Indian Five Spice (Panch Phoron): A Unique Flavor Profile

Panch Phoron, or Indian Five Spice, is a traditional spice mix used primarily in Eastern India, especially in Bengali and Assamese cuisine. The five whole spices in Panch Phoron include: Fenugreek seeds: Bitter and slightly sweet, known for its health benefits. Cumin seeds: Adds warmth and earthiness. Mustard seeds: Pungent with a slight heat. Nigella seeds: Adds a peppery, onion-like flavor. Fennel seeds: Sweet and aromatic. Unlike ground spice blends, Panch Phoron is used in its whole form. It’s typically tempered in hot oil at the beginning of a recipe to release its aromatic oils and flavor. The result is a combination of bitter, sweet, and earthy notes, perfect for curries, pickles, and vegetable stir-fries.