Panch Phoron: A Versatile Bengali 5-Spice Blend

Panch Phoron: A Versatile Bengali 5-Spice Blend

Panch Phoron is a traditional Bengali spice blend made with five whole spices: cumin seeds, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and nigella seeds. It is often used to flavor lentil dishes, vegetables, and meats. Here is a simple recipe for making your own Panch Phoron blend at home:

Panch Phoron Spice Blend:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons cumin seeds
• 2 tablespoons fennel seeds  
• 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
• 2 tablespoons fenugreek seeds
• 2 tablespoons nigella seeds 

Instructions:

1) Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl.

2) Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.

To use the Panch Phoron spice blend, you can simply sprinkle it over lentils, vegetables, or meats before cooking, or you can use it to make a flavorful tempering oil by heating a small amount of oil in a pan and adding a teaspoon of the blend. 

Panch Phoron Lentils:

• Preparation time: 5 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Serves: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried lentils, rinsed and drained
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1.5 teaspoon Panch Phoron spice blend
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a medium pot, bring the lentils, water, salt, to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. In a small pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
4. Add a teaspoon of the Panch Phoron spice blend to the oil and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour the tempering oil over the cooked lentils and stir to combine.
6. Serve the lentils hot, garnished with additional Panch Phoron spice blend if desired.

If you're a fan of aromatic and flavorful Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, then you'll want to get to know Panch Phoron, a traditional Bengali spice blend made with five whole spices. Panch Phoron, which means "five spices" in Bengali, is a staple in many dishes in Bengali cuisine and adds a unique and complex flavor to a variety of dishes.

To make Panch Phoron, simply combine equal parts cumin seeds, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and nigella seeds. The blend can be stored in an airtight container for up to 6 months and is easy to use - simply sprinkle it over lentils, vegetables, or meats before cooking, or use it to make a flavorful tempering oil by heating a small amount of oil in a pan and adding a teaspoon of the blend.

Panch Phoron is a great way to add depth and complexity to simple dishes like lentils and rice, and it works well with a variety of vegetables, including potatoes, onions, and eggplants. It's also a delicious addition to grilled meats and fish, and it pairs well with yogurt-based sauces and chutneys.

Try using Panch Phoron in your cooking to add a unique and aromatic twist to your dishes. Whether you're a seasoned spice blend aficionado or new to experimenting with spices, Panch Phoron is a blend you'll want to keep on hand in your kitchen.