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How to Use Fenugreek Seeds in the Kitchen
Fenugreek seeds and leaves have been a staple in Indian cooking since ancient times.
It offers numerous health benefits, particularly for bone strength, joint health, and reducing inflammation.
They not only add a distinct, bitter flavour and aromatic depth to dishes.
Fenugreek is commonly used in curries, as a seasoning, and even in sweet recipes for its digestive and medicinal properties.
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Recipes:
Fenugreek-Dry Ginger Ladoo:
Ingredients: |
Fenugreek seeds |
3 t.spoon |
Whole wheat flour |
1 cup |
Ghee |
½ cup |
Jaggery |
1 cup |
Ginger powder |
2 t.spoon |
Long pepper root powder |
½ t.spoon |
Fennel seeds |
2 t.spoon |
Recipe: |
In a frying pan, dry roast the fennel seeds and fenugreek seeds on low flame until they become aromatic. |
Turn off the flame and add long pepper root powder and dry ginger powder. Mix everything well in the pan. |
Let the mixture cool slightly, then grind it into a fine powder using a grinder. |
In another pan, heat ghee and roast the whole wheat flour on low to medium flame until it turns light to medium brown. Allow it to cool completely. |
Once the flour mixture is cool, combine it with the ground spice mixture and jaggery. Mix thoroughly using your hands until the mixture holds shape. |
Shape the mixture into lemon-sized balls. |
Store the ladoos in an airtight jar. They stay fresh for up to 1 month. |
This is a nutritious and energy-boosting sweet, especially beneficial during winter. It is traditionally known to help with joint pain, inflammation, and general weakness. |
Fenugreek Seeds Curry:
Ingredients: |
Fenugreek seeds |
1 cup |
Oil |
2-3 t.spoon |
Turmeric |
½ t.spoon |
Cumin seeds |
½ t.spoon |
Salt |
as per taste |
Chopped green chilli |
2-3 |
Ginger grated |
2 t.spoon |
Coriander leaves |
2 t.spoon (chopped) |
Asafoetida |
1 pinch |
Curry leaves |
2 t.spoon |
Lemon juice |
1 t.spoon |
Jaggery (optional) |
1 t.spoon |
Recipe: |
Soak 1 cup of fenugreek seeds in 2 cups of water overnight. In the morning, drain the excess water. |
In a pressure cooker, add the soaked fenugreek seeds, 2 cups of fresh water, and salt. Cook for 3 whistles. |
Once cooked, strain the water and transfer the boiled fenugreek seeds to a bowl. |
In a frying pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Let them crackle. |
Add turmeric powder, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Saute briefly. |
Add grated ginger and chopped green chillies. Saute for about 1 minute. |
Add the boiled fenugreek seeds along with ½ cup of water. Cook on medium heat for 10-12 minutes. |
Finish by adding lemon juice and jaggery (optional). Mix well and turn off the heat. |
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or chapati. |
This dish is excellent for elders, particularly those suffering from joint pain and constipation. However, it’s best to omit lemon juice for older adults. It's also beneficial for adults as a vitamin and mineral-rich meal. |
Fenugreek-Jaggery Chutney (Dip):
Ingredients: |
Fenugreek seeds |
½ cup |
Salt |
as per taste |
Jaggery |
½ cup |
Dates |
½ cup |
Cumin powder |
½ t.spoon |
Coriander powder |
½ t.spoon |
Red chilli powder |
¼ t.spoon |
Turmeric |
½ t.spoon |
Dry kokum |
2-3 pieces |
Recipe: |
Soak the fenugreek seeds in water for 7-8 hours. |
Separately, soak the dates and dry kokum in warm water for 3-4 hours. |
After soaking, grind the dates and kokum into a smooth paste. Remove any fibres or seeds during the process. |
In a pressure cooker, add soaked fenugreek seeds, kokum-date paste, salt, jaggery, red chilli powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and turmeric. |
Add enough water for cooking and pressure cook for 3-4 whistles. |
Allow the cooker to cool, then open the lid and mash the mixture using a ladle to form a coarse chutney. |
Serve the chutney warm or at room temperature with lunch, breakfast, or as a dip with snacks. |
This chutney is rich in minerals, making it a nutritious choice for both children and adults. It supports digestion, enhances appetite, and adds a flavorful twist to any meal. |
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Herbs and Medicinal Plants
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