A Timeless Healer in Every Clove:
Garlic, with its bold aroma and rich flavor, has long been one of our most cherished allies in the V-Giyan™ kitchen and in our wellness routine. Just like many of you, I’ve been drawn to garlic’s pungent scent since childhood. Whether it’s the soft crackle of garlic sizzling in oil or the sharp, almost medicinal aroma that fills the air when it’s freshly chopped, garlic never fails to remind me of the deep wisdom of ancient healing practices.
In Punjab garlic is a staple ingredient, deeply entwined with the flavours of our dishes and foundation of our health. From warding off winter colds to supporting our cardiovascular health, garlic is always on hand. It’s an essential element of our daily cooking rituals—added to everything from curries and soups to marinades, sauces, and even the occasional roasted vegetable.
When the colder months roll in, I make sure to have garlic as part of our diet. It’s our go-to remedy when I feel that familiar scratchy throat or the beginnings of congestion. The warmth and potent properties of garlic are incredibly soothing, and I find that incorporating it into our meals or enjoying it raw—often with a touch of honey or olive oil—helps bolster our immune system, easing any discomforts that arise.
For years, garlic has been an integral part of our approach to digestion. It’s well-known for its ability to support gut health by stimulating the digestive process and acting as a natural antibacterial and antifungal. Whether I’ve indulged in a heavy meal or simply want to boost our metabolism, garlic is a trusted friend to calm our digestive system, prevent bloating, and assist with detoxification.
Garlic also works wonders for circulation. The natural compounds within garlic, such as allicin, have long been revered for their heart-healthy benefits. As someone who strives for holistic health, garlic is an essential part of our wellness toolkit, offering a natural approach to maintaining blood pressure and overall cardiovascular vitality.
When it comes to fighting off illness, I prefer the natural route, and garlic often comes to the rescue. Its antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, making it an indispensable tool in our arsenal against colds, flu, and infections. I remember, as a child, our grandmother would add crushed garlic to hot water with a spoonful of honey, and I’d sip this magical concoction to ward off seasonal sickness.
If you’re looking for ways to incorporate garlic into your life, you’re in luck—it’s as versatile as it is powerful. I enjoy adding it to stir-fries, soups, pasta sauces, or even just roasting whole cloves in the oven for a sweet, caramelized treat. In our kitchen, it always finds a way into our curry base, along with ginger and onions—creating a perfect trifecta of flavor and health benefits.
At V-Giyan™, garlic is an integral part of our culinary foundation. It forms part of our tadka, or tempering process, where it’s gently sautéed with other spices to create layers of flavor in each dish. It’s the heart and soul of our Punjabi recipes, lending its warming, pungent presence to everything from daals, curries and sabzis.
Recipe for a Simple Garlic Honey Tonic
Ingredients:
• 3-4 fresh garlic cloves (peeled and crushed)
• 1 tablespoon of raw honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 cup of hot water
• Juice of ½ a lemon
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for an extra boost)
Instructions:
Crush the garlic: Peel and crush the garlic cloves using a garlic press or simply with the side of a knife. Crushing helps release the beneficial compounds.
Prepare the tonic: Place the crushed garlic into a mug and pour over the hot water. Let it steep for a few minutes to allow the garlic’s beneficial compounds to infuse.
Add honey and lemon: Stir in the honey for sweetness, followed by the fresh lemon juice. This adds a bright flavor that complements the garlic.
Optional spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want a touch of heat to help with circulation.
Enjoy: Sip this tonic throughout the day to keep your immune system supported and your body feeling well.
Garlic is more than just an ingredient in the kitchen; it’s a partner in maintaining a healthy body and mind. From boosting your digestion to helping fight illness, it provides countless benefits. By making garlic a regular part of your life, you invite a natural, healing energy into your routine. Whether in food or as a remedy, garlic’s presence will continue to support your well-being for years to come.