Do you feel like something is missing when cooking your favorite dishes? Then let us introduce you to Kasoori Methi.
These dried leaves could hold all the flavors you need to perfect that recipe.
Kasoori Methi is most commonly used in Indian and East Asian cuisines. The dried leaves are extremely important in curries, parathas, and many other dishes.
They offer a lot of flavors that can transform any dish.
However, finding Kasoori Methi may be a bit of a wild goose chase in American grocery stores. Below are 5 of the best substitutes for Kasoori Methi including spinach, dried mustard greens, and even maple syrup.
They offer just as much flavor but may be slightly easier to find.
Let’s get into it!
5 Best Substitutes For Kasoori Methi
Now, if you find yourself in the grocery store and cannot find Kasoori Methi on any of the shelves. Well, not to worry. We have 5 of the best substitutes that will offer similar flavor profiles.
Substitute | Protein | Substitute Ratio | Calories |
Spinach | 0.1g | 1:1 | 0 Kcals |
Collard Greens | 1.1g | 1:1 | 11 Kcals |
Fenugreek Seeds | 2.55g | 1:1 | 36 Kcals |
Dried Mustard Leaves | 2g | 1:1 | 15 Kcals |
Maple Syrup | 0g | 1:1 | 39 Kcals |
What Does Kasoori Methi Taste Like?
Dried fenugreek leaves, also known as kasoori methi or kasoori methi, are frequently used in Indian cuisine.
Kasuri Methi, one of the most significant Indian spices used in curries, veggies, parathas, and other foods, must be well known to many people.
These dried fenugreek plant leaves are prized for their flavor, which is bitter yet seductively scented.
Kasuri Methi provides numerous health advantages in addition to giving the food a distinctive taste and flavor. Both seeds and dry leaves are sold as Kasuri methi.
Many people confuse Kasoori Methi and Methi. And that’s because they are essentially the same thing. Methi is the fresh leaves from the Fenugreek plant.
Kasoori Methi is the dried leaves of the Fenugreek plant that are easier to store and last much longer.
Nutritional Value Of Kasoori Methi
Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbohydrates | Sugar |
15 Kcals | 1g | 0.2g | 2g | 0g |
1. Spinach
You may be surprised to find spinach on this list as it is often used for the texture it provides than the flavor. However, spinach has both an aroma and texture that is similar to Kasoori Methi when cooked.
While spinach might not exactly replicate the flavor of Kasoori Methi, adding some seeds can help. They can successfully be used in place of Kasoori Methi.
Not to mention the nutrients that you can get from spinach. It is high in iron, calcium, and vitamin A. All of which are excellent for your overall health and well-being.
Using spinach as an alternative for Kasoori Methi may not give you the same exact taste. But it is going to give a layer of flavor that completes your dish perfectly.
2. Collard Greens
Compared to Kasoori Methi, Collard Greens have a much more bitter taste. However, they still work great as an alternative to the dried leaves.
You just have to pay more attention when working with Collard Greens due to the bitter taste.
A general rule of thumb is that for every tablespoon of Kasoori Methi you would typically use, replace it with a tablespoon of Collard Greens.
The measurements remain the same. You just have to be careful not to overdo it with the Collard Greens. They can completely change the flavor of your dish if you use too much.
3. Fenugreek Seed
As mentioned above, Fenugreek Seeds come from the same plant as Kasoori Methi. However, they hold some more spice than the dried leaves.
When using Fenugreek Seeds, it is important to add them to your dish at the beginning of the cooking process.
This allows the aromas and flavors to be released from the seed and ensures they aren’t too overpowering when serving your dish.
Due to their strong flavor and scent, fenugreek seeds might serve as a decent substitute for Kasoori Methi if you don’t have any on hand. They both have a similar fragrance, which makes the swap successful.
4. Dried Mustard Greens
Dried Mustard Greens are one of the most popular alternatives for Kasoori Methi.
You may recognize them as Curly Mustards or Curled Mustards. They are a vegetable that offers a bitter and slightly spicy taste that is perfect for substituting Kasoori Methi.
It’s vital to rehydrate dried mustard greens before using them in a recipe by soaking them in water for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to be released and makes them much easier to enjoy in your dish.
5. Maple Syrup
Maple Syrup is not something you would expect to see on this list but both Kasoori Methi and Maple Syrup contain a chemical compound called Solotone.
This is what gives both ingredients their intense fragrance and flavor.
Now, when using Maple Syrup it should not be added to your dish until the very end.
This recommendation is made since it is thought that adding maple syrup at the beginning will be unsuccessful because its aroma dissipates very quickly.
Popular Recipes That Call For Kasoori Methi
Chicken Methi
This is a popular dish in Indian restaurants that is easy and absolutely delicious. It is ready in less than an hour and is ideal for a tasty dinner throughout the week.
This is an indulgent Indian dish that is smooth and creamy. The perfect Friday night dinner that is boasting strong flavors.
Serve with rice and roti for a complete meal that is tasty. It does involve a lot of ingredients but anyone can make this Chicken Methi recipe.
Aloo Methi
Aloo Methi is a gorgeous potato dish that is flavorful and satisfying. It is a simple dish and requires basic ingredients including Kasoori Methi for that perfect taste.
This North Indian dish uses stir-fried potatoes that are then seasoned with garam masala, ginger, and Kasoori Methi.
Ideal for lunch boxes or even as a side dish at dinner. Just make sure to give your Kasoori Methi a good wash in the sink.
Methi Paneer
Paneer is an awesome veggie option for many Indian dishes. This Methi Paneer is simple, creamy, and tasty.
Serve with garlic naan bread or some fragranced rice. This is the perfect introduction to Indian cuisine as it involves minimal ingredients and will always turn out perfect.
Final Thoughts
Kasoori Methi is an incredible ingredient that adds flavor and body to a wide range of meals.
It is a great ingredient that is an essential part of East Asian cuisine. It offers a strong, dense flavor that you can enjoy time and time again.
However, if you run out or simply cannot find Kasoori Methi in your grocery store then we have the perfect substitutes.
From spinach to maple syrup, you would be surprised to find that many of the items in your pantry are great alternatives.
Check them out above and discover a whole new world of flavor. All you need is some creativity to make sure you get the first bite!