blue fenugreek
Blue fenugreek, called utskho suneli in Georgia: dried, ground leaves and seed pods with a mild, hay-like, nutty aroma.
Blue fenugreek is a close relative of common fenugreek whose leaves, flowers and seed pods are dried and finely ground. In Georgia it is called utskho suneli and is a main component of the spice blend khmeli suneli, with which it should not be confused. It smells of hay, nuts and a little maple syrup, and is much milder and less bitter than common fenugreek, so it can be used generously, especially in walnut sauces, stews and vegetable pastes. In the Alpine region it is known as bread clover or Schabziger clover and can sometimes be found in health food or spice shops there. Otherwise look for it in Georgian, Russian or Eastern European grocers, or order it online.
Substitute:
Dried fenugreek leaves from an Indian grocer come closest but are stronger and more bitter, so use about half the amount; ground fenugreek seed is harsher still and works only very sparingly. Khmeli suneli contains blue fenugreek but also brings coriander, dill and other spices, which changes the character of the dish.