Fenugreek

How to Identify fenugreek

Fenugreek, the spice, comes as light brown seeds. The seeds grow in a pod on a bean like annual plant. The fenugreek plant can reach up to 2 ft (60 cm) and it has narrow, serrated leaves. The flowers are small, yellow or white, and they appear in the summer. The pods have the shape of a sword. Each pod can have between 10-20 seeds.

Fenugreek is native to India and southern Europe. It is grown commercially in India, Morocco and other African countries.

How to use and store fenugreek

The dried seeds are available whole or ground. They are slightly bitter and delicately aromatic. The secret lies in roasting the seeds very lightly, just until they begin changing color, before grinding them or adding them to curry mixes. The seeds become too bitter when over-roasted. Use sparingly.

In India and surrounding countries, the seeds are added to curry powders, pickles, chutneys, vegetable dishes and dhals.

In the Middle East and North Africa, the seeds are added to spiced dishes. In some regions in Africa, fenugreek seeds are soaked and cooked like beans.

Fenugreek seeds can be sprouted and added to soups or salads; they are refreshing and healthy. Don't let them grow further than the two-leaf stage.

How to grow fenugreek

It needs a temperate climate, and fertile, well drained soil. Sow outdoors in late spring and provide protection. Plants should be 9 in (25 cm) apart. Fenugreek plants take about four months to mature. Ensure plants get plenty of sun.

Cooking with fenugreek

Fenugreek goes especially well with eggplant and potatoes. Try this spiced eggplant recipe.

Fenugreek substitution

For the seeds, substitute 1 tsp fenugreek seeds with 1 tsp yellow mustard seeds.

For the leaves, substitute 1 Tbs chopped fresh fenugreek leaves with:

• 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves
• 1 Tbs chopped fresh Chinese celery leaves
• 1 Tbs chopped frehsh celery leaves
• 1 Tbs chopped watercress leaves

Cooking your way with fenugreek

Used in small quantities, as they do in India, fenugreek flavors vegetables in a unique way. Try to use fenugreek with vegetables, like cauliflower.