Author: Disha Chatterjee

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8 Benefits of Saunf or Fennel Seeds

Welcome to the world of Saunf (fennel seeds), a tiny powerhouse that’s more than just a kitchen staple. Let’s dive into the myriad of benefits these little seeds offer, all while keeping it engaging and informative.

1. Digestive Dynamo: Saunf isn’t just a post-meal mouth freshener. Its fiber content and soothing properties are a boon for your digestive system, easing everything from bloating to heartburn.

2. Heart’s Best Friend: Full of potassium and fiber, fennel seeds aren’t just tasty; they’re a heart-healthy choice that helps manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

3. The Weight Loss Ally: Struggling with cravings? A dash of Saunf might be your new best friend. Its fiber-rich profile aids in reducing appetite, making it a go-to for weight watchers.

4. Skin Savior: Radiant skin begins with what you eat, and Saunf is a natural choice for that glow-from-within look, thanks to its antioxidants and vitamins.

5. Cancer Combatant: Fennel seeds have compounds that may help in the fight against certain types of cancer, making them a super spice in your wellness arsenal.

6. Lactation Booster: For new moms, Saunf can be a gentle aid in enhancing milk production, thanks to its natural galactogenic properties.

7. Memory Enhancer: Keep your cognitive gears in top shape with regular consumption of Saunf, which has shown potential in boosting mental acuity.

8. Menopausal Relief: Navigating the tides of menopause? Saunf might just be the natural remedy you need for alleviating some of its symptoms.

9. Bone Builder: With its array of minerals, Saunf supports strong bones, making it an essential addition to your diet for long-term bone health.

10. Caution is Key: While Saunf is a wonder seed, moderation is crucial. Be mindful of potential side effects, especially if you have certain health conditions.

Incorporating Saunf into your diet is simple. From a refreshing Variyali Sharbat to a soothing Fennel Tea, the options are endless. So, next time you see these tiny seeds, remember, they’re not just for flavor – they’re a pocket-sized treasure trove of health benefits!

Remember, a healthy lifestyle is about balance and variety. Saunf is one such ingredient that can bring both to your plate and life. Embrace it and watch the magic unfold! 🌿✨

Top 10 FAQs About Saunf (Fennel Seeds)

  1. What are the main health benefits of saunf? Saunf is known for aiding digestion, improving heart health, aiding in weight loss, enhancing skin health, fighting cancer, boosting lactation, enhancing memory, relieving menopausal symptoms, and supporting bone health.
  2. Can saunf help in weight loss? Yes, saunf can aid in weight loss due to its fiber content, which helps in reducing appetite and increasing satiety.
  3. Is saunf good for heart health? Absolutely. Saunf is rich in potassium and fiber, which help in regulating blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  4. How does saunf improve digestive health? Saunf aids digestion by reducing bloating, easing constipation, and soothing the digestive tract due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
  5. Can saunf be consumed daily? Yes, saunf can be consumed daily in moderate amounts. However, excessive consumption should be avoided.
  6. Are there any side effects of consuming saunf? Saunf is generally safe, but excessive consumption can lead to certain health issues. It’s advised to consume it in moderation.
  7. Can saunf improve skin health? Yes, the antioxidants and vitamins in saunf contribute to healthier skin by fighting off free radicals and reducing inflammation.
  8. Is saunf beneficial during pregnancy and breastfeeding? While saunf can boost lactation, it’s advised to consult a healthcare professional before consuming it during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  9. How can saunf be incorporated into the diet? Saunf can be added to teas, used as a spice in cooking, or consumed as a mouth freshener after meals.
  10. Does saunf have any benefits for bone health? Yes, saunf is rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamins that are essential for maintaining strong bones.

Blog Tags

fennel seeds, digestive health, heart health, weight loss, skin care, cancer prevention, lactation, memory booster, menopausal relief, bone health, natural remedies, healthy eating

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5 reasons Gulkand deserves to be in your daily diet

sun-cooked preserve of Damask rose petals.

Did you know that gulkand acts like a wine! No, not in giving you a buzz, but that like wine, it also gets better as it ages. A favourite among the ancient Indo-Persians, gulkand brings in the aura along with its essence. Used in several gastronomies these days, gulkand also works as a mouth-freshener and is thus consumed with paan. But the most important part about gulkand is that more than a delicacy, it is a natural healer…if consumed properly in the right quantity and with the right ingredient.

To read our detailed and latest post on Gulkand, please Click Here.

So here is a pro tip, to get the best benefit of gulkand, mix a spoon or two with a glass of milk and relish it regularly. Or, if you are in the mood of whipping a glass full of thandai, mix gulkand with cold milk and thandai mix.

