Everyone has heard of her by now. She took it upon herself to break the record for the longest cooking time in the Guinness Book of Records by cooking longer than the existing time of 87 hours. According to her, it took her about five years to plan this feat, and she was able to achieve and surpass her expectations in five days.
Cooking for 100 hours is no mean feat, and so many of us were cheering her on virtually as well as physically. I was so glad she was given breaks to breathe and she had medical personnel available to watch and make sure she was okay, but then I wondered what happened to all the food she was cooking.
It turns out that people that showed up at the venue were eating the food. And the comments were great!
As many Nigerians around the globe did, I celebrated her record of 100 hours like it was my own. As one philosopher put it:
Happiness is amazing. It’s so amazing: it doesn’t matter if it’s yours or not.
We will begin the series by highlighting one of the two foreign dishes she cooked and served, the Chicken curry.
Hilda has since been basking in the euphoria of her deserved win, and we are more than proud of her achievements, but the focus of this series is to highlight the herbs and spices she must have used in some of the dishes she cooked and served during the Cookathon. Some of these meals have the rice staple as part of their ensemble, but most of the spices and herbs used are of Nigerian origin, as she mainly cooked Nigerian meals all through.
1. Spice Chronicles: Exploring the Aromas of Chicken Curry Delight
Originating from the Indian subcontinent and spreading to Southeast Asia, Great Britain, the Caribbean, and even Japan, the Chicken Curry is a savory dish made with yogurt, chicken, and several spices and herbs, that is eaten with flat bread or rice.
Main Ingredients
Different regions add other things to their own versions but for the purposes of this chronicle entry, we are focusing on the Easy Chicken Curry recipe by Esther Clark on BBC Good Food.
The main ingredients are sunflower oil, onions, garlic, ginger, boneless chicken thighs, tikka spice paste, chopped tomatoes, Greek yogurt, coriander, and nuts (e.g. ground almonds).
Herbs and Spices
What comes together to make this sumptuous curry also has tremendous health benefits for us, especially the herbs and spices used:
Onions
Known for their culinary and therapeutic powers, onions are solidly entrenched in the African palate. Onion is a source of various biologically active compounds, such as phenolic acids, thiosulfinates, and flavonoids. They contain compounds like quercetin, which acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
The plant has a variety of pharmacological activities including anticancer, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, cardiovascular, antioxidant effects, etc., justifying its possible use in the treatment of various human ailments.
The role of onions has been documented in reducing the risk of certain cancers, inflammation, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia. They have also been linked to contributing to improved heart health, combating certain infections, and boosting of immune functions in the body.
Garlic
Garlic has been recognized for its therapeutic properties for centuries. It contains a compound called allicin, which has been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal effects. Garlic is believed to support cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
It also has immune-boosting properties and may help alleviate the symptoms of the common cold and other respiratory conditions.
Ginger
Ginger is widely known for its medicinal benefits. It contains gingerol, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. Ginger has been used for centuries to alleviate digestive issues, such as nausea, indigestion, and motion sickness.
It may also help reduce muscle pain and soreness, lower blood sugar levels, and improve immune function. Ginger is often consumed as a tea, added to meals, or used topically in various forms.
Coriander
Coriander, also known as cilantro, is an aromatic herb used in various cuisines. It offers several health benefits as well. Coriander contains antioxidants and has been shown to have antimicrobial properties. It may aid in digestion, alleviate bloating and discomfort, and reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Coriander is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help lower blood sugar levels. Additionally, it is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese.
Tikka paste
The Tikka paste is usually a combination of several spices and herbs, that gives a distinct flavor to food. Here are some of the ingredients commonly used in making Tikka:
Garam Masala: Garam masala is a spice blend typically composed of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. It adds a warm and complex flavor to dishes. Garam masala has been associated with potential health benefits due to its individual components. For instance, cumin and coriander are known for their digestive properties, while black pepper has been linked to enhanced nutrient absorption and antioxidant effects. Additionally, some of the spices in garam masala, like cinnamon and cloves, may possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cumin
Cumin is a versatile spice known for its distinctive aroma and earthy flavor. It is rich in antioxidants and may aid in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. Cumin has been studied for its potential anti-diabetic properties and may help lower blood sugar levels. It is also believed to possess antimicrobial effects and may contribute to better respiratory health due to its bronchodilator properties.
Ground Coriander seeds
Ground coriander is derived from coriander seeds and is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It adds a mild citrusy and nutty flavor to dishes. Coriander has been associated with various health benefits. It contains antioxidants that may protect against oxidative stress and cellular damage. It has been studied for its potential cholesterol-lowering properties and may contribute to cardiovascular health. Coriander also possesses antimicrobial properties and may help support digestive health.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains the compound curcumin. In the context of Tikka, turmeric adds a vibrant yellow color to the dish. Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been extensively researched for its potential benefits in reducing chronic inflammation, relieving joint pain, and supporting brain health. Curcumin’s antioxidant effects may also contribute to its potential anticancer properties. However, it’s important to note that the amount of curcumin in turmeric is relatively low, so curcumin supplements may be more concentrated sources of this compound.
Chilli Powder
Chilli powder, made from dried and ground chili peppers, adds heat and spiciness to Tikka. Chili peppers contain an active compound called capsaicin, which is responsible for their fiery taste. Capsaicin has been associated with several health benefits. It may help boost metabolism, promote weight loss, and reduce appetite. Capsaicin’s analgesic properties may offer pain relief, and it has been used topically in creams for conditions like arthritis and muscle pain. Furthermore, capsaicin has been studied for its potential to support heart health and reduce inflammation.
In summary, the various ingredients in Tikka, including garam masala, cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and chilli powder, contribute not only to the flavor and aroma of the dish but also offer potential health benefits. These include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, digestive support, antimicrobial properties, and potential contributions to heart health, weight management, and pain relief.
Conclusion
By adding these spices to the chicken when making the chicken curry, those who will enjoy the meal when it is ready will not only have maximum flavor but will also enjoy the health and hormonal benefits that these herbs and spices add to each bite.
Do you want to know more about which herbs and spices promote better health for you and those you love? Are you interested in making your own blends? You are the person we created the “Spice Up Your Life” eBook for! Pre-order your copy now.
