Fenugreek is a small annual legume whose seeds and leaves (called methi) are both used as flavorings, with a bittersweet, faintly maple-like taste. Native to the Mediterranean and parts of Asia, it is grown widely in India, where it is a signature ingredient.
The seeds are ground into curry powders and spice blends such as garam masala, or used whole to flavor breads, pickles, and chutneys; the leaves are cooked into curries and vegetable dishes. Fenugreek's bitterness is often balanced with acidic ingredients like lemon, tomato, or yogurt, and it pairs well with cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garlic.
Kasuri methi is dried fenugreek leaf, distinct from fenugreek seed.