Chettinad Masala Powder Recipe
Chettinad Masala Powder is a rich, aromatic, and versatile spice blend originating from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu, India. This spice mix is a cornerstone of Chettinad cuisine, known for its bold and complex flavors. Perfect for enhancing curries, stir-fries, or even marinades, this recipe will guide you through crafting this fragrant masala at home. Store it in an airtight container, and enjoy its robust flavors for months.
Recipe Details
Cuisine: Chettinad
Course: Spice Blend
Diet: Vegetarian
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 1 batch (approximately 1 cup)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coriander Seeds (Dhania) | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chilies | 6 pieces |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Star Anise | 1 piece |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 2 pods |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Cloves (Laung) | 3 pieces |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 6 pieces |
| Fenugreek Seeds (Methi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Poppy Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Mace (Javitri) | 1/2 inch |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 52 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Instructions
Follow these steps to make Chettinad Masala Powder at home:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or pan on low-medium heat to ensure the spices toast evenly without burning. |
| 2 | Add the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, dry red chilies, ajwain, star anise, cardamom, cinnamon stick, cloves, fennel seeds, black peppercorns, fenugreek seeds, poppy seeds, and mace. |
| 3 | Dry roast the spices gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring continuously until they release a fragrant aroma and turn slightly golden. |
| 4 | Turn off the heat and transfer the roasted spices to a plate to cool completely. |
| 5 | Once the spices reach room temperature, add them to a blender or spice grinder. Blend into a fine powder. |
| 6 | Store the ground Chettinad Masala Powder in a clean, airtight container. |
| 7 | Use as needed in your favorite Chettinad recipes like curries, gravies, or rice dishes. The spice mix stays fresh for up to 3-4 months when stored properly. |
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chettinad Masala Powder
- Roast Gradually: Keep the heat low to prevent the spices from burning, as this can make the masala bitter.
- Cool Thoroughly: Ensure the roasted spices cool completely before grinding; this prevents moisture from affecting the powder’s texture.
- Storage Tip: Use a moisture-free, airtight container to retain the aroma and freshness for longer.
How to Use Chettinad Masala Powder
- Curries: Add 1-2 teaspoons to vegetarian or non-vegetarian curries for an authentic Chettinad flavor.
- Marinades: Mix it with yogurt, lemon juice, and salt for a delicious marinade for meats or vegetables.
- Stir-Fries: Sprinkle a pinch over roasted vegetables or stir-fries to elevate the taste.
Enjoy the bold and complex flavors of Chettinad Masala Powder in your favorite dishes!
