Asafoetida

Available from World Spice Merchants when we last checked. Sold from the shop’s own store; the price there is the one that counts.

Asafoetida is a unique-smelling spice to say the least. The pungent odor gives little hint at the onion and garlic flavors hiding within. Made from resin of the giant fennel plant, the intense sulfur compounds that dominate its raw form disappear when cooked, leaving a baked garlic pungency in breads and curries. Asafoetida makes a wonderful sprinkle on firm fruits like apple and makes a nice topper for chips and fries. Use a light hand with this one, folks, it is intense.