Mathleaf?

[NulloModo]

Hiya,

Today at the farmers market I picked up a bundle of something called 'Mathleaf' (also pronounced 'Matleaf' by the checkout lady, who told me it was Indian, but that was all she knew). It looks sort of like parsley, and has a nice sweet almost anisey aroma. I am planning on trying it out in an okra/catfish stew I am making tonight, but have never had it before.

Does anyone know anything about this herb? What does it taste like cooked? How is it traditionally used?

[laurel]

Fenugreek/Methi maybe?

http://www.foodsubs.com/HerbsIndian.html

I've only encountered it in Indian cooking, so maybe asking on the India forum would work. The only thing I've ever made with it is Aloo Methi, with potatoes and dried methi.

[NulloModo]

Ah yes, they do look a lot like those Fenugreek leaves. Now, how to use the suckers...

[Suzanne F]

It's a classic combined with potatoes. I love to add some crumbled, dried methi leaves to mashed potatoes. The leaves give it a very faint curry-ish flavor. Probably would work with fresh.

[NulloModo]

I ended up tossing in a chopped up handful to my stew, it actually gave it a nice flavor, I might have to pick this stuff up again if I ever see it.

[Carrot Top]

It also makes a nice tea, which is very healthy...with a wonderful aroma.

[NulloModo]

It also makes a nice tea, which is very healthy...with a wonderful aroma.

Oh yes? I have a good bit leftover, how do you prepare it, do you use anything else?

[Carrot Top]

Use like fresh mint...wash it, of course...and just pour boiling water over it, steep to desired strength, and strain. As with any herb that is fresh rather than dry, use 'approximately' three times the amount that you would use (dry tea leaves) per cup.

I am not fussy about this sort of thing...I just grab a bunch of the stuff and drop it into the boiling water in the pot then when it's ready, pour through whatever strainer or colander is easiest to reach!

Honey, sugar, Splenda, if you like, or 'straight up'.

In herbal lore, methi/fenugreek is supposed to be good for uh, (slightly gross, sorry) clearing out any excess 'mucous' in the body's systems...stuffed up noses, post-nasal drip, sinus congestion, etc.

I love the aroma of the stuff. Enjoy!

[get in my belly]

thanx laurel thats a cool web site .