Whole Spices #294432

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.

An Eastern European culinary staple; potato, cabbage and heavy meat dishes benefit from the strong, savory character of caraway seed. Its flavor is most recognizable in rye bread. The flavor of caraway infuses seamlessly into maple syrup for a delightful topper on granola and fruit.

Cassia sticks are a good choice to be slow cooked into curries or stews. They also make a tasty garnish in mulled beverages. We've found this high oil content Indonesian variety to be consistently strong and pure.