Spice, Resin | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Hing

Ferula assa-foetida Allergens: Wheat
Hing

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Apiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Indian, Middle Eastern
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Ferula plant resin

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A potent, sulfurous-smelling resin from a giant fennel plant, used in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking as a digestive aid and for its savory, onion-garlic like flavor after cooking.

Sensory Profile

TastePungent (raw), Umami, Savory, Onion-Garlic like (cooked)
TextureFine powder, Sticky resin (raw)
AromaPungent, Sulfur, Onion, Garlic
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 0.25g (1/8 tsp)
Calories300 kcal
Total Fat1g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein4g
Total Carbohydrate65g
Dietary Fiber5g
Total Sugars0g
Calcium0mg
Iron0mg
Potassium0mg

Chef’s Secret

Always temper hing in hot oil or ghee for a few seconds before adding other ingredients to mellow its raw pungency and unlock its aromatic properties.

Substitutions

Best Match

Onion Powder & Garlic Powder

1:1:1 (Hing:Onion:Garlic)

Best substitute for savory, allium-like flavor, especially in Jain/Buddhist diets.

Onion & Garlic (fresh, minced)

1/2 tsp fresh per pinch hing

Provides natural allium flavor, but adds moisture and different texture.

Garlic Chives (minced)

1:1 (by volume, adjust to taste)

Offers a milder, fresh garlic/onion note, less pungent.

Black Salt (Kala Namak)

Pinch for pinch (use carefully)

For its sulfurous notes, but lacks the savory onion/garlic profile; only for specific applications.

Buying Guide

Buy in small quantities, store in airtight container, away from other spices due to strong odor. Look for gluten-free versions.

Flavor Pairings

Lentils beans potatoes vegetables curries tempering (tarka).

Recipes Using Hing

Baked Kofta Balls In Tomato Sauce image 156
Vegetarian Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less Cuisine

Baked Kofta Balls In Tomato Sauce

Discover a healthier twist on a classic! This recipe, inspired by the Hare Krishna cookbook "Higher Taste," features delicious baked kofta balls simmered in a rich tomato sauce. We've simplified the process by using high-quality jarred tomato sauce (homemade is always an option!), and baked the kofta for a lighter, less greasy result. Serve these flavorful meatballs over fluffy quinoa for a nutritious and satisfying vegetarian meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

See Complete Recipe