What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Basil?
Basil is a nutrient-rich food, especially beneficial for children, the elderly, and menopausal women. This herb contains an array of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B1, and B2, which promote eye health, boost immunity, and maintain healthy skin.
Additionally, basil provides calcium and iron, supporting strong bones, preventing anemia, and maintaining cardiovascular health. The protein content in basil aids in muscle building and recovery, making it ideal for overall growth and development.
With its abundant nutritional value, basil is an ideal choice to incorporate into daily meals. It can be enjoyed fresh in salads, sandwiched between bread slices, or cooked in soups and hot pots. Including basil in your diet not only adds variety to your palate but also ensures a steady supply of essential nutrients, contributing to long-term health.
The Health Benefits of Basil
Basil is not just a tasty herb but also boasts numerous health advantages. Here are some of the most notable benefits of including basil in your diet:
Cooling and Weight Loss Properties: Basil has a cooling effect and is excellent for beating the summer heat. With approximately 15 calories per 100 grams, basil is a perfect choice for dieting and weight management, helping maintain a healthy figure without worrying about calorie intake.
Eye Health and Degeneration Prevention: Basil contains zeaxanthin, an antioxidant that improves vision and prevents age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. The flavonoids present in basil also aid in lung and oral cancer prevention.
Skin and Eye Nutrition: Rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene, basil supports healthy skin and protects the eyes from environmental damage.
Reproductive Health: Folate and vitamin C in basil promote fetal health, boost immunity, and prevent infections, making it ideal for pregnant women.
Bone and Joint Health: The vitamin K content in basil enhances calcium absorption, improving bone health and preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
How to Cook Basil Pork Soup
Ingredients:
500g basil
200g minced pork
2 tomatoes
Scallions, cooking oil, salt, and seasoning powder (or broth mix)
Instructions:
Preparation: Marinate the minced pork with 1 tablespoon of seasoning powder for about 15 minutes. Separate the basil stems, discarding any wilted leaves, and rinse thoroughly. Soak the basil in a mild salt water solution for 10-15 minutes. Cut the tomatoes into wedges. Finely chop the scallions, saving the white parts for sautéing.
Cooking: Sauté the white parts of the scallions in hot oil until fragrant. Add the marinated minced pork and cook until it changes color. Season with salt and add the tomato wedges, stirring until they soften. Pour in water and bring it to a boil, adjusting the seasoning to taste. When the water boils, add the basil and gently toss until it wilts. You can add a bit of seasoning powder to taste.
