Historically Hing or Asafoetida was first used in Europe, over time its use decreased there but it is commonly used in Indian Subcontinent. Hing or Asafoetida is very beneficial for health and its special aroma and flavor improves taste of food, today this is one of the favorites of cooks and homemakers. Asafoetida is derived from plant Ferula Asafoetida from Apiaceae family. The resin like gum is extracted from roots and stem of the plant which is whitish in color when fresh. Once this resin dries out it turns to amber color and hardens. These days Hing is available either in powder form or compound form. To obtain pure Asafoetida or hing out of compound form there is very simple technique. Dry heat the whole compound in a fry pan for 3-5 minutes, flip it and heat its other side as well. After few minutes white patches here and there will start to appear, let it cool down but not completely and when it is bearably hot take out the white patches. Collect them and grind them in grinder to get pure Hing Asafoe
tida powder. Powder obtained with this method not only has better aroma and taste but also more nutrition and holds good for one month if stored properly.
Culinary Uses of Hing Asafoetida Powder
Hing or Asafoetida powder is particularly used for seasoning lentils and beans, it makes these dishes very tasty and aromatic and also easy to digest. Hing Asafoetida powder is fried with turmeric, red chili, cumin seeds and celery in clarified butter to season Lentils after cooking for special taste and smell.
Hing or Asafoetida powder is used in all type of Curries; it compliments other spices and makes Curries even more delectable. This is used in gravies prepared for non-veggie dishes particularly chicken.
Hing or Asafoetida powder is used with all commonly cooked vegetables like Potato, Cauliflower, Green vegetables, Cabbage etc. Whether cooked dried or with gravy these vegetables get enhanced taste and aroma if seasoned with Asafoetida powder.
In Southern India cuisines like Sambhar and Rasam are commonly made for daily meals. Hing Asafoetida powder is necessary ingredient to enhance their taste and nutritional value.
Hing or Asafoetida powder mixed with salt is used to sprinkle over salad for taste, its smell and unique taste adds to the flavor of raw vegetables and fruits used to prepare salad platter. This mixture is also used with Buttermilk and fruit juices.
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