Asafoetida

Asafoetida

Description

Asafoetida is the dried gum like substance (gum oleoresin) taken from the underground rhizome or tap root of various species of Ferula. Of these, three are grown in India. it is a perennial herb that grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters.

Origin & Distribution

Asafoetida can be found from the Mediterranean region to Central Asia. In India it is grown in Kashmir and in some parts of Punjab.India depends mainly on Afghanistan and Iran for meeting its requirement of asafoetida.

The two main varieties of asafoetida are Hing Kabuli Sufaid (Milky white asafoetida) and Hing Lal (Red asafoetida). Asafoetida is acrid and bitter in taste and emits a strong disagreeable pungent smell due to the presence of sulphur compounds. While the white or pale variety is water soluble, the dark or black variety is oil soluble.

Because of its strong flavour, pure asafoetida is not used. it is diluted with starch and gum and sold as compounded asafoetida usually in the bricket form. It is also available as free flowing powder.

Uses

Asafoetida is used as a flavouring agent in curries, sauces, and pickles. Because of its antibiotic properties, It is also used in medicines.