1. a strong-smelling resin obtained from the roots of certain plants native to Central Asia, used as a spice and flavoring agent in cooking, especially in Indian cuisine.
Usage: also spelled asa foetida or asafoetida; the name comes from Persian and means 'resin of the stink plant'

Examples

• Asafetida is a key ingredient in many Indian spice blends.
• The cook added a pinch of asafetida to the lentil dish for depth of flavor.
• Asafetida has a pungent smell when raw but becomes milder when cooked.
• Traditional Indian cuisine relies on asafetida as a digestive aid and flavoring.
• The resin form of asafetida must be dissolved in oil or water before use.