Asafoetida Powder

The Asafoetida plant is a large, fennel-like plant that grows mainly in Iran and India. The powdered gum resin of the plant imparts a very strong onion-garlic flavor and is used in small quantities to Indian dishes. The taste is bitter and acrid, however, when lightly toasted, it adds wonderful aroma and taste. Asafoetida is use to intensify the flavor of spice blends, fish, grilled or roasted meat and most vegetables. In Indian cooking, Asafoetida is used when making temper dals, curries, upmas and rasam.