Functional Foods

Yes it's true, not all foods are created equal. Recent studies have identified certain fruits, vegetables and seafood to be "functional or super foods" because they are loaded with more vitamins and nutrients when compared to other foods. Research shows that incorporating these powerhouses into your daily diet may help protect your heart, vision and memory, and may even lower the risk of certain cancers.

Kikkoman's full line of convenient sauces adds depth of flavor to these "functional foods," and our extensive recipe database provides hundreds of creative ways to incorporate these ingredients into your diet. So stock up on the following healthful foods the next time you're at the grocery store, and visit our Web site to find delicious recipes and cooking tips.

AVOCADOS

Nutrient-dense avocados contain vitamins A and E, which are great for your hair and skin. For best quality, look for avocados that are unblemished and heavy for their size. Ripe avocados should yield to gentle pressure when squeezed. It's also helpful to note that this fruit continues to ripen off the tree. Instead of salt, add Kikkoman Soy Sauce to your favorite guacamole or avocado dip. Naturally brewed soy sauce intensifies the richness of the avocado while livening the flavors of the dip's other ingredients.

STRAWBERRIES

A vital source of vitamin C and antioxidants, this delicious fruit has been linked to lowering the risk of heart disease and cancer, and may help improve memory. Select plump berries that are brightly colored, uniform in size and have their green caps attached.

BROCCOLI

Containing cancer-fighting nutrients, which include beta-carotene and vitamin C, broccoli is available year-round with a peak season of October through April. Purchase broccoli that is deep green in color, with buds that are tightly closed. For a simple side dish, stir-fry broccoli and add a splash or two of Kikkoman Gourmet Teriyaki Quick & Easy Marinade. The marinade adds the perfect, savory flavor in just one, easy ingredient!

CARROTS

High in beta-carotene and vitamin A, carrots are excellent for your eyes and have been shown to protect against strokes. When purchasing, choose carrots that are firm and smooth, and avoid those with cracks or that have begun to soften or wither. Combine carrots with other vegetables, such as snow peas and onions, to create a vegetable stir-fry. Flavor the mix with Kikkoman Stir-Fry Sauce, a blend of Kikkoman Soy Sauce, sherry, garlic, oyster sauce and Asian seasonings.

GARLIC

Thought to cure toothaches and ward off evil spirits, some studies suggest that garlic may also lower cholesterol levels. Purchase bulbs that are firm with dry skins. For best flavor, crush, chop, press or pur? garlic to release its natural oils and provide optimum zing to your dishes. We have more than 200 recipes that call for garlic, including many featuring our Kikkoman Roasted Garlic Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce and Kikkoman Roasted Garlic & Herbs Quick & Easy Marinade.

SALMON

The omega-3 oils found in salmon are believed to fight heart disease. Salmon also contains potassium, calcium and vitamin B. Fresh salmon is sold whole, in fillets or steaks. When shopping for whole salmon, look for fish with clear eyes, flesh that springs back to the touch (should not be mushy) and smells like seawater (not fishy). For a quick, satisfying dinner, marinate salmon fillets in Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce, then broil. Marinating the salmon this way adds a subtle, sweet flavor that mellows the strong flavors common of this fish.

SPINACH

This leafy green contains vitamins A and C, folic acid and magnesium, which may help control cancer, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke and may help prevent osteoporosis. Look for leaves that are dark green and crisp, and avoid when they are limp, damaged or discolored. For a delicious salad idea, combine spinach, feta, tomatoes and black olives. Drizzle on a garlic vinaigrette, made with white wine vinegar, Kikkoman Less Sodium Soy Sauce, olive oil, minced garlic and sugar, to perk up those greens.

Here are just a few examples of the delicious recipes that incorporate "functional foods" in our recipe database:

Spring Steak & Spinach Salad:

Beef steak is marinated in a blend of Kikkoman Less Sodium Soy Sauce, red wine vinegar, garlic and pepper. The soy sauce and vinegar act as flavoring agents, making the steak mouth-watering and delicious. Once cooked, the steak is tossed with fresh spinach, mushrooms and oranges. Spring never tasted so good!

Sesame Fish in Parchment:

Charm your family by presenting this dish en papillote - a French cooking technique where food (usually fish) is wrapped in parchment paper and baked. As the food cooks and lets off steam, the parchment paper puffs up and expands. Sesame Fish in Parchment is dressed in Kikkoman Less Sodium Soy Sauce, fragrant lemon zest, sesame oil and cilantro, creating a pleasing dish for both the eyes and palate.

Hot & Sour Broccoli Beef:

Easy to prepare and good for you too, make this restaurant favorite at home. Boneless beef steak is combined with Kikkoman Soy Sauce, garlic and sugar, and then stir-fried with broccoli and onions. A touch of red pepper and vinegar makes this dish both spicy and tangy.

To find more fantastic recipes to prepare using your favorite "functional foods," search our recipe database by menu category, sauce type or preparation method.