Pure Asafoetida is definitely up there with the most weird and wonderful spices you can find. This gum oleoresin comes from the rhizome of the Ferula assa-foetida plant and sometimes goes by the name “hing”. This is one of the nicer names it has – others include Devil’s Dung, Stinking Gum, Stinkender… need we go on! You may have guessed, but this stuff reeks. While the scent on it’s own isn’t exactly disgusting (to many people, at least), the strength of it can be overwhelming. Even a small amount can fill a room quickly and may linger for a good long while. Many other Asafoetida products on the market are blends of asafoetida with other ingredients. A decent quality one will use fenugreek, lower quality ones may use rice flour or other flours. This version is the pure stuff, and a little will go a long way, so always start off with a small amount when cooking. This is a spice that is easy to overdo!
WARNING –Â Pure Asafoetida will stain skin and it can take months to fade away, so be sure to wear gloves or use tools to handle it.
So, all that said, is it worth the bother of using Pure Asafoetida? Definitely. If you’re into Asian/ Indian cooking, some would say it’s essential. Despite the smell of it, when you fry off just a small amount, it takes on an incredible flavour like garlic and onions. Not only is this authentic, but is great for those avoiding alliums if you have an intolerance. With careful use and a (nose peg), this can really add a great deal of flavour to your foods!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Cereals containing gluten
- Peanuts
- Soybeans
- Nuts
- Mustard
- Celery
- Milk and Dairy products
- Sesame Seeds
- Products containing sulphur dioxide at concentrations more than 10mg/kg or 10mg/litre.
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