GOODNESS
Carrots: We all know that carrots are good for your eyes, but did you know they have anti-cancer properties as well? They have the nicely named carotenoids that are antioxidents -- chemicals that mop up the damage that results from ordinary metabolism. That, in turn, helps to keep your cells from turning rogue and hanging with the cancer gangs. If that's not enough to make you grab a carrot, they turn out to be immune-system stimulators as well, meaning you'll have fewer occasions to ask "What's up, doc?" Yes there's a little sugar in them, but also a lot of fiber to buffer it, so only the most sugar-restricted people should worry. By the way, the vitamin K in carrots is easier to absorb if you eat them with a bit of oil or fat, like a dip.

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.

Mustard seed: Mustard is the seed of a type of brassica, making it a cousin to broccoli and cabbage. As such it loaded with powerful cancer fighters. We're not talking about the yellow American stuff that you find in ballparks (not always top quality), but the hearty seeds in your spice rack or what you might find in a quality condiment. The quality seeds are good for both your liver and your circulation.
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Recipe

Indian Spiced Carrot Soup with Ginger

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 35

ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon yellow mustard seeds
  • 3 tablespoons peanut oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon curry powder (preferably Madras)
  • 1 tablespoon minced peeled ginger
  • 2 cups chopped onions
  • 1 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled, thinly sliced into rounds (about 1 quart)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons finely grated lime peel
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
  • Plain yogurt (for garnish)

directions

Grind coriander and mustard seeds in spice mill to fine powder. Heat oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground seeds and curry powder, stir 1 minute. Add ginger, stir 1 minute. Add next 3 ingredients. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, sauté, until onions begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add 1 1/4 quarts broth, bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, simmer uncovered until carrots are tender, about 30 minutes. Cool slightly. Working in batches, puree in blender until smooth. Return soup to pot. Add more broth by 1/4 cupfuls if too thick. Stir in lime juice, season with salt and pepper. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Cool slightly. Chill uncovered until cold, then cover and keep chilled. Rewarm before serving.

Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with yogurt and serve.