Trigonella foecum-graecum or Fenugreek is an aromatic annual that has trifolate (clover-like) leaves and small pea-like white flowers in summer.
The flowers mature to a long pod with both foliage and pods being used as livestock fodder in parts of Europe.
However the young leaves, when crisp, can also be used to add a spicy zest to salads, sandwiches, as a leaf vegetable when steamed and can also be added to soups and stews.
The seeds from the pods are a common and delicious ingredient in Indian and other Asian dishes.
They are easy to dry, by opening the pods and laying them in the sun for a few days. They can then be roasted and ground for cooking or used for sprouting.
The fenugreek seed is often used in the preparation of curry powders, pickles and pastes, as well as in Thai & Indian cooking.