Traditional Yemeni Saltah Stew with Fenugreek Foam
Quick answer
A medium portion of Traditional Yemeni Saltah Stew with Fenugreek Foam (300 g) contains 495 kcal, with 31.5 g of net carbohydrates and 33 g of protein. Its glycemic index is 35 (Low) for how fast it raises blood sugar, while its glycemic load per portion is 11 (Medium) for its actual effect.
- Carbs42 g34%
- Protein33 g26.7%
- Fat21.6 g39.3%
- Fibre10.5 g
Percentages of total energy (calories)
Yemen’s iconic national dish, served bubbling in a stone pot (madra): meat broth and stewed vegetables topped with whipped fenugreek foam and hot sauce (sahawiq); a low glycemic index (35) and plenty of fibre.
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Fenugreek is rich in soluble fibre and has been studied as a supplement at doses far higher than in this dish, so the fenugreek foam is not a treatment for blood sugar, but it does add fibre and a distinctive flavour.
Best preparation methods
Eat saltah straight from the spoon or with half a wholegrain flatbread to enjoy it without raising the glycemic load.
Important Nutritional Note
For people with diabetes or insulin resistance, it is always recommended to consider the total glycemic load (GL) of the meal rather than relying on the glycemic index alone.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (300 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 165 kcal | 495 kcal |
| Protein | 11 g | 33 g |
| Carbohydrate | 14 g | 42 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 10.5 g | 31.5 g |
| Fat | 7.2 g | 21.6 g |
| Dietary fibre | 3.5 g | 10.5 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
Among the foods in Arabic dishes with a glycemic index (46), it ranks 17 (lowest first).
Smart alternatives from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Traditional Yemeni Saltah Stew with Fenugreek Foam good for weight loss?
It can be included in moderation: it contains 3.5 g of fibre per 100 g, which supports fullness, and a 300 g portion gives 495 kcal.
How does Traditional Yemeni Saltah Stew with Fenugreek Foam affect blood sugar?
Its glycemic index is 35 (Low), a clinically reviewed estimate rather than a laboratory measurement. A typical 300 g portion has a glycemic load of 11 (Medium), so it is best combined with protein or fibre-rich vegetables.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Traditional Yemeni Saltah Stew with Fenugreek Foam?
A typical 300 g portion of Traditional Yemeni Saltah Stew with Fenugreek Foam provides about 495 kcal, 33 g protein, 42 g carbohydrate, 21.6 g fat and 10.5 g fibre.
Read also
- Prediabetes: How to Stop the Train and Lower Your HbA1cGuide
- Gestational Diabetes Guide: Normal Levels and Foods to EatGuide
References & Scientific Sources
- The glycemic index of this food is a clinically reviewed estimate by the WiBo Health medical team, not a laboratory measurement from the International GI Tables (Atkinson 2021). GI bands (low ≤ 55 · medium 56–69 · high ≥ 70) follow: ISO 26642:2010. Food products — Determination of the glycaemic index (GI) and recommendation for food classification. International Organization for Standardization; 2010. www.iso.org/standard/43633.html
- Definition of available carbohydrate and glycemic load: FAO/WHO. Carbohydrates in human nutrition: report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 66. Rome; 1998. www.fao.org/4/w8079e/w8079e00.htm
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.