Asafoetida, also known as asafetida and hing, is a staple ingredient in Indian cooking and most commonly used in vegetarian recipes. Its pungent smell can make this powder seem off-putting, but rest assured it dissipates while cooking, bringing a full, savory flavor to foods.
Asafoetida is a pungent spice used in cooking, in addition to being consumed as a digestive aid. Native to Central Asia, particularly Iran and India, asafoetida comes from a very unusual source. It’s made by scraping the sap from the exposed root of a plant in the carrot family. The sap is dried and crushed, giving us a tan-colored powder to sprinkle into our dishes.
The sap contains many of the same sulfur compounds found in onions. It has a strong odor when dry, which many sources say is reminiscent of washed-rind cheeses or body odor. Not to worry – when the spice is added during cooking, it mellows out into a gentle flavor.
It’s essential to store asafoetida in an airtight container as its strong aroma can affect nearby spices and foods. When kept in a cool, dry, and dark location it can last up to one year.
How To Use Asafoetida
Asafoetida is used in savory dishes, often to add a more full flavor by mimicking the taste of onions, garlic, egg, and even meat. It’s a staple ingredient in Indian cooking, commonly used along with turmeric in lentil dishes like dal, and a variety of vegetable dishes.
Benefits
While studies on asafoetida are quite limited, early research suggests that it may have additional benefits, including:
Antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial effects. Test-tube studies have found asafoetida help protect against potential pathogens, such as various strains of Streptococcus bacteria.
Help lower blood pressure. Asafoetida may help lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels.
Anticancer effects. Test-tube studies have shown a potential for asafoetida to help stop the growth and spread of certain cancer cells, including breast and liver cancer.
Protect brain health. Several studies have found asafoetida may help protect against memory loss and nerve damage in the brain.
Help ease asthma symptoms. Studies have shown that asafoetida has a relaxing effect on airway smooth muscles, which is important in the treatment of asthma.
Help lower blood sugar levels. One study found 50 mg/kg of asafoetida extract to reduce fasting blood sugar levels.
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