Asafoetida

Asafoetida (Ferula assafoetida), alternative spelling asafetida,( /æsəˈfɛtɨdə/) (also known as devil's dung, stinking gum, asant, food of the gods, giant fennel, Jowani badian, hing and ting) is the dried latex (gum oleoresin) exuded from the living underground rhizome or tap root of several species of Ferula, which is a perennial herb (1 to 1.5 m high). The species is native to Afghanistan mountains and are imported to India. Asafoetida has a pungent, unpleasant smell when raw, but in cooked dishes, it delivers a smooth flavor, reminiscent of leeks. This spice is used as a digestive aid, in food as a condiment, and in pickles. When uncooked its odour is so strong the aroma will contaminate other spices stored nearby if it is not stored...