Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds are often used whole in tempering. They can be quite bitter with an undertone of maple flavor, so they are used in minute quantities. Fenugreek seeds are also part of pickled dishes (achari masala) and panch phoran (the whole Bengal spice mix).

They are protein rich and can be sprouted and used in salads for crunch. Often used in lentils and pickles, fenugreek seeds are well-known for their benefits in diabetes treatment.

When powdered, they are used in many blended masalas, in a small quantity because of their bitterness, like sambhar masala, rasam powder & others.

The powder is also used to make Methi Laddoos that are beneficial post-delivery and lactation. They are also helpful to ward off winter chills when ginger, jaggery and other hot spices are added to the laddoos.

Fenugreek is also used in certain recipes to aid fermentation. Like in Lemon Pickle, Mango Pickle, Idli and Dosa batter preparations.