Panch phoron is a whole spice blend used in Eastern Indian and Bangladesh, especially in Bengali cuisine. Panch phoron literally means five spices. It’s a blend of Cumin seeds, Fennel seeds, Mustard seeds, Nigella seeds and Fenugreek seeds in equal proportions. Unlike other spice powders which are roasted and pounded, panch phoron is not ground.
Panch phoron is usually tempered in ghee or oil and is added in vegetable stir-fry’s, lentils and pickles. Each spice brings out a distinctive flavour. Cumin has a unique flavour and adds an earthy, strong and warm flavour. Fennel is highly aromatic and slightly sweet. Mustard has a sharp, hot and pungent flavour. Nigella seeds have a peppery and smoky flavour. Fenugreek is very aromatic and has a slightly bitter taste. The tempering releases the aroma and flavours of these spices.
The five spices not only impart flavour to the dish, but have significant health benefits too. Cumin helps in digestion and is an excellent source of iron. Fennel is used for digestive problems and a rich source of anti-oxidants, dietary fiber, minerals and vitamins. Mustard seeds speed up metabolism and are good source of antioxidants, selenium and magnesium. Nigella boosts immune function, fights cancer, inflammation and allergies and is a natural remedy to many diseases. Fenugreek seeds are used to cure digestive problems and a rich source of minerals, vitamins, and nutrients.
The panch phoron spice mix can be kept fresh for long time by storing in an airtight container. I will be posting few recipes using this spice mix soon!
Panch Phoron
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Cumin seeds/Jeera
- 2 tbsp Fennel seeds/Saunf
- 2 tbsp Mustard seeds
- 2 tbsp Nigella/Kalonji
- 2 tbsp Fenugreek seeds/Methi
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a airtight container. Shake well and mix.
Did you make this recipe?
Leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out for you! Or snap a photo and tag @spillthespices on Instagram and Facebook with the hashtag #spillthespices.
Very useful and flavorful ingredients for seasoning.
Love this spice mix especially in posto aloo.
Very flavorful spice mix
lovely clicks, and such a great spice mix. good one, Sona. And..hey, do drop by my "pick-quics (non foodie blog) if you are in for some real hearty laugh.
Its used more in my native, never used personally, will try now soon 🙂
my most fav spice mix..
Thanks for sharing. Love your clicks..
wow…something new to me..waiting for the recipe list to know more
Very nice post, traditional Bengali spices.
nice flavorful masala.
Flavorful and aromatic spice mix.
Nice pics and flavorful spice blend.
I made the recipe mentioned and it tastes yum with the spice flavour ..i even tried with potatoes but added a lot of garlic instead of ginger ..the spice mix gives a great flavour thanks
Thank you for the upload. It's a great info of traditional healthy kitchen practice of Bengal.