Food is more than fuel. Beyond the basics of providing essential carbohydrates, protein, and fat, many fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds can do things like reduce inflammation, lower the risk of disease, and help balance your gut microbiome. Sometimes called functional foods or superfoods, they have high levels of bioactive compounds that may make you feel better, keep you healthier, and even help you live longer. 

You’re likely already enjoying many of these functional foods and their benefits. Here are just a few that we use in our Territory meals.

Kelp 

One of the richest natural sources of iodine, an essential for a healthy thyroid, kelp absorbs many of its nutrients from the ocean. Iodine can help boost energy and brain function, as well as support a healthy nervous system response. Kelp may also aid digestion, treat constipation, support healthy blood vessels, and reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Find kelp noodles in:

• Kelp Pancit with Chicken and Ginger Almond Sauce
• "Liberated" Pesto Kelp Noodle Salad

Mushrooms

Aside from being a good source of fiber and B vitamins, mushrooms have bioactive compounds that have been shown to strengthen the body’s defense system. Mushrooms stimulate antibodies in the saliva, which act as a first line of defense against pathogens. Special fibers in mushrooms, called Beta-glucans, increase the activity of immune cells. They also act as a prebiotic to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which is linked to better immune health.

Find functional mushrooms in:

• Mapo Eggplant and Tofu over Brown Rice
• "Dedicated" Mushroom Carnitas-Style Bowl with Green Goddess Dressing
• Meat and Mushroom Ragout with Rosemary Cauliflower Mash

Mung beans

A popular ingredient in Indian and East Asian kitchens, mung beans are packed with protein, fiber, and many bioactive nutrients that offer several potential health benefits. Mung beans are antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory, as well as anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. These magic beans may also reduce blood pressure and protect against cancer. 

Their many benefits are due to their high vitamin and mineral content. Mung beans are rich in folate and other B Vitamins, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, potassium, and zinc.

Find mung beans in

• Mung Bean Curry with Coconut Sticky Rice
• Tofu Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce

Nutritional Yeast

An inactive strain of yeast that’s sold as flakes or powder, nutritional yeast, sometimes known as nooch, is more than just a delicious topping for your popcorn. It’s high in several B vitamins, including B12, and contains all the essential amino acids. Nutritional yeast can increase energy, support a healthy nervous system, boost the immune system, and promote healthy skin and hair.

Find nutritional yeast in:

• Jackfruit Rendang over Cauliflower Rice
• Hearty Tofu Scramble with Black Beans and Quinoa

Our menus vary by zip code. We pride ourselves on working with chefs across the country for a variety of flavors, delivering within a regional radius for freshness, and having a rotating menu so Territory customers never get bored of our options!. If you see a Territory meal you'd love to try, but don't see it on your weekly menu, email us at [email protected]m so we can share your wishlist with our culinary team. We appreciate your feedback.