Fresh kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves) in wooden bowl showing vibrant green colour and authentic texture for Indian cooking

What is Kasoori Methi (Kasuri Methi) in English?

Kasuri methi (also spelled kasoori methi) is the Hindi name for dried fenugreek leaves. Both spellings refer to exactly the same spice - the difference comes from transliteration of the Hindi word कसूरी मेथी.

It's made by drying fresh fenugreek (methi) leaves until they turn a greenish-brown colour. The leaves have a slightly bitter taste and are commonly used in Indian cooking to add flavour to dishes like curries, naan bread, and butter chicken.

Different names for the same ingredient:

  • Kasuri methi / Kasoori methi (कसूरी मेथी in Hindi)
  • Dried fenugreek leaves (English)
  • Methi leaves (simplified English)
  • Dried methi leaves

The fresh plant is called fenugreek or methi, while "kasuri" refers specifically to the dried version of the leaves. The dried leaves are shelf-stable and more concentrated in flavour than fresh leaves. You can find authentic kasuri methi in our spice collection, and learn more about this essential ingredient in our detailed kasuri methi guide. Can't find it locally? See our kasoori methi substitutes guide.

New to Indian cooking? Kasoori methi is one of many spices worth having on hand. Browse our full essential Indian spices for beginners collection.

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1 comment

very good explanation.., thank you !

Manoharan Harding

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