Upgrade your salads with these superfoods
What's the story
African superfoods provide a unique way to amp up your salads, both nutrition-wise and flavor-wise. Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these ingredients make an excellent choice for any salad. By adding these superfoods to your meals, you can reap a host of health benefits while tasting something new. Here's how you can use African superfood ingredients to amp up your salads.
#1
Baobab powder for vitamin C boost
Baobab powder, sourced from the fruit of the baobab tree, is packed with vitamin C. Adding it to your salad dressing not only adds a hint of tanginess but also increases your immunity. One tablespoon of baobab powder delivers up to 10% of the daily vitamin C requirement, increasing your nutrient intake without much effort and without altering the taste of your salad much.
#2
Moringa leaves for nutrient density
Moringa leaves are rich in calcium, iron, and protein. They can be added fresh or dried to salads for extra crunch and nutrition. Moringa leaves are known to have more calcium than milk and more iron than spinach, per gram. Adding moringa to your salad not just boosts its nutrition but also gives it a subtle earthy flavor that goes well with other ingredients.
#3
Fonio grains for gluten-free option
An ancient grain from West Africa, fonio makes for an excellent gluten-free alternative in salads. Its light texture and nutty flavor go well with a variety of vegetables and dressings. Plus, fonio is rich in amino acids such as methionine and cysteine, which are otherwise missing in most grains. Adding fonio to your salad gives you a wholesome base and is also gluten-free.
#4
Hibiscus flowers for antioxidant richness
Hibiscus flowers are not only pretty to look at but also packed with antioxidants. Dried hibiscus petals can be sprinkled on greens or infused into dressings to give them the same tart flavor that cranberries or pomegranates would. The antioxidants present in hibiscus help fight oxidative stress in the body, promoting holistic well-being when included regularly in meals.
#5
Tiger nuts for fiber content
Tiger nuts are tiny tubers that provide high fiber content along with healthy fats such as oleic acid, which is commonly found in olive oil too. They have been eaten since ancient times all across Africa, due largely because they're naturally sweet yet low-calorie snack option. Perfect if you're looking to add crunchiness without compromising on dietary goals, either.