmful bacteria, promoting a healthier gut environment and reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
- Digestive Aid: Wasabi supports digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes, which can aid in the breakdown of food and alleviate digestive discomfort.
- Heart Health: Wasabi also promotes cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Delicious Ways to Use Wasabi in Indian Cuisine
Incorporating wasabi into Indian recipes can add a unique and zesty twist to traditional dishes. While wasabi is not a traditional ingredient in Indian cuisine, its bold flavour and health benefits can complement various Indian flavours:
Wasabi Chutney
Create a tangy and spicy wasabi chutney by blending fresh wasabi paste with mint leaves, cilantro, green chillies, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
Wasabi Raita
Wasabi can be the perfect modern touch to the classic Indian raita by mixing wasabi paste into yoghurt. Add salt, cumin and dry mint to add an extra kick to your raita.
Wasabi Masala
Enhance your masala with a punch of wasabi. Whether it’s chicken, paneer, or vegetables, marinate the ingredients with a blend of traditional Indian spices and a hint of wasabi paste for a fusion of flavours.
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Wasabi Chaat
Elevate your chaat game by sprinkling a pinch of wasabi powder over your favourite recipes like bhel puri or papdi chaat. The wasabi flavour adds an unexpected kick to the tangy and savoury chaat.
Wasabi Mayo
Mix wasabi paste with mayonnaise to create a zesty spread for sandwiches, burgers, or wraps.
Wasabi Tandoori Tikka
Marinate chicken, fish, or paneer in a mixture of yoghurt, indian spices, and wasabi paste, then cook them in a tandoor or oven. The result is a flavorful and spicy tandoori tikka with a modern twist.
Wasabi Curry
Prepare a creamy curry with wasabi-infused coconut milk, vegetables, and protein like meat or soybeans.
Adding Wasabi to Your Daily Diet
Wasabi is highly potent, so start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preferences. You can also balance the wasabi’s spiciness by adding neutralising elements like sugar or yoghurt to your recipes. Beyond its reputation as a sushi condiment, wasabi offers a range of health benefits. From boosting the immune system to supporting heart health and aiding digestion, wasabi can be a flavorful addition to your diet, bringing a bold taste and a host of nutritional advantages.