The Holidays are just around the corner and, personally, the first thing I'm doing is making sure that I'm stocking up on all of the things that I need to make my favorite meals taste great. The best way to do that is to make sure that your spices cabinet is well stocked with fall spices. Plus, for an extra added bonus, these 5 fall spices will actually improve your health while they make your food taste better, according to Women's Health magazine. I know that I'll definitely be making sure that I have all of these on hand this season.
Read more ¿Qué más? 7 Latino fall foods that help you lose weight!
Cinnamon
This is my absolute favorite Latin spice, constantly reminding me of my abuelita's kitchen whenever I add it to anything. The best part is that studies have shown that cinnamon can fight bad breath AND possibly help control blood sugar levels. The best way to use it is to add it to your favorite desserts or simply sprinkle some in your yogurt or morning coffee.
Bay Leaves
What Latina doesn't use bay leaves when she cooks? I don't know about you, but my mami taught me to throw one into anything I'm cooking, particularly beans, soups and stews. Well, a study found that people with diabetes had lesser spikes in blood sugar when they added more bay leaves into their diet. So don't forget to do as your mami taught you!
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a spice that I use to sweeten things up almost as much as cinnamon. It's especially great in boniato (sweet potato) and calabaza (pumpkin) dishes, which as just warm and soothing this time of year. Just a dash of heat from this spice can help relieve indigestion, constipation and heartburn, according to researchers who have found it has digestive benefits.
Turmeric
Although this spice is traditionally used in Indian and Thai curries (it's what gives them that bright orange color), there are some great Latin-flavored curry dishes that you can make as well. Why? Because turmeric helps with brain power, plus it's anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant. I really love adding a dash of turmeric to my quinoa salads or lentil soups. It's GREAT!
Ginger
This fall spice has that great kind of zingy flavor, but the REAL reason that you always need to have some of it around is that it has really impressive anti-inflammatory benefits. It's also great if you're feeling nauseous and has historically been used to treat morning sickness. I try to add a bit of minced ginger to veggie dishes or just throw a dash into my favorite stews.