Now the question is why would you bother to incorporate the habit of drinking a glass of gulkand mixed milk regularly? Apart from the fact that it tastes delicious, here is why:

  • It acts as a natural coolant: Gulkand when used in desserts, create a lip-smacking flavour that not only soothes your sweet-tooth but also cools your entire system. It helps to cool off the body from the scorching heat during the summers. Thus, gulkand + milk= solution for all heat-related issues such as fatigue, laziness, burning, stomachaches, mouth ulcers, headaches, nose bleeding, sunstroke, redness and inflammation of the eyes, or body pain.
  • A great dose of calcium: Gulkand when mixed with milk, can fulfil your body’s daily calcium quota. This helps treat and make teeth and gums strong and fight women problems like leucorrhea and heavy menses.
  • It acts as a digestive stimulant: This is a great cure for any digestive issue. It improves body metabolism appetite, thus keeping you fit. Also, gulkand, when consumed with milk, reduces acidity, constipation, peptic ulcer, and gastritis, keeping your intestine away from ulcers and swelling.
  • Great stress buster: Gulkand mixed with milk at night is medicine for sound sleep as well. It keeps the heart and nervous system under control, reducing stress.
  • Get a flawless skin: This rose jam when consumed with milk purifies your blood and can bring a rosy glow to your skin by reducing pimples, acne, redness, rash, inflammation, itching and blemishes.

Well, now since you know that gulkand is not just for taste, but also for nutrition, let me also tell you that the best benefits of gulkand can only be derived from a quality product, free of any kind of adulteration. So, at Masala Monk, we have curated this homemade Gulabo to help you get gulkand in its purest form.

To read our detailed and latest post on Gulkand, please Click Here.

An often asked question is – Does Gulkand increase Weight? Well I think with some confidence we can say – No Gulkand does not increase weight, given that you stick to a teaspoon or two a day. If you are having 2 teaspoons a day, you essentially would be consuming 1 Teaspoon of sugar, you can always count in that your Macros and Calorie intake and plan accordingly. We know it is delicious and as tasty tempted as you might be, eating the whole jar at once is highly NOT recommended.

Gulabo ~ Rose Preserve – Homemade Gulkand
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Have you tried this Desi Sauce? It is giving Ketchup Run for its money

Meethi Amchur ki Chutney by Masala Monk

We Indians are known for the different variants of spices we use in our cuisine and we are proud to introduce these delicious aromas to the world. But the secret of using these spices are still locked safe with our naanis and dadis (grandmothers). No matter how far we travel and how many cuisines we explore, the Indian in us wakes up once in a while to crave for that favourite dish made by our mother or grandmother.

And when that hunger for desi food strikes, it strikes hard to make all your taste buds scream at the same time. Deep-fried samosa, kachori, pakoda, or paanipuri is all you can think of. All it takes for you is to make a quick run to grab your favourite bhajji or just shake up the hidden cook in you and fry some pakodas at home.

But wait. What do you generally pair it with? If your answer is ketchup or any random chutney you come across, then let me remind you about that the chutney which has the right amount of spices, saltiness, sweetness and tanginess in it. If the bells are still not ringing, let me tell you, if you are an Indian, you must have had this chutney at least once in your life and had thought that this is the best match for your deep-fried snacks.

Meethi Amchur ki Chutney or Saunth is what we call it, the authentic recipe of which is still kept in Indian homes and is the best accompaniment for any Indian dish, be it paranthas, dahi ke gulgule, mathis, or fried snacks. With such a versatile flavour, this desi sauce can easily knock all other international sauces out of the park. No other chutney can enhance the flavour of Indian food the way Saunth dose.

Being the most chatpata chutney, Meethi Amchur ki Chutney contains several Indian ingredients, but the primary ingredient is dry ginger powder, also called saunth and that’s how it got the name. Apart from holding the nutritional benefits of dry ginger, Saunth is a condiment which can be stored for a long period.

Meethi Amchur ki Chutney or Saunth is what we call it, the authentic recipe of which is still kept in Indian homes and is the best accompaniment for any Indian dish. Amchoor ki meethi chutney is very popular in North Indian households and you might come across it in street-side chaat and pakoda stalls. If your tongue is rolling already, waiting to make that chatkara sound post the first taste of saunth, here is good news for you. Masala Monk is all set to bring this Indian delicacy to your doorstep with our new Nani Maa’s Meethi Saunth. This authentic Meethi Saunth has been whipped up using a recipe straight from Nani Maa’s kitchen and is a must-have for those who love chatpata Indian snacks.

Meethi Amchur ki Chutney
The right amount of spices, saltiness, sweetness and tanginess to spark any meal

Why is Nani Maa’s Meethi Saunth better than any regular ketchup and sauce?

