The Story of Saunf: How This Tiny Seed Became an Everyday Kitchen Favourite
Some of the items used in Indian households may appear insignificant, but their significance in culinary practices cannot be understated. One such item is Saunf, which is popularly known as fennel seeds. Found in a small box kept on the dining table, in spice blends, in candies, in pickles, and as mouth fresheners, Saunf has become an integral part of Indian culinary practices.
Being a naturally sweet and aromatic herb, Saunf has gained popularity by being consumed after a meal or during the cooking of different dishes. The taste of this herb has made it popular through the ages. It is so common in Indian culinary practices that people eat Saunf after a meal in restaurants, during weddings, and even in families.
What Is Saunf?
"Fennel Seeds" in English are known as "Saunf" in India, which are derived from the fennel plant (Foeniculum vulgare). Saunf is a part of the same botanical family as some other spices such as cumin and coriander.
The seeds are easily distinguished by their oval shape, green colour, aromatic nature, and slight sweetness. Unlike most spices that have a strong taste, saunf has a mild flavour that can be used for sweet and savoury dishes.
One of the main uses of saunf in India is attributed to this characteristic.
From an Ancient Ingredient to an Indian Kitchen Staple
Fennel is native to the Mediterranean area and has been used as a flavouring agent in several cuisines over the years. Fennel has grown in popularity in Indian cuisine and has evolved to serve an especially well-known purpose in regional cuisines and post-meal traditions.
In Indian cuisine, saunf has come to mean more than just a flavouring ingredient. It became a common ritual to finish off meals with some aromatics and fresh breath. A dish of fennel seeds is now often instantly recognised as the sign of a completed meal.
Why Is Saunf Traditionally Eaten After Meals?
The one area in which saunf is used that is most recognisable is as a mouth freshener after a meal. The refreshing scent of saunf leaves a pleasant taste in the mouth, making it customary to consume it after a meal.
Fennel has always been known to have properties that ease digestion, as seen in the current literature available. However, the property of fennel to have carminative effects does not mean that it takes the place of any medical treatment for symptoms of bloating and gas.