When you think of a country you may also think of a food or beverage associated with that country.
For instance: think of Italy and pasta comes to mind, think of France and wine and cheese
may be the first images you see and then there’s Morocco?

Think about Morocco and Marrakesh (a city in Morocco) and what comes to mind?
Dozens of markets that sell everything from rugs to fresh meats to spices.

And if you’re ever fortunate enough to visit Morocco (and Marrakesh) make sure to
stock up on the following spices.

a) Turmeric-
In some parts of India, turmeric is used on a daily basis and it may explain the
very low rates of mental decline (Alzheimer’s), but if you’re also concerned about
warding off colds, flu and other respiratory problems start adding to soups, stews
and stir-fries. The golden-hued spice prevents the influenza virus from replicating,
stopping more than 90% of its spread. And turmeric’s most important active compound,
curcumin, helps bolsters your resistance to bacteria, fungi and viruses by as much as
30%. Aim to eat about 1 to 2 tsps. a day. Another tip: Stir 1/2 tsp. into a cup of hot
water, add some lemon juice or a little honey and sip slowly.

b) Paprika-
It’s beautiful color can make any dish look more appetizing, and if you want to make
your appearance more appealing (or youthful) then you should start adding more paprika
to certain dishes. Paprika is made by grinding red and orange peppers into powder,
a special powder that can keep skin youthful and taut. Paprika is also loaded with
sight-saving lutein and zeaxanthin, which lowers cataract risk, and lastly, it contains
capsaicin, a spicy chemical compound shown to help burn fat, improve blood-sugar
levels and relieve inflammation. Use paprika to dress up a pasta sauce, or roasted
potatoes, or sprinkle it on a bowl of air-popped popcorn.

c) Saffron-
This spice is not that well known in the U.S. but if blue moods or persistent sadness
is something you struggle with on a daily basis, reach for some saffron.
The beautiful red threads of the blue-violet crocus flower relieve symptoms of
mild depression as effectively as prescription meds, plus there aren’t any harmful
side effects. Saffron contains two compounds, and these compounds raise levels
of the “happy” hormone serotonin in the same way that Zoloft and Prozac do.
Look for saffron at big supermarkets or online at Amazon.com, and use a few threads
to flavor meat and rice dishes. Or use it on the recipe (Tangine) listed below.
Also helpful: You can also find saffron in a capsule. Talk to your doctor before trying
any type of supplement.

d) Nigella Seeds-
As mentioned earlier, in parts of India, turmeric is the preferred spice, (and may explain
the low rates of mental decline) and in Morocco, nigella seeds are the preferred spice
for age-proofing the brain.
The tiny black seeds, which taste like cumin or oregano, and if memory loss is a
concern start eating it. Nigella seeds keep your mind sharp by increasing levels
of superoxide dismutase, an age-proofing enzyme that fights brain inflammation
and slow cellular aging. Another benefit: The seeds may also help reverse neurological
damage caused by toxins and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Look for the seeds online at Amazon.com or Shop.KhanaPakana.com and toast them
lightly in a pan to release the oils, then grind them or throw them whole into soups and
stir-fries or baked goods, like biscuits and breads.

e) A Chicken Dish From Morocco!
In Morocco, ask for their most famous dish, “Tangine.” It gets its name from the
earthen clay pots traditionally used to make it in. And if you want to make this
dish at home, use a deep frying pan or Dutch oven.
Ingredients:
4 chicken legs or thighs
2 Tbs. of oil
1 tsp. of paprika
1 tsp. of turmeric
pinch of saffron

To make:
Heat up a large frying pan, (medium-high) add the oil and then the chicken.
Cook until slightly brown, add the spices and a cup of water and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 35 to 45 mins. And if you want something
heartier and more filling for the fall or winter months, add a can of tomatoes,
carrots, dried fruits and cannellini or chickpeas. Serve the chicken over brown
rice or couscous and garnish with quartered lemons.

Sources:
* Craig Purdy Owner of the restaurant Tangine in New York
* Journal of Physiology
* Alan J. Steinberg, M.D. in L.A. Calif.
* Journal of Alternative Medicine
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