How to Prepare Tandoori Masala: A Spicy and Flavorful Secret Ingredient
Tandoori masala is a staple in Indian cuisine, known for its vibrant colors and intense flavors. This spice blend is used to marinate meats, vegetables, and even bread, giving them a distinctive smoky and tangy taste. If you’re looking to add a touch of authenticity to your Indian dishes, learning how to prepare tandoori masala is a must. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this flavorful spice blend at home.
Ingredients Needed
Before diving into the preparation process, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 tablespoon cumin powder
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
– 1 tablespoon red chili powder
– 1 tablespoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon fenugreek powder
– 1 teaspoon black salt
– 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
– 1/2 teaspoon dried mango powder (amchur)
– 1/4 teaspoon dried ginger powder
– 1/4 teaspoon dried garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon dried mint leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves
– 2 tablespoons oil (for mixing)
Preparation Steps
1. In a mixing bowl, combine all the dry spices: coriander powder, cumin powder, paprika, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, fenugreek powder, black salt, asafoetida, dried mango powder, dried ginger powder, dried garlic powder, ajwain, black pepper, dried mint leaves, and dried fenugreek leaves.
2. Mix the spices thoroughly until they are well combined.
3. Add the oil to the spice mixture and mix again. The oil will help bind the spices together and make the masala more cohesive.
4. Once the spices are well combined, transfer the tandoori masala to an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place. The masala can be kept for several months.
Using Tandoori Masala
Now that you have prepared your own tandoori masala, it’s time to use it in your favorite Indian dishes. Here are a few ideas:
– Marinate chicken, lamb, or fish in tandoori masala before grilling or roasting.
– Use tandoori masala to coat vegetables like cauliflower, eggplant, or bell peppers for a flavorful roasted dish.
– Sprinkle tandoori masala over naan or roti for a zesty twist.
– Add a pinch of tandoori masala to your next curry or stew for an extra layer of flavor.
In conclusion, learning how to prepare tandoori masala is a valuable skill for any aspiring Indian cook. With this homemade spice blend, you can bring the rich flavors of Indian cuisine to your kitchen. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile masala in a variety of dishes and savor the authentic taste of tandoori dishes.
