chutney seed la times crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for the solution to "chutney seed la times crossword," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find the answer(s) and detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle and learn more about the clue.
Solutions for "chutney seed la times crossword" by Letter Count
9 Letters
FENUGREEK: A yellowish-brown seed with a pungent, aromatic flavor, commonly used as a spice in Indian cuisine, including chutneys and curries.
More About "chutney seed la times crossword"
The clue "chutney seed" most frequently points to FENUGREEK. This isn't just a random connection; fenugreek seeds (known as 'methi' in India) are a cornerstone spice in many South Asian chutneys, pickles, and curries. Their distinct, slightly bitter, and maple-like aroma, which becomes more pronounced when toasted, adds depth and complexity to these condiments.
Crossword constructors often rely on these specific culinary connections. Fenugreek's role in chutneys makes it a prime candidate for such clues, especially when a nine-letter word is required. While other seeds like mustard or cumin are also used in chutneys, fenugreek holds a unique place, making it the go-to answer for this particular phrasing in crosswords like those found in the LA Times.
Understanding these cultural and culinary nuances can often unlock more challenging crossword clues. The LA Times crossword, known for its clever and sometimes tricky clues, often expects solvers to have a general knowledge base that extends to cuisine and spices.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Culminary Connections: For clues related to food, spices, or ingredients, consider their common uses or origins. "Chutney seed" immediately hints at spices used in Asian or Indian cuisine.
- Consider Letter Count First: If you have a partial answer or a strong hunch, confirm it by checking if the word length matches your grid. For "chutney seed," a common answer is 9 letters.
- Look for Common Crossword "Traps": Sometimes clues might lead you down one path (e.g., general "seed"), but the specific modifier ("chutney") points to a very particular, often unique, ingredient.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you're stuck, try solving intersecting words first. Often, just one or two letters from another answer can reveal the entire solution for a tricky clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the common answer for 'chutney seed' in crosswords?
The most frequent answer for 'chutney seed' in crossword puzzles, especially in the LA Times, is FENUGREEK. This spice is a key ingredient in many chutneys, particularly in Indian cuisine.
Why is fenugreek associated with chutneys?
Fenugreek seeds (also known as methi) are a staple in Indian cooking and are often tempered or ground to add a distinctive, slightly bitter, and aromatic flavor to pickles, curries, and various types of chutneys. Their unique taste profile makes them a common ingredient referenced in culinary contexts, including crosswords.
Are there other seeds used in chutneys that could be crossword answers?
While FENUGREEK is the most common answer for 'chutney seed,' other seeds like mustard seeds, cumin seeds, or even coriander seeds are also used in different types of chutneys. However, FENUGREEK is uniquely identified as 'chutney seed' in many puzzles due to its specific flavor profile and commonality in these condiments, often making it the intended answer.