A division of Seedman.com
Fenugreek Seed
Note: Germination instructions are not on seed packets, follow the
instructions below for starting seed.
Planting Depth: 1 to 1-½ inches
Spacing, Row: 6-12 inches
Spacing, Plant: 2-3 inches
Light: Full Sun
Direct sow outside. Plant seed 1 to 1-½ inch deep in full sun. Space plants 2-3 inches apart on rows that are 6-12 inches apart. Fenugreek tolerates cool soils and light frosts in the early spring, but is damaged by early fall frosts (the seeds/pods turn black). Fenugreek likes hot and dry conditions. It may be grown on a fairly wide range of soils, but is best adapted to well-drained rich soils. Growth is slow and weak in cold temperatures and wet soils.
Fenugreek Info
Uncooked fenugreek seeds have an unpleasant, bitter taste, so the seeds are usually roasted and ground before use to mellow the bitterness. The seeds are very hard, and difficult to grind, a mortar and pestle working best.
Fenugreek is a favorite in Northern African and Middle Eastern dishes, and is one of the few spices that is usually used in powdered form even in Indian curries. Seed extract is used in imitation vanilla, butterscotch and rum flavorings, and is the main flavoring in imitation maple syrup.
Also used in breads in Egypt and Ethiopia. Ground seeds and/or leaves, can give a nice lift to some bland vegetarian dishes. Also good in marinades. Generally, a nice unusual flavor to experiment with to achieve some different effects. Use very young shoots with only a few leaves and some watercress for a nice salad addition. Fenugreek seeds are also used in candy, baked goods, ice cream, chewing gum and soft drinks. The seeds can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute.
Rich in vitamins and minerals, and because it is a seed and a legume, it is high in protein. (Which makes it very useful in vegetarian diets).
Return to NextHarvest.com Main Menu