If you are a fan of crispy and savory fried foods like chicken, fish, or vegetables, then you must try a new twist on your recipe- breading. Turmeric, the bright spice that is popular in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, is not only a flavorful addition to your dishes but also a healthful ingredient with many potential benefits.
Turmeric comes from the root of Curcuma longa, a plant related to ginger. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. Nowadays, turmeric is not limited to curries or teas as it has become a popular superfood in the Western world. Its active compound, curcumin, is known for reducing inflammation in the body, which can help relieve pain, improve digestion, and enhance brain function.
To add the goodness of turmeric to your breading recipe, you only need a few simple ingredients that you may have in your pantry already. Here is a basic turmeric breading recipe that you can modify to suit your taste preferences:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
– 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of paprika or cayenne pepper (optional, for spiciness)
– ½ teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder (optional, for flavor)
– ½ teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients until well combined.
2. Place your favorite foods, such as chicken tenders, fish fillets, or sliced vegetables, into the breading mixture, and coat each piece evenly by pressing down lightly.
3. Shake off any excess breading and place the coated pieces onto a plate or a wire rack.
4. Heat up your wok, pan, or deep fryer with oil of your choice until it reaches around 375°F (190°C), which is for deep-frying. If you want to use less oil, you can pan-fry or oven-bake your food with a light spray of cooking oil.
5. Gently lower your coated food pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan or the fryer.
6. Fry until golden brown and crispy, which should take around 2-5 minutes depending on the size and type of food you are using.
7. Remove the fried food with a slotted spoon or tongs and place them onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
8. Serve hot with your preferred dipping sauce or alongside a salad or a sandwich.
The result of turmeric breading is not only visually stunning, with its bright golden hue, but also has a unique aroma and taste that is slightly earthy, warm, and pungent. Turmeric breading can enhance not only the savory flavor of your foods but also their nutritional content. For instance, when you use turmeric breading for chicken, you get a boost of protein, vitamins B6 and B12, and minerals like phosphorus and selenium, which are essential for bone health, energy production, and immune function.
It is important to note that while turmeric is generally safe and beneficial for most people, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions or who are taking specific medications. Always consult with your healthcare provider before adding turmeric to your diet or if you experience any adverse effects.
In conclusion, turmeric breading is an easy and delicious way to spice up your meals and obtain some health benefits at the same time. Whether you are a fan of fried chicken, fish, or veggies, you can make your breading recipe more interesting and nutritious by adding the golden touch of turmeric. Happy cooking!