Fenugreek Seeds (Methi)

Fenugreek Seeds (Methi) : Fenugreek, popularly known as methi in several regions of India, is extensively used both as a condiment and a herb. Having originated in Asia and Mediterranean regions, it is greatly valued in India, Egypt, Greece and Italy for its flavouring and medicinal properties. In India, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab are the leading states involved in fenugreek cultivation. This robust herb has light green leaves, is 30-60 cms tall and produces slender, beaked pods, 10-15 cm long. Each pod contains 10-20 small hard yellowish-brown seeds, which are smooth and oblong, about 3mm long, each grooved across one corner, giving them a hooked appearance. In India, it is grown extensively in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Punjab. It is a cold season crop and is fairly tolerant to frost and very low temperature. The herb is a characteristic ingredient in some curries and chutneys and the fenugreek extract is used to make imitation maple syrup. Owing to its high nutritive contents, it is an important ingredient used in vegetable and dal dishes consumed in India.