Brown Masala Sauce (Daag)
Description
This rich and aromatic Brown Masala Sauce, known as Daag, is the perfect foundation for various dishes, infusing them with a deep, complex flavor profile that strikes a balance between medium spice and delightful aroma. Its bold ingredients and careful cooking techniques create a sauce that can elevate any meal.
Dietary Information
- Dietary Restrictions: Lactose-Free
Preparation Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Serves: 8
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Onions (finely diced) | 4 |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 6 cloves |
| Plum tomatoes | 800g |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 8 cm piece |
| Salt (to taste) | As needed |
| Turmeric | 1½ tsp |
| Coriander stalks (finely chopped) | Handful |
| Fresh green chillies (finely chopped) | 3 |
| Chilli powder | ½ tsp |
| Garam masala | 2 tsp |
| Coriander leaves (chopped) | Handful |
Instructions
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Sauté the Onions: Begin by heating the oil in a spacious pan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onions and sauté on high for a few minutes. Once they begin to soften, reduce the heat and allow them to cook gently. This slow cooking process is essential for achieving that beautiful dark golden brown color.
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Add Garlic: After about 5-10 minutes, once the onions are turning golden, add the finely chopped garlic to the pan. Continue to cook the mixture gently for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions have caramelized to a deep, rich brown.
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Incorporate the Tomatoes and Spices: Once the onions and garlic have caramelized, add the plum tomatoes, grated ginger, salt, turmeric, coriander stalks, finely chopped green chillies, and chilli powder. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Cook Down to Form Masala Paste: Allow the mixture to simmer, letting the tomatoes, onions, and spices meld together to form a thick, aromatic masala paste. This process will take approximately 5-10 minutes, so be patient and allow the flavors to develop fully.
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Storage Options: Once your masala is ready, you can use it immediately to enhance your favorite dishes. Alternatively, if you prefer to save it for later, allow the masala to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers for freezing. When needed, simply defrost the required amount and enjoy the convenience of this versatile sauce.
Tips
- Serving Suggestions: This Brown Masala Sauce can serve as a base for curries, stews, and many other recipes, allowing for creative culinary exploration.
- Storage: For optimal freshness, consume the sauce within a month of freezing.
Conclusion
This Brown Masala Sauce is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary staple that reflects the warmth and richness of home-cooked meals. Embrace the bold flavors and aromatic spices, and let this sauce transform your cooking experience into something truly special!
