Netflix is at it again! This time the OTT mammoth has released a titillating dark thriller comedy titled ‘Killer Soup,’ starring the talented Konkana Sen Sharma and Manoj Vajpayee. The name of the series is derived from Konkana Sen Sharma’s character and her obsession with her aspiration to be a chef and own a restaurant of her own. Her signature dish is none other than Paya soup, a traditional South Asian soup, common in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, and is made by slowly cooking the leg piece of goat or lamb.
The series opens up with Sharma’s character engaged in a tenaciously meticulous process of cooking the Paya soup which incorporates various spices, onion, tomatoes, and garlic into the leg broth. While ‘Killer Soup,’ has been making headlines for its creative storytelling, showcase of immense talent, and nail-biting suspense, health-conscious people like us are bound to get curious about Paya soup, which is mentioned time and again in the series.
To learn about the health benefits of Paya soup, the team of OnlyMyHealth spoke to Pooja Shah Bhave, Consultant Clinical Dietician and Diabetes Educator. She commented, “Slow cooking enhances the release of collagen which gives a nice smooth broth, a signature quality of paya soup.” She listed the following qualities of Paya soup that can boost your health and well-being.
Powerhouse Of Nutrients
Proteins such as collagen and gelatin are released in the soup. The broth is also rich in minerals like potassium, iron, zinc, selenium, calcium and phosphorous and mainly fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A and K to a smaller extent. Being rich in iron; it maintains hemoglobin which is essential to supply oxygen to all cells. The soup is also a good source of Vitamin B12.
Joint Health
Collagen is found in connective tissues and collagen released from soup can provide collagen for healthy joints and may reduce joint pain. According to a study published in MDPI’s journal ‘Nutrients,’ collagen has the potential to provide pain relief and improve joint function in people with osteoarthritis.
Protein Rich
Paya being made from meat which is an animal protein is a rich source of good quality protein. According to a study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, a high-quality protein contains all nine essential amino acids.
Improved Digestion
Broth from paya soup is strained and can be given to children or adults who have diarrhoea, as it provides energy and minerals, and may also help in binding stools. Remember to skip spices and vegetables like onion, garlic and tomatoes, if the soup is made for patients having diarrhoea. Additionally, you should remove mutton pieces also after cooking the broth for people with diarrhoea.
Apart from diarrhoea, gelatin present in it helps to reduce inflammation of the stomach and intestinal lining and maintain or improve its functioning.
Also Read: Mutton Vs Chicken: What is Best for Muscle Building
Hydration
Paya soup not only helps to provide lots of fluids but also electrolyte-rich minerals which help balance fluid and electrolytes in the body and prevent dehydration.
Immunity
Nutrients like zinc, iron and selenium from the soup can enhance the working of the immune system. These vitamins and minerals also work as antioxidants that help to fight diseases like cancer, heart disease and complications of diabetes. It can also delay ageing and prevent cataracts and is good for eye health. Also, onions, garlic, tomatoes and spices provide additional antioxidants like lycopene, quercetin and alicin.
Skin Health
Collagen released from the soup helps maintain the integrity of the skin. According to a study published in the MDPI’s journal ‘Neutraceuticals,’ antioxidants help delay the development of wrinkles and loosening of the skin, helping to postpone signs of ageing.
Satiety
Paya soup makes you feel full for longer and hence you will not feel hungry for the next two to three hours after consuming this soup. By fulfilling your appetite, Paya soup can help you avoid overeating and hence help you manage your weight and unhealthy eating habits.
Low GI Food
The soup is low in carbohydrates. The protein from the meat, fibre from the vegetables and the fats present will additionally reduce its glycemic index, which is the blood glucose spike after having the soup. Thus this soup is good for diabetic patients and people who want to lose weight. The glycemic index of the soup is low if taken separately as a mid-meal or as a single dish for dinner. But if you add rice or Naan to this, the blood glucose spike will be higher.
Also Read: Winter Wellness: Expert Lists Nutritious Soups That Can Help You Stay Warm And Healthy
Netflix’s new series ‘Killer Soup’ has opened the gateway for the audience to discover this delicious and nutrient-packed soup which is an entire meal in and of itself. You can easily find numerous recipes online to make Paya soup at home. Just select the one that seems doable, experiment with the recipe, and add Paya soup to your regular diet to boost your dietary lifestyle and well-being.