Alforba | fenugreek leaves | trigonella foenum-graecum
What is Alforba – Alforba is the Portuguese name for Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) – It is an annual plant in the family Fabaceae, with leaves consisting of three small ovate to oblong leaflets. It is cultivated worldwide. Its scientific name is Trigonella foenum-graecum.
Alforba or fenugreek seeds and leaves form a common but important ingredient in Indian subcontinent households. It is used in almost every Indian preparation like dal, paratha or curry.
For thousands of years, fenugreek has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions and many other diseases. It is also a common household spice and thickening agent.
Read more: Health Benefits of Alforba
All parts of the Alforba plant are edible, but the fresh leaves and the dried leaves & seeds (as a spice) are the parts most traditionally used in cooking. Fenugreek seeds (per 100 g) are a rich source of protein (46% DV), dietary fiber, B vitamins, and dietary minerals, particularly manganese (59% DV) and iron (262% DV) (table).