Kolhapuri Masala Recipe (Maharashtrian Masala Chutney Powder)
Kolhapuri Masala, a traditional Maharashtrian chutney powder, is an aromatic blend of spices and herbs that adds a fiery, earthy flavor to any dish. Known for its intense heat, this masala is an essential ingredient in many Kolhapuri dishes, offering an authentic touch to the cuisine. This spicy chutney powder is not for the faint-hearted, but for those who appreciate bold and robust flavors, it is a treasure. Whether you are preparing a curry or a sabji, this masala brings a distinctive heat and a complex flavor profile, making it indispensable in any Maharashtrian kitchen.
Kolhapuri cuisine is famous for its spicy and flavorful dishes, and this masala is a key component that elevates the taste of the dishes. It can be used to add zing to vegetables, meats, curries, or even sprinkled on rice for an extra kick.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 1 cup |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 tablespoon |
| Dessicated Coconut | 1/2 cup |
| Sesame seeds (Til) | 1 tablespoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1/2 inch |
| Poppy seeds | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fennel seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
Wet Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1, roughly chopped |
| Garlic | 10 cloves |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | Small bunch |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Time: 0 mins
Cooking Time: 30 mins
Instructions
To begin making the Kolhapuri Masala Recipe, which is a staple in Maharashtrