Masala is a blend of spices commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is a versatile spice mix that can be used in a variety of dishes, from curries to soups and stews. Making your own masala at home is easy and allows you to customize the blend to your liking.
Ingredients
To make masala, you will need the following ingredients:
2 tablespoons coriander seeds
1 tablespoon cumin seeds
1 tablespoon fennel seeds
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
1 cinnamon stick
5 green cardamom pods
5 cloves
1 bay leaf
Instructions
1. Start by toasting the coriander, cumin, fennel, black peppercorns, and mustard seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. 2. Add the cinnamon stick, green cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf to the skillet and continue to toast for another minute or two. 3. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the spices cool. 4. Once the spices have cooled, transfer them to a spice grinder or mortar and pestle and grind to a fine powder. 5. Store the masala in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Nutrition
Masala is a low-calorie spice mix that adds flavor to dishes without adding significant calories. The spices used in masala are also known for their health benefits. For example, coriander is rich in antioxidants, cumin is known to aid digestion, and black pepper has anti-inflammatory properties.
Conclusion
Making your own masala is a simple way to add flavor and health benefits to your cooking. Experiment with different spice blends to find your favorite combination. Use masala in curries, soups, stews, and more to add a delicious and aromatic touch to your dishes.