Classic and aromatic cooking means better nutrition even with less food

“Let your food be your medicine” is ancient good advice that is getting a fresh listen. With the high price of food, who can afford to eat junk?! We need to make every bite count with maximum nutrition. Both classic European cooking and aromatic Indian cooking do the job with style.

Food has not always been plentiful. Many of the old-fashioned food preparation methods were survival strategies. Classic culinary practices like making sauerkraut and adding a dash of vinegar to cooked greens were actually techniques to maximize available nutrients. The added flavor was a bonus.

I was taking an herb class a few winters back. The nutrition text for the class was a most interesting book that is as much great cookbook as detailed nutritional education. “Nourishing Traditions” by Sally Fallon is becoming my most-used cookbook.

Fallon explains the years of history and science behind classic cooking methods, and then translates everything for the modern kitchen. These time-tested cooking traditions are helping my husband and me improve our nutrition while reducing the grocery bill. We feel very lucky to live in an agricultural area where we produce some of our own food and buy some from our neighbors. It is especially satisfying to know we are getting the maximum nutrition from food that is grown or raised in our area.

Classic cooking methods do take time. After years of long work hours with too many rushed meals, I am again relishing spending an afternoon in the kitchen as the flavors and aromas build. This actually saves me time and a lot of money. I make enough food for several days, and I always have a healthy lunch ready to take to work.

An Indian diet in the Ayurvedic tradition virtually insures good digestion and maximum benefits from nutrients. The famous aromatic herbs we associate with Indian cooking normalize the digestive system and help the body cleanse itself on a day to day basis.

Flavorful herbs increase the satisfaction we derive from food. Have you ever noticed how fast you feel full eating very aromatic or spicy food? This happens because the sense of smell, which helps to regulate appetite, is being satisfied along with the sense of taste. The skillful use of spices makes smaller portions more filling.

Classic and aromatic cooking methods bring out the best in even the most common and simple foods. Eating less does not mean eating poorly. In fact, it may mean eating even better.