Region of Origin
Commodity:
Methi Leaf
Description & Origin
Methi is a leafy herb in the pea plant family with branched stems and small tear-drop shaped leaves. The seeds of methi are also used as a culinary and medicinal spice. The leaves have an earthy, grassy flavor with distinct bitter, maple-syrup-like notes. Their maple flavor is so pronounced that the extract of its seeds has been used in imitation maple products.
Methi is believed t...
Other Names
Fenugreek
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Methi is a nutritious vegetable containing minerals, vitamin A, amino acids, and more. It has long been used in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments. The seeds of methi, which are sold as a spice, are being studied for their ability to stabilize the glycemic index in people with diabetes.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Methi leaves are primarily cooked. In India, where methi is considered a winter green herb, the leaves are added to many dishes including dry curries like Methi Aloo, creamy curries like Methi Matar Malai, and breads like Methi Paratha. In Persian cuisine, they are often used in one of the most iconic dishes of the region: Ghormeh sabzi, an herby stew. They can be found in traditional recipes across the Eastern Mediterranean, Western Asia, and Southern Asia.
Flavor Pairings
Cilantro, Tomato, Chile Pepper, Potato, English Peas, Onion, Turmeric, Bread, Cream, Lamb, Beef
How to Prepare
Pluck methi leaves from their main stalks. Wash thoroughly and dry. Methi leaves are then ready for chopping and adding to recipes.
How to Store in the Kitchen
Store in the refrigerator, wrapped in a towel, in a sealed container or bag.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
Unused methi can be dried or parcooked and frozen.
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
41-44°F
TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
40-54°F (Cool Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING:
Unknown
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
90-95%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
Unknown
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Unknown
Quality Assessment
Methi should be bright green with firm leaves. Some browning around leaf edge is normal. Excessive browning, decay, or excessive wilting would be considered defects.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, methi leaf may last up to 2 weeks.
