Cumin is an aromatic spice commonly used in Latin American, Middle Eastern, North African and Indian cuisine. It has been described as having an earthy, nutty, spicy and warm flavor to it and can be found in dishes such as chili, tamales and some curries.
But did you know that cumin can help you sleep better? Cumin is high in magnesium, a mineral that has been linked to improved quality and duration of sleep. The spice is also believed to help regulate metabolism, reduce sleep disorders and insomnia. For these reasons, there are cumin teas marketed as natural sleep aids.
With natural sleep-promoting properties and science to back it up, it might be worth trying some of these delicious and healthy recipes with cumin that are also great for fall.
Cumin Grilled Chicken
(Editor note: Photo credit to JoyfulHealthyEats.com)
The easy spice rub in this recipe will give you grilled chicken that’s full of flavor and moist in about 20 minutes. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, sea salt, pepper and olive oil. Rub the mixture all over both sides of the chicken and grill. Each side takes about 4-6 minutes depending on the thickness.
Click here for the full recipe.
Curried Butternut Squash Soup
(Editor note: Photo credit to MarthaStewart.com)
Perfect for cooler fall temperatures, this soup is packed with flavor and might be the healthiest thing you make this season. In addition to cumin, the recipe calls for curry powder and fresh ginger — both ingredients having a number of health benefits that may surprise you. Curry powder has turmeric, which is known to reduce inflammation, increase the liver’s ability to remove toxins from the body, and fight some infections. Key benefits of ginger extend to fighting cancer and improving brain function.
Click here for the full recipe.
Cumin roasted root vegetable
(Editor note: Photo credit to CookingontheWeekends.com)
It’s hard to imagine anything more inviting than this side dish that is rich in flavor, color and texture. Coming from under the ground, root vegetables are high in nutrients, and in this recipe the use of spices like cumin and paprika bring out the natural goodness of the carrots, parsnips, and Russet potatoes.
