FoodUnlock the secret of fenugreek. A spice cabinet must-have for health

Unlock the secret of fenugreek. A spice cabinet must-have for health

Fenugreek - Delicacies
Fenugreek - Delicacies
Images source: © Canva | Michelle Lee Photography

6:28 PM EDT, April 3, 2024

In your kitchen cabinets lie many treasures with properties you might not expect. Among these, a seemingly inconspicuous basket of spices reveals a true wealth for health. These spices, often forgotten and gathering dust, pack great power and are worth incorporating into your daily menu.

Finding fenugreek in everyday dishes is rare, mostly linked to oriental cuisine and Mediterranean dishes. Yet, fenugreek hides immense potential in terms of flavor and nutritional properties. Those looking to regulate their blood sugar levels or improve their well-being will find it particularly beneficial.

Fenugreek: A forgotten trove of health benefits

This annual legume has been cherished in medicine and cuisine for centuries, especially in Eastern countries. Fenugreek enriches dishes not only with its flavor but also with its numerous health benefits.

Rich in protein, fibre, vitamins (including A, B, C, E), and minerals (such as iron, magnesium, and calcium), fenugreek's flavonoids bolster blood vessel walls and combat free radicals. Its saponins help lower "bad" cholesterol levels and boost fat metabolism. Alkaloids provide pain relief and have antibacterial properties, while mucilaginous compounds soothe inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

Fenugreek - Delicacies
Fenugreek - Delicacies© Canva | SGAPhoto

Consume fenugreek for your well-being

Fenugreek aids in alleviating stomach issues by boosting gastric juice production, which improves digestion and minimizes discomfort after heavy meals. It also serves as a natural ally against diabetes—research indicates that it can lower blood sugar levels by up to 25 percent!

Beyond these benefits, fenugreek can assist in weight loss efforts. Its high fiber content regulates intestinal function, aids in toxin removal, and prolongs a sense of fullness, thus helping to curb appetite and prevent unnecessary snacking. Additionally, fenugreek stimulates metabolism, facilitating fat burn and weight loss.

Fenugreek is one of the ingredients of curry.
Fenugreek is one of the ingredients of curry.© Getty Images | PhotoAlto/I. Rozenbaum & F. Ciro

Pairing fenugreek in dishes

Fenugreek seeds, whether whole or ground, have a bitter taste that complements a variety of dishes, from oriental cuisine to vegetable and meat dishes, soups, salads, and sauces.

For a healthful infusion, steep 2 teaspoons of fenugreek seeds in a cup of boiling water for 30 minutes. Drinking this beverage twice a day—before breakfast and before bed—can offer significant health benefits.

The drink made from fenugreek is very simple to prepare.
The drink made from fenugreek is very simple to prepare.© Licensor | Ahmad Darmansyah