When it’s cold, nothing soothes the soul and brightens the spirit like a hot, spicy meal. And it turns out that the mood boost brought on by these tasty dishes may not be imaginable. In a new review of five studiesDepressed people who took 30 milligrams (mg) of saffron, a slightly bitter and flavorful spice commonly used in Persian cuisines, daily for six to eight weeks experienced the same improvement in their symptoms as those taking antidepressants like Prozac.
And even though the study volunteers took spice supplements, you can also cook with real spices. Saffron can be expensive (a gram can cost more than $10, although the price varies), but as you’ll see in these eight healthy and easy recipes, a little goes a long way. (Be sure to add these best mood-boosting foods to your diet, too.)
A simple name for a simple dish. But there’s nothing else in the flavors of this comforting winter stew, which features a comforting blend of saffron, cumin, and paprika. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, to boot.
Spicy Persian pasta with saffron and split peas
This dish proves that vegetarian meals can be just as filling as their meat-based cousins. A bowl of this pasta will warm your soul and stick to your ribs.
Carrot soup with saffron and ginger
Ginger and carrots are a classic pairing. The saffron adds depth and just a touch of bitterness, taking this soup from good to exceptional. (If you love this meal, try these 6 tasty recipes featuring ginger.)
Lamb and feta burger with yogurt and saffron sauce
Of course, the lamb burger is delicious, but the real star of the show is the saffron yogurt sauce, which would also pair really well with vegetables (like eggplant).
Roast Chicken with Saffron and Meyer Lemon
Roasting a whole chicken saves you money and results in tastier meat than cooking pre-cut breasts. And this spicy, lemony version is no exception.
The name of the dish is intimidating, but its preparation doesn’t need to be. Simply prepare your saffron broth, add the fish of your choice and enjoy!
Almond, saffron, peach and plum cake
Just looking at this bright yellow cake, sprinkled with plums and ground almonds, will put you in a good mood. But you won’t be able to resist the urge to dig either.
Olive Oil and Saffron Ice Cream with Burnt Orange and Caramel Swirl
I mean, we think the name is enough incentive to try it. With a salty-sweet flavor and super creamy texture, you may want to make a double batch. (Please note: the recipe requires an ice cream maker.)