  • Versatile flavour: Be it paranthas, dahi ke gulgule, mathis, or fried snacks. Saunth has a versatile flavour and this desi sauce can easily knock all other international sauces out of the park. No other chutney can enhance the flavour of Indian food the way Saunth dose.
  • Not only delicious, but also healthy: Being the most chatpata chutney, Meethi Amchur ki Chutney contains several Indian ingredients, but the primary ingredient is dry ginger powder, also called saunth and that’s how it got the name. Apart from holding the nutritional benefits of dry ginger, Saunth is a condiment which can be stored for a long period.
  • Elevate the taste of your healthy diet: After bragging a whole lot about the chemistry between this amchoor ki meethi chutney and fried food, it will be an injustice to not tell you the healthier part about this chutney. For all those who believe in a healthy diet, you can mix this to your fruit bowl to assemble a healthy and tasty chaat. Don’t forget to try this with your good old shakarkandi ka chaat as well.
  • Homemade: Nothing tastes better than the taste of homemade food that are made with love and no preservative. Store-bought ketchup and sauces are generally adulterated, make it rather harmful to consume.
Saunth by Masala Monk
Use it for your fruit chaat or as an accompaniment to your favourite Indian dish

So whatever be your go-to evening snack, paanipuri, aaloo tikki chaat, dahi bhalle, papdi chaat, bhel puri, or fruit salad, relish it like a real Indian and take a generous helping from Naani Maa.

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Valentines Special : 5 Gifts for Someone who Loves Good Food

A whole new definition of love in sealed jars of magical sweetness


This Valentine, gift your loved ones and make them feel special by gifting these handcrafted products which are made with premium ingredients and LOVE.

“There is no love sincerer than the love of food.” – George Bernard Shaw.

With love in the air and cupids playing around, we, at Masala Monk, inexorably believe that there’s nothing quite like the goodness of homemade food. The love, the dedication and the honesty that goes into homemade food cannot be replicated. So we bring to you a carefully curated collection of gifts. A collection good to woe your valentine’s and love in style with our ever exotic preserves & spreads with a twist of fruity, citrusy, boozy, salty & chilly flavours. Every jar is made and packed mindfully, fastidiously, with the same care that we give to the food that we cook in our kitchens. You’ve not only received food, but you’ve also received a piece of someone’s heart. Use it well. Bon Appétit!

Masala Monk’s exclusive range of spreads includes Banoffee, Gin Berry, Intensity, Pina Colada, and Sweet Chilli. A range, wide enough to suit every palate! What are you going to choose?

6 Awesome gifts, Ready for Valentines Day!

Valentine Special Spreads

Gin Berry~ Strawberry & Gin Jam

Gin Berry – Strawberry & Gin Jam

Intensity~ Cholcolate & Rhum

Intensity 54% – Chocolate and Rhum Spread

Orange & Whiskey Marmalade

Orange and Whiskey Marmalade

Pinacolada Rum Jamalade

Pina Colada & Rum Jamalade

Banoffee

Banoffee Spread – 380 Gms

SweetChilli

Sweet Chilli Jam {HOT}

Pick the best Love for your Loved ones!

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5 Benefits of Almond Butter on Hair

How often do you come across snacking options that are not only delicious but also healthy?

Well, let’s make it easy for you with just one ingredient – almond. We all are aware of the numerous health benefits of almonds and raise hands all those who consume five almonds regularly and follow it as a ritual. But now, it’s time to make this healthy habit even more scrumptious, while you keep flaunting your lustrous hair.

5 Benefits of Almond Butter on Hair

• It helps stimulate hair growth.
• Reduces hair fall due to breakage.
• Makes hair glossy by maintaining the keratin level.
• It helps treat scalp infections like dandruff and itchy scalp.
• Prevents hair from premature graying.

That’s right. Several studies made in the past have proved that almond butter is the best cure for almost all hair problems. It contains healthy elements such as magnesium, iron, vitamin E, biotin, potassium, zinc, magnesium, omega 3 and 6, fatty acids and is loaded with protein which helps stimulate hair growth.

Almond Butter by Masala Monk
100% natural almond butter

I understand almond butter tastes yum, but you won’t mind sparing a spoonful or two to apply on your scalp in return of healthy hair. As healthy as it is to consume almond butter, you can also massage it on your scalp to penetrate the goodness of almond into your hair follicles and strengthen them. This reduces hair fall due to breakage and makes your hair glossy by maintaining the keratin level.

And if you have dandruff issues, just add a few drops of lime juice to almond butter and apply the mask on the scalp. Almonds have anti-fungal properties that help treat scalp infections like dandruff and itchy scalp by fighting against yeast multiplication.

Moreover, almond butter is the best solution for regenerating and repairing tissues. Also, good news for those who are apprehensive about greying of hair at an early age. Almond butter also contains catalase, a form of antioxidant and copper which helps prevent loss of hair pigments and building up of hydrogen peroxide in the hair follicle.

Take it from the Egyptian Queen, Cleopatra or from Meghan Markle, almond butter (in its purest form) if used and consumed in moderation, can defeat the best of cosmetic brands.

A healthy dessert spread
A quick solution of add a twist to your regular dessert

Note: Almond butter should not be overused as it can lead to greasy skin by developing excess oil. Moreover, only pure almond butter can give you the best result. Mass-produced almond butter available in local markets generally contain additives that are rather harmful. Check out Masala Monk’s 100% Natural Almond Butter to enjoy the goodness of pure almond.

Not only on your head, to know more how this is awesome for the inside of your head Click Here.

http://masalamonk.com/2020/01/20/lick-it-or-munch-it-your-brain-needs-almond