Cultivated worldwide, fenugreek is enjoyed in many ethnic cuisines. Look for its nutty, spicy sweet flavor in curries, breads, teas and desserts. Also known as Greek hay seed, or trigonella, fenugreek is a member of the Leguminosae, or pea and bean family. Fenugreek's Latin name
Foenum graecum, means Greek hay. The ancients used it for hay, as well as food and medicine. Fenugreek seeds are rich in protein, and in some cultures,both the leaves and seeds are consumed as a food.
As a seasoning, the seeds are used whole or ground in a variety of ethnic cuisines. Fenugreek provides tang to Indian and Thai curry blends and other spice mixtures, chutneys and Middle Eastern halva. In several African countries and in Egypt, the seeds are roasted to produce a hot, coffee-like beverage. Egyptians also grind and mix the seeds with wheat flour to make bread. Fenugreek leaves are served as a vegetable in India. In the United States, fenugreek is used as a flavoring in beverages, candies and desserts, meat dishes, pickles, baked goods and puddings. Fenugreek and mint make a lovely tea blend.