What is Blue Fenugreek?
Blue Fenugreek (Trigonella caerulea) is a traditional herb from the legume family (Fabaceae), native to the Caucasus and the Mediterranean. This upright-growing annual plant reaches 20–60 cm in height and features a hollow stem. Its dried, ground leaves are used as a seasoning in various regional cuisines.
Other Names for Blue Fenugreek
- Zigerklee or Zigerkraut (Switzerland)
- Zigeunerkraut (South Tyrol)
- Cheese Clover, known for enhancing cheese dishes
- Blue Sweet Clover
- Bread Clover, commonly used in rye bread and other baked goods
Blue Fenugreek Powder
- Dried and finely ground seasoning
- Used in Swiss, Georgian, and Austrian cuisine
- Distinctly savory and slightly bitter flavor
- Ideal for cheese dishes, spreads, salads, and baking
How Does Blue Fenugreek Taste?
Blue Fenugreek has a strong, aromatic, and mildly bitter flavor, somewhat reminiscent of curry. It adds a distinct note to breads and cheese specialties. In Switzerland, it is a key component of traditional Schabziger cheese.
What Can Replace Blue Fenugreek?
When Blue Fenugreek is not available, fenugreek seeds may be used as an alternative. Due to their stronger taste, a smaller quantity is recommended.
How Is Blue Sweet Clover Used?
Also called Cheese Clover, Blue Sweet Clover is traditionally used to season bread, cheese, and savory dishes. In Switzerland, it’s an essential ingredient in Schabziger cheese. In South Tyrol, it flavors regional flatbreads such as Schüttelbrot and Vinschgauer, typically seasoned with Blue Fenugreek, fennel, anise, caraway, coriander, and salt.
This spice also suits waffles, pancakes, savory pastries, salads, dips, and spreads made with cream cheese or quark.
What Spices Pair Well with Bread Clover?
Bread Clover blends well with classic baking spices such as anise, caraway, fennel, and coriander. It also complements fenugreek, nutmeg, pepper, and chili.
Storage Tips
Store Blue Fenugreek and other spices in airtight containers. Keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place. Ground spices should be especially well protected from moisture to retain their aroma.
