If you're a fan of spicy foods, you'll love hot curry paste. This flavorful paste is a staple in many curry-based dishes and can be used to add a kick of spice to your favorite recipes. Two tablespoons of hot curry paste contain about 110 calories.
In addition to its spicy flavor, hot curry paste also contains a variety of healthy ingredients. Most hot curry pastes are made with a combination of spices, including turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. These spices are all known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of hot curry paste, different ways to use it, and tips for making your own at home.
Calories in 2 tbsp of Hot Curry Paste
Two tablespoons of hot curry paste contain approximately 110 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific brand and ingredients used in the paste. While hot curry paste does contain some calories, it can be a healthy addition to your diet when used in moderation. The paste is typically used in small amounts and can add a lot of flavor to a dish without adding too many calories.
Hot Curry Paste Ingredients
Hot curry paste is typically made with a variety of spices and other ingredients. Some common ingredients found in hot curry paste include: - Chili powder
- Turmeric
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Onion
- Mustard seeds The exact ingredients in hot curry paste can vary depending on the brand and recipe used. Some hot curry pastes may also contain additional ingredients like tomato paste, coconut milk, or vinegar.
Hot Curry Paste Health Benefits
Hot curry paste can provide a range of health benefits thanks to its many nutritious ingredients. Some potential health benefits of hot curry paste include: - Anti-inflammatory effects
- Antioxidant properties
- Improved digestion
- Weight loss aid The spices in hot curry paste have been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce inflammation in the body. These spices are also packed with antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals. Additionally, some of the ingredients in hot curry paste, like ginger and garlic, have been shown to aid in digestion and improve overall gut health. Finally, hot curry paste may be a useful aid for those looking to lose weight, as it can help boost metabolism and promote feelings of fullness.
Ways to Use Hot Curry Paste
There are countless ways to use hot curry paste in your cooking. Here are a few ideas to get you started: - Use as a marinade for chicken or fish
- Add to stir-fries or soups for an extra kick of flavor
- Mix with coconut milk for a delicious curry sauce
- Use as a dipping sauce for vegetables or naan bread Hot curry paste can be used in both Indian and non-Indian dishes to add flavor and spice. Experiment with different recipes to find your favorite ways to use this versatile ingredient.
Hot Curry Paste vs Other Curry Sauces
While there are many different types of curry sauces, hot curry paste offers a unique flavor profile that can't be found in other varieties. Compared to milder curry sauces, hot curry paste has a much stronger kick of spice that can be adjusted according to personal taste. Additionally, hot curry paste is often more versatile than other curry sauces, as it can be used in marinades, dips, and as a base for a variety of different curries.
Hot Curry Paste and Weight Loss
While it's not a magic weight loss solution, hot curry paste may be a helpful aid for those looking to shed a few extra pounds. The spices in hot curry paste have been shown to boost metabolism and promote feelings of fullness, which can make it easier to stick to a lower-calorie diet. Additionally, using hot curry paste in your cooking can add a lot of flavor to your meals without adding many extra calories.
How to Make Hot Curry Paste at Home
If you're feeling ambitious, you can try making your own hot curry paste at home. Here's a simple recipe to get you started: - 2 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 10 dried red chilies, soaked in hot water
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 tbsp tamarind paste
- Salt, to taste 1. Toast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and mustard seeds in a dry pan until fragrant.
2. Grind the toasted seeds into a fine powder.
3. Drain the soaked chilies and roughly chop.
4. Combine the ground spices, chilies, ginger, garlic, tamarind paste, and salt in a food processor and blend to a smooth paste.
Hot Curry Paste Serving Suggestions
Hot curry paste can be used in a variety of different dishes, both Indian and non-Indian. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started: - Use as a marinade for grilled or baked chicken.
- Mix with coconut milk and vegetables for a delicious curry.
- Add to soups or stews for an extra kick of spice.
- Use as a dipping sauce for vegetables, naan bread, or grilled meat.
Hot Curry Paste Dietary Restrictions
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, be sure to check the label of the hot curry paste you're buying. Some hot curry pastes may contain ingredients like gluten, dairy, or soy that could trigger allergies or intolerances.
Hot Curry Paste Brands to Try
There are many different brands of hot curry paste available on the market. Some popular brands to try include: - Patak's
- Thai Kitchen
- Sharwood's
- Madras Curry Be sure to read reviews and try different brands to find the one that best suits your taste preferences.
Hot curry paste can be a healthy addition to your diet when used in moderation. The paste is typically used in small amounts and can add a lot of flavor to a dish without adding too many calories.
FAQs About Hot Curry Paste
1. What is Hot Curry Paste?
Hot Curry Paste is a spicy blend of ground spices, herbs, and peppers used in preparing hot and spicy curries. It is a common ingredient in Indian, Thai, and other Asian cuisines.
2. How many calories does 2 tbsp of Hot Curry Paste contain?
2 tbsp of Hot Curry Paste contains around 110 calories. This may vary slightly depending on the brand and ingredients used.
3. Is Hot Curry Paste healthy?
Hot Curry Paste has some health benefits as it is made using a combination of herbs and spices that are known for their medicinal properties. However, it is high in sodium and may contain added sugars and preservatives, so it should be consumed in moderation.
4. How can you use Hot Curry Paste?
Hot Curry Paste can be used in a variety of ways, such as a base for curries, as a marinade for meats or vegetables, or as a condiment for sandwiches and burgers.
5. Does the spiciness of Hot Curry Paste vary?
The spiciness of Hot Curry Paste may vary depending on the brand, the type of peppers used, and the amount of spice added. Some brands may label their curry paste as mild, medium or hot to indicate the level of spiciness.