Fenugreek - How To Use
(Also known as Goat's horn, Greek hayseed and Greek clover)
Profile
Part of the Bean family and a relative of the liquorice family. Young fenugreek leaves are a delicious vegetable. They have a similar appearance to pea shoots when not dried and milled to a herb form. Fenugreek translates from Latin into Greek hay. Fenugreek seeds have a sweet and strong taste with a hint of maple syrup and coffee. The leaves are less pungent. Its stuffy baseline isn't to everyone's liking when taken on its own. It typically provides a bittersweet background to many recipes. It is native to the Eastern Mediterranean. Today it is used in Iranian, West Asian, Indian and Sri Lankan dishes, and it is a typical ingredient found in curry powder.
What flavours go with fenugreek leaves?
- Chilli
- Cucumber
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Mint
- Onion
- Tomato
- Turmeric
Common in Persian cuisine Fenugreek leaves add a bitter and earthy flavour to bring a distinctive taste to recipes when paired with some of the above flavours. Advieh Mahi is sublime with simple salmon and Advieh Ash makes delicious warming soup.
Health Benefits - Fenugreek Leaves
Does fenugreek increase breast milk?
Fenugreek is often recommended for women who breastfeed to increase their breast milk supply, where there can be a decrease in milk because of stress or fatigue amongst other well-being reasons. It is also considered to boost hair growth and benefit scalp health. Fenugreek leaf is also considered great for gut health.
Interesting facts
- Does fenugreek make you smell? The solatone in fenugreek can pass through the body and change the smell of your urine or sweat. The scent almost resembles maple syrup.
- Archaeologists have found evidence of fenugreek seeds in Iraq dating back to 4000 BC and further remnants of fenugreek seeds in the 3000-year-old tomb of Tutankhamen. The Egyptians considered fenugreek as a cure or remedy.
- In Roman times, it was such a common plant, that cattle regularly ate fenugreek fodder.
- In the second century AD, there is a record of the Syrians using fenugreek as an ingredient in a ritual perfumed ointment for athletes during the games.
Chief flavour profile
Sotolon: (sweet, maple syrup and caramel) think candyfloss at the funfair. Sweet like brown sugar. This key flavour profile complements other spices such as liquorice, allspice and cinnamon.
Blends to try with Fenugreek Leaves
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Advieh Mahi £8.95
Introducing Advieh Mahi - This ancient Persian spice mix derives from the Achaemenid Empire, 6th-century BC. It is aromatic and flavourful, with highlights of cumin seeds and fenugreek leaves. All natural, low sodium and vegan.
Endless Culinary Adventures - Advieh Mahi (Persian for "fish spice"), is the perfect spice mix for seafood dishes! When mixed with a neutral oil and brushed over fresh fish, this nutritious blend provides a tasty health boost. Why not try for seasoned cod or salmon? Our customers tell us that this is the perfect spice mix for kedgeree, fish pie and even octopus lollipops with tempura batter!
At Cameler Spice Co., we take pride in milling and blending our spices in-house. We do our utmost to use the freshest cooking spices within one year from field to jar. Our main objective is to minimize our supply chain by sourcing ingredients directly from regenerative farms. Indulge in the rich flavours of Advieh Mahi for up to two years, meticulously handwritten on the lid for a personal touch.
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Advieh Ash £8.95
Introducing Advieh Ash - This ancient Persian spice mix derives from the Achaemenid Empire, 6th-century BC. An earthy, nutty blend with rich undertones. Highlights of fenugreek leaves, cumin seeds and nutmeg. All natural, salt-free, and vegan.
Endless Culinary Adventures - Advieh Ash is the ideal accompaniment for soups, lentils, and noodles. Customers also love it in couscous salad, stews and ramen-style dishes. and rice dishes. Just a pinch of this exquisite blend will elevate your soup to the next level.
At Cameler Spice Co., we take pride in milling and blending our spices in-house. We do our utmost to use the freshest cooking spices within one year from field to jar. Our main objective is to minimize our supply chain by sourcing ingredients directly from regenerative farms. Indulge in the rich flavours of Advieh Ash for up to two years, meticulously handwritten on the lid for a personal touch.