Are you ready to enjoy a homemade salsa that is every bit as spicy and delicious as it is chunky and smoky? Some people like smooth, pureed salsa, while others prefer the chunky salsas that you make in a molcajete. Is the salsa imperfect? Yes, but it’s also perfectly chunky, smoky, and full of flavor. Not everything that you make has to look like a work of art. Sometimes, foods or dishes that don’t satisfy everyone’s aesthetic appeal taste the best! That’s how we feel about this salsa.

A molcajete, in case you are unaware, is the Spanish word for mortar and pestle. The name comes from the Aztec words that translate to “seasoning” and “bowl.” A traditional molcajete varies slightly from your average mortar and pestle, though. It is made from volcanic rock and the hard, rough surface makes it easier to grind spices or mash different ingredients, for example, the pan-roasted ingredients for this salsa. Just make sure that you don’t add all of the ingredients to the molcajete at once. Start by mashing the onion and garlic, then follow that with the jalapeño.

Once you have a smooth paste of onion, garlic, and jalapeño, you can add the tomatoes, one or two at a time. Don’t overcrowd the molcajete, or you’ll have tomato juices flying all over the place. Add your chopped cilantro, cumin, sea salt, and black pepper and mix to combine. Serve with some sturdy chips that can support the weight of this homemade chunky salsa. It’s got a little kick, but not so much so that it overpowers the rest of the ingredients. If you like a spicier salsa, add two jalapeños!

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We aren’t sure how much you use spice blends, but if you are like most people, chances are you go through them quickly. Maybe you get the crazy idea to try your hand at making your own spice blends for a change! Once you do that and realize the difference in flavor, you may never go back to store bought blends. Such is the case for this homemade chili seasoning, which is free of preservatives and additives.

Chili seasoning is not solely reserved for your favorite batch of chili; rather you can add it to salad dressings or other dishes. You most likely have the spices you need to make this chili seasoning in your spice cabinet or drawer. If ever you need to make more, you can buy more individual spices and create the spice blend. The great thing about that is that you will avoid the harmful ingredients, especially excess amounts of sodium, found in pre-mixed seasonings and packets.

A chili seasoning packet seems convenient, but not in regards to your health. In stores, a pre-mixed packet of chili seasoning can contain anti-caking agents and artificial flavors. In reality, chili seasoning typically consists of five to eight spices. Those spices usually include chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and a few others. You can always customize the ingredients to tailor the flavor to your liking. And as a final note, chili powder is not the same as chili seasoning. That’s that!

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A lime vinaigrette goes great on a lot of Mexican-themed salads or bowls. Whether the base of your entree is a bed of leafy greens or quinoa and black beans, this dressing will wake up the ingredients. By that, we mean that the acidity of the lime juice and pungent nuttiness of the cumin make your bowl or salad come alive. Plus, you can easily whip up a batch of this dressing in a pinch; you just need the ingredients and a jar.

Unfortunately, you cannot rely on your blender to do the majority of the work for you when making this dressing. Well, you can if you want, but the dressing will turn a vibrant green. We prefer the different textures that this lime vinaigrette has, especially when you get some finely diced jalapeño and chopped cilantro in your salad bite. Don’t worry, though, this vinaigrette is far from the spiciest thing you’ll eat. Although there is some spice, the lime juice and maple syrup do a great job to cut the heat. After all, this dressing calls for the juice of three to four limes, so the flavor is quite zesty.

Once you prepare all of the ingredients, add all of them to a jar, seal the lid, and shake well to combine. Make sure to refrigerate for about 15 minutes before using for optimum flavor. Allowing the jalapeño and garlic to sit in the lime concoction helps to cut the spice of the jalapeño and the allium flavor of raw garlic. Just make sure to give the dressing a good shake before you dress your salads or bowls.

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If you love Mediterranean food, then you are going to love this recipe. Spiced to perfection, this cauliflower shawarma bowl shows you that vegan entrees are filling, tasty, and may sway you away from meat-centric options. Serve the roasted cauliflower over rice and with optional sides, such as cucumbers, roasted chickpeas, chopped tomatoes, fresh herbs, and vegan tzatziki.

To get that classic shawarma flavor, you have to mix several spices together. Curry powder, paprika, cumin, and an optional dash of cayenne pepper take this cauliflower to the next level. To get the perfect cook on the cauliflower, roasting is the way to go. Roasting perfectly crisps up the exterior of the florets, while bringing out the veggie’s natural flavor. Plus, roasting cauliflower helps establish two textures: caramelized on the outside and soft on the inside.

Should you so desire, add a can of chickpeas to the cauliflower and roast both of them together in the spice mixture. While the cauliflower is roasting, cook the rice and prepare the vegan tzatziki sauce. The key to a great tzatziki is to grate the cucumber with the skin on and then strain the water out through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve. That step will keep your sauce nice and thick, as opposed to watery. It pairs beautifully with the roasted cauliflower and rice.

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Move over, kale, and step aside, blueberries. Oh, spirulina, you can sit this one out as well. We don’t have anything against these powerful superfoods, but our attention is on a different superstar today: turmeric. This bold, spicy, and vibrantly orange spice exists in everything from expensive lattes to daily supplements. 

Although the addition of turmeric to various foods may seem like a new trend, it has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. There have been many anecdotes about the healing properties of turmeric, but researchers have pinpointed certain health properties more recently. A lot of existing evidence focuses on turmeric’s primary compound, curcumin, because researchers believe it is responsible for turmeric’s many health benefits. If you want to spice up your life, continue reading to learn more about why you should add turmeric to your diet. 

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is a natural immune response, but chronic inflammation can lead to serious health conditions. Some of these health conditions include arthritis, heart disease, certain cancers, and more. One of the most well-known health benefits of turmeric is that it works to reduce inflammation in the body. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, seems to block several inflammatory pathways in the body. According to researchers, this process may help reduce inflammation-related health conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

May Improve Brain Function

Several studies confirm that curcumin may help improve brain function in a number of ways. One study monitored individuals who took a curcumin supplement and they experienced improved memory and attention. A separate study found that people who ate curry on a regular basis had better cognitive function than people who didn’t. Turmeric is a very common ingredient in curry, which explains the study. Turmeric can also increase the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is a growth hormone that plays a role in brain function and the development of new brain cells.

Reduced Risk Of Heart Disease

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally. An average 17.9 million people die from cardiovascular diseases each year. Some studies found that regular consumption of turmeric may reduce the risk of heart disease. Researchers note that curcumin may improve the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of the blood vessels. Additionally, curcumin may lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce the formation of blood clots, all of which contribute to better heart health. 

Potential Anti-Cancer Effects

Many studies show that turmeric exhibits antimicrobial properties that can help fight off infections. Other studies suggest that curcumin may exhibit anti-cancer activity, but more research is necessary in human studies to confirm this. As of now, researchers note that curcumin may inhibit the growth and spread of some cancer cells, and it may also promote the death of cancer cells. Although this is preliminary, turmeric may prevent angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels that contribute to the growth of tumors.

May Improve Digestion 

For centuries, people have used turmeric as a digestive aid in traditional medicine. Studies have shown that turmeric can help improve digestion, reduce bloating and gas, and support overall gut health. Additionally, curcumin may help reduce gut inflammation, which not only improves gut microbiome, but also reduces the risk of gut-related diseases.

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When you find a salad dressing you really like, you want to dress every salad you make in that dressing. The only problem with that is that you can use too much of a good thing. You don’t want to bore your taste buds with the same flavors, which is why we encourage everyone to have a rotating list of dressings they enjoy. If you have five to 10 dressings to choose from, you will never tire of your salads. And this cucumber tahini dressings is one you’ll want to include in your top 10!

Tahini is a great ingredient that adds a subtle nuttiness and a lot of creaminess to a dressing. It is a common ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, but it also makes for an excellent salad dressing ingredient. Just make sure that the tahini is raw if you are cleansing. You shouldn’t see any other ingredient on the list besides sesame seeds. Because this dressing calls for five tablespoons of tahini, you don’t need extra olive oil, or another type of oil for the dressing. The acidity of the freshly squeezed lemon juice pairs beautifully with the nutty tahini flavor. Plus, the cucumbers contain a lot of water, which helps make the dressing a beautiful consistency.

Although tahini is seemingly the star of this salad dressing, the real kicker is the cumin. Cumin is a plant that’s closely related to dill, parsley, and caraway. This spice can add a nutty warmth and peppery flavor to sauces, or dressings in this case. It is commonly paired with citrus or another acidic ingredient because they complement each other. Please let us know if you enjoy this unique dressing by dropping a comment below.

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Genetics, environmental factors, physical activity, lifestyle, and dietary habits all affect how people age. Aging is a natural part of life, but seldom do people want to accept that reality. And although you cannot stop the aging process, you can make dietary and lifestyle changes to slow certain aging processes. Those little efforts can help reduce the risk of age-related diseases, which ultimately supports healthy aging. 

The primary cause of aging, regarding appearance, is accumulated cellular damage caused by free radicals and the shortening of telomeres. Those telomeres are structures that exist at the ends of chromosomes and they plan an integral role in cell division. If you follow a nutrient-dense diet and exercise regularly, you may be able to slow the effects of aging on the body. What’s more, scientists have found certain vitamins, minerals, and flavonoids that also support the body’s metabolic functions to protect against brain fog, illness, and aging. For example, a 2022 review found evidence that suggests dietary polyphenols can protect against many age-related conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, heart disease, and cancer. Continue reading to learn about some of the best anti-aging nutrients that support you as you age. 

CoQ10

You’ve probably seen coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in the supplement sections of several pharmacies. The body naturally produces this antioxidant and it plays a role in energy production and works to protect against cellular damage. A four-year study monitored 443 older adults who supplemented with CoQ10 and selenium. Participants noticed an overall improved quality of life, reduced hospital visits, and slowed mental deterioration. CoQ10 supplements may help to reduce oxidative stress, which can accelerate the aging process. Additionally, these supplements may help reduce stiffness in arteries, lower blood pressure, and prevent the build-up of oxidized cholesterol in the arteries. 

Vitamin D

It’s a fact that most people have low vitamin D levels, but older adults tend to be more deficient than most adults. Older people tend to eat less than younger people, so they don’t consume as many foods containing vitamin D. They also tend to spend less time outside, which reduces their exposure to sunlight. A lack of vitamin D reduces bone density and increases the risk of osteoporosis. Ideally, a multivitamin that contains calcium is beneficial because the body has an easier time absorbing vitamin D alongside calcium. A 2020 meta-analysis found that a supplement containing vitamin D and calcium helped prevent bone fractures in older adults. Specifically, vitamin D3 appeared to help prevent falls. 

Vitamin C

Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body and works to protect cells from oxidative damage. Not only does vitamin C play an active role in enhancing immune function, but it also works to regulate inflammation and protect against age-related conditions. One study monitored 80 adults with an average age of 60. The group that had higher blood levels of vitamin C performed better on tasks involving memory, decision making, and recognition. More evidence suggests that vitamin C is essential for the appearance of healthy skin. Increasing vitamin C intake may be an effective way to help prevent the early development of wrinkles and fine lines. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Effective for managing inflammation and improving heart and brain health, omega-3 fatty acids are naturally rich in anti-inflammatory properties. Both eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), two omega-3s, have helped improve symptoms of type 2 diabetes, eye disease, heart health, and several neurological disorders. Other studies confirm that omega-3s may improve cognitive functions, including attention and processing speed, in people with mild cognitive impairment. Preventing inflammation is especially important as you age. Many age-related conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease, often stem from excess inflammatory levels. 

Curcumin

Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric and it exhibits powerful cellular protective properties. As you age, senescent cells accumulate in the body, and researchers believe that this process accelerates the aging process and disease progression. Several studies demonstrate that curcumin activates certain proteins that work to delay cellular senescence and promote longevity. Additionally, animal studies suggest that curcumin fights against cellular damage and significantly increases life span. EGCG
Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a compound that may protect against age-related disease and promote longevity. It’s a potent polyphenol in green tea and works to restore mitochondrial function in cells, acting on pathways involved with aging. EGCG also induces autophagy, which is the process by which the body eliminates damaged cellular material. Plus, EGCG may protect against aging skin and reduce hyperpigmentation caused by UV rays.

EGCG

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a compound that may protect against age-related disease and promote longevity. It’s a potent polyphenol in green tea and works to restore mitochondrial function in cells, acting on pathways involved with aging. EGCG also induces autophagy, which is the process by which the body eliminates damaged cellular material. Plus, EGCG may protect against aging skin and reduce hyperpigmentation caused by UV rays.

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A super easy and healthy raw carrot hummus offers the fresh, sweet flavor of raw carrot with a touch of creaminess from the tahini. It has a little Middle Eastern flare, with the prominent cumin and garlic flavor. Ramp up the raw vegan factor by enjoying this dip with cucumber or celery sticks. You can use this dip as a filling and roll it up inside lettuce leaves, or even place a dollop or two on your salad. It also goes great with raw sugar snap peas!

You can’t go wrong with hummus. It’s one of those dips that’s so good enough to enjoy with a spoon. You don’t even need the crackers or vegetable sticks for dipping! This hummus, unlike store bought hummuses, is very fresh, light, and free of excess sodium and processed ingredients. For that reason, it doesn’t have as long of a shelf life, so you have to consume it within four to five days of making it. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Because raw carrots are difficult to blend, we advise that you chop them into small pieces before adding them to the food processor. When you pulse them with the other ingredients, the carrots will break down much more easily when chopped up. The entire process, from chopping to blending, should only take you about 10 minutes.

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While warmer temperatures are upon us, we are not out of the cold yet. Cold nights call for comforting beverages that warm the soul. Rather than drinking an entire cup of sugary hot cocoa that comes from a packet, though, make this recipe, which exhibits anti-inflammatory compounds. Chocolate isn’t a bad thing, especially if you enjoy it responsibly. When you enjoy a beverage like this, that contains cacao powder, then you know you are on a healthier path.

Whether you want to be more health-conscious or reduce your sugar intake, this hot cocoa recipe is for you. It isn’t a golden milk latte, nor is it a collagen-infused tea; rather, it contains a blend of traditional spices that may help improve mood, energy levels, and overall health. Most of all, these spices can help lower inflammatory markers in the body, reducing your risk of chronic inflammation. Now, inflammation isn’t always a bad thing. It helps fight and heal infections in the body. Chronic inflammation can lead to a range of health conditions, though, and you can struggle with chronic fatigue, digestive troubles, joint pain, breakouts, and more.

Growing evidence shows that turmeric is one of the best herbs to help reduce inflammation. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce pain, improve symptoms of anxiety, and lower inflammation in the gut. Ginger, cinnamon, cumin, and black pepper, which are also in this hot cocoa recipe, work to fight inflammation in the body as well. Drink to your health, provided you are not on the cleanse, and enjoy this drink on colder evenings.

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Can spices aid in weight loss? Cumin may have more benefits than one!

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