5 flavour boosters for your pantry

Flavour doesn’t have to come from sugar or salt – there are plenty of healthier ways to excite taste buds.

Balsamic vinegar

A tablespoon of balsamic vinegar has less than 50kJ (12cal), and some studies show it can help manage blood sugar levels. Toss it through root vegetables before roasting, or combine with olive oil as a DIY salad dressing.

Citrus

Brimming with vitamin C to promote immunity, citrus adds a nutritious and delicious twist to any meal. Divide an orange into segments and toss through a fresh salad, bake fish in a bag with lemon slices or squeeze lime on your stir-fry for a burst of flavour.

Za’atar

This pungent Middle Eastern blend of herbs, spices and sesame seeds can really help transform a savoury dish. As a bonus, the herbs in za’atar add a dose of antioxidants to your meal.

Ginger

Acclaimed for having antioxidant properties and the ability to prevent nausea but, nutrition aside, ginger is plain delicious. Add this bold flavour to a stir-fry or use it with chicken or fish, and you’ll have happy tummies all around the table.

Dukkah

This traditional Egyptian mix is made from nuts, seeds and various spices, so it’s a source of heart healthy fats. Use dukkah as a crunchy coating for chicken or fish or sprinkle it over your poached eggs for breakfast.

Flavours across the globe

Thai
Coriander, chilli, lemongrass, lime

Mexican
Cumin, garlic, chilli powder

Italian
Basil, oregano, olive oil