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 Ash $12.00
Introducing Advieh Ash - This ancient Persian spice mix derives from the Achaemenid Empire, 6th-century BC. A slightly sweet and nutty aromatic blend, composed primarily of dried fenugreek leaves. Advieh Ash has hints of spice with umami undertones, pairing wonderfully with root vegetables, pulses and lentils. All natural, salt-free, and vegan.
Endless Culinary Adventures - Advieh Ash is the ideal accompaniment for soups, stews, ramen, and bone broths of all types. Customers also love it in couscous and rice dishes. Just a pinch of this exquisite blend will elevate your soup to the next level.
We mill and blend in-house. We endeavour to use the freshest spices that are within one year from field to jar with a focus on ingredients that come from regenerative farms.
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Advieh Mahi $12.00
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!
We mill and blend in-house. We endeavour to use the freshest spices that are within one year from field to jar with a focus on ingredients that come from regenerative farms.