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GOODNESS
Cinnamon: Cinnamon comes from the bark of a tropical evergreen, just like its cousin cassia. It has an ancient pedigree, even being used to embalm a few pharaohs. That may not sound appetizing, but it has been found to be good for the heart, the stomach and the joints. Not impressed yet? Well consider that it also seems to mimic insulin and therefore helps diabetics moderate their sugar levels. So don't be shy with this tasty and healthy spice.
Coriander: Coriander is used in both sweet and savory cooking, adding a mix of lemon and sage-like flavors to any dish. In addition to its culinary flair, coriander has been considered to be an aphrodisiac by the ancients. Whether or not you will find love, coriander seeds add a sweet, fruity note a recipe and are thought to be good for both your mental powers and your digestion.
Ginger: This spicy root is known as the universal remedy. Although it's well-known as a stomach soother, it also improves circulation, fights tumors, reduces inflammation and boosts the immune system. Oh, and it's good for pain and a fever. The only possible drawbacks are for people with gallstones or those on blood thinners.
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Recipe

Cold Sesame Noodles

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 295

ingredients

  • 1 cup light soy sauce
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup black Chinese vinegar or balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup unseasoned rice vinegar
  • 1/2 cup Shaoxing wine (Chinese rice wine) or dry Sherry
  • 1 cup (packed) fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons coriander seeds
  • 1/2 red Thai chile or red jalapeno chile
  • Noodles and garnishes:
  • 4 coils bean or rice thread noodles (saifun), from 2 5- 3/4 cup packages
  • 1 quart mung bean sprouts
  • Peanut-Sesame Sauce:
  • 1 large Fuji apple, quartered, cored, cut into matchstick-size strips
  • 1 cucumber, peeled, quartered lengthwise, seeded, cut into matchstick-size strips
  • 5 green onions, chopped
  • 1/3 cup chopped crystallized ginger
  • Thin apple slices, roasted salted peanuts, toasted sesame seeds

directions

broth:

Bring first 5 ingredients to boil in medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Mix in cilantro, cinnamon, coriander, and chile. Remove from heat, steep 45 minutes. Strain into bowl. The broth can be made 1 day ahead. Chill. Bring to room temperature before using.

noodles and garnishes:

Place noodles in large bowl. Add boiling water to cover. Let stand until noodles are soft, separating occasionally, about 10 minutes. Drain, return noodles to bowl. Noodles can be prepared 4 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Before using, cover with warm water, drain well.

Pour 1/4 cup broth into each of 6 shallow bowls. Top with sprouts, noodles, Peanut-Sesame Sauce, apple, cucumber, green onions, and ginger. Garnish with apples, peanuts, and sesame seeds.