Lamb – the Leaner Meat

If you’re trying to change up your dietary choices, lamb can be an excellent choice. It’s leaner, and it’s full of protein and essential vitamins. For health and for flavor, lamb creates a perfect alternative.

Lamb certainly fits into what the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) definition of what leaner meat is. Three ounces of lamb only has 175 calories. It also has less than 10 grams of fat, and less than 4.5 grams of saturated fat.

Lamb is a great source for protein and iron as well. An average portion can provide up to 20 percent of a person’s daily, recommended iron intake. Both iron and protein are so essential to have daily, especially to aide in the formation of red blood cells.

Zinc and B12 are also two essential vitamins that can be found in lamb. While zinc can be helpful for growth, vitamin B12 is essential for brain function. Both of these vitamins help to support the immune system, allowing you to be strong and healthy.

Come in and start adding lamb into your diet today! Many of our dishes include lean lamb. Try popular dishes like Lamb Saag, Lamb Vindaloo, or Lamb Tikka Masala! Contact us for more information.

The Secrets of Indian Spices

Indian cuisine combines a number of different spices. The common term for this cooking method is “Masala.” You may even notice its name within the dishes that you order. Masala style cooking is the cornerstone of Indian food, with its expansive use of spices and flavors.

Asafoetida

This spice is used in most Indian vegetarian dishes. It has a unique scent and flavor. Its powder comes from large fennel plants, created a soothing flavor that does not burn. It’s especially ideal for dishes with cauliflower.

Tej Patta (Bay Leaf)

You’ve probably seen or used bay leaves before. They’re essential for soups and stews, creating a rich, warm and smooth flavor. The leaf itself is tough and is generally only added while cooking. The leaf is usually removed before serving. As an added benefit, bay leaves can also be very healthy. They are rich in vitamin C, iron and magnesium.

Ajwain (Carom Seeds)

These seeds are typically turned into powder for Indian dishes. Used as a digestive aid, it is often used in vegetarian dishes to counter the effect of beans. It’s taste and flavor can be compares to coriander, cumin and fennel.

Cinnamon

Fragrant, sweet and warm, everyone can appreciate cinnamon. However, it’s not just used for sweets. It also has a number of health benefits. It is considered to be a “anti-microbial” food, and is said to stop fungus growth.

Cloves

Cloves are also known for their sweet and aromatic flavor. They make excellent additions to Indian dishes, soups and chilis. Cloves contain eugenol, which has a number of different health benefits. Eugenol has even been used in health studies as a preventative ingredient in environmental toxicity.

For more information on Indian dishes and flavors, give us a call! Or, stop in and try some of our signature dishes at Sitara India!