Turmeric & Basil Fish Head Soup

Why people make this soup

One of the folk theories about why India — a country with notoriously varied hygiene conditions — reportedly showed lower community infection rates during certain outbreaks is the role of curry. Indian curries are built from a complex arsenal of spices: cloves, cinnamon, fennel, garlic, cumin, and, crucially, turmeric. Turmeric’s active compound curcumin has been the subject of extensive modern research for its powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It can slow bacterial growth and, along with garlic and other curry spices, is said to inhibit a large proportion of meat-borne bacteria. Inspired by this, Nourilo put together a soup combining fresh turmeric with basil and a meaty fish head — the result is aromatic, savoury, and warming. It is traditionally recommended for migraines, cold-related headaches, nasal congestion, and indigestion, while also supporting the body’s immune defences.