The seeds of the ajwain plant are what are known as ajwain sprouts. These are little green sprouts with a hint of bitterness and lots of flavour. The fragrant and digesting qualities of ajwain sprouts make them a popular ingredient in Indian cooking. Ajwain sprouts can be a nutritious and flavourful addition to salads, sandwiches, and various other dishes.
Let’s take a look how they can be a beneficial inclusion:
1. Nutrient-Rich: Ajwain (carom seeds) sprouts are a great source of minerals (calcium, iron, and potassium), vitamins (A, C, and E), and dietary fibre. They can increase the nutritious content of your diet and promote general health and wellbeing when added to your meals.
2. Flavour Enhancement: The flavour of ajwain sprouts is distinct; they have a strong, somewhat bitter flavour with hints of oregano and thyme. They can add a distinct and fragrant flavour to salads, sandwiches, or wraps, improving the overall flavour of your food.
3. Digestive Health: The digestive benefits of ajwain are well-known. Ajwain seeds become easier to digest after germination, which can help with indigestion, gas, and bloating. Including ajwain sprouts in your meals can help to improve gut health and digestion.
4. Low Calorie: Packed with nutrients, ajwain sprouts are low in calories and an excellent add to meals for people limiting their calorie consumption. They can provide texture to salads and sandwiches without adding a lot of calories, which makes them appropriate for diets intended for controlling weight.
5. Texture & Crunch: The crunchy texture of sprouted ajwain seeds can create a delicious contrast with soft components in salads or sandwiches. This texture variation not only enhances the eating experience but also provides a satisfying mouthfeel.
6. Easy to Grow: Ajwain seed sprouting at home is a simple procedure that needs very little equipment or work. When you sprout your own seeds instead of purchasing pre-sprouted ones, you can assure freshness and quality while also saving money.
7. Adaptable: There are several culinary uses for ajwain sprouts. Apart from salads and sandwiches, they can be added to soups, stews, stir-fries, and even baked goods like bread or muffins. Their adaptability makes it possible to explore in the kitchen with creativity.
Adding ajwain sprouts to your food not only boosts its nutritious content but also offers distinct flavours and textures that improve your cooking. Try a variety of recipes and cuisines to take advantage of the nutritional benefits of including these sprouts in your diet.