How to Prepare Chaat Masala
Chaat masala is a popular Indian spice blend that adds a unique tangy and savory flavor to a variety of dishes. It is commonly used in street food like chaat, a popular Indian snack that consists of a mix of fried, crispy, and spicy ingredients. If you’re looking to make your own chaat masala at home, follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and authentic blend.
Ingredients
To prepare chaat masala, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon of black salt (kala namak)
– 1/2 teaspoon of amchur powder (dried mango powder)
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing)
– 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried ginger powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of carom seeds (ajwain)
– 1/4 teaspoon of fennel seeds (saunf)
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of ajwain powder (optional)
Instructions
1. Begin by grinding the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds, black salt, amchur powder, black pepper, asafoetida, red chili powder, dried ginger powder, turmeric powder, carom seeds, fennel seeds, and salt in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle until they form a fine powder.
2. If you have ajwain powder, add it to the mixture and grind again until well combined.
3. Transfer the ground spices to a small bowl and mix well. Ensure that all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the blend.
4. Your homemade chaat masala is now ready to be used. Store it in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place. It should last for several months.
Using Chaat Masala
Once you have prepared your chaat masala, you can use it in a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:
– Sprinkle it over fried snacks like bhajis, pakoras, or samosas.
– Add it to salads, soups, or stews for an extra kick of flavor.
– Mix it with yogurt or buttermilk to create a tangy dip for your favorite Indian snacks.
– Use it as a seasoning for grilled meats or vegetables.
By following these simple steps, you can now enjoy the convenience of homemade chaat masala, adding that authentic Indian flavor to your favorite dishes. Happy cooking!
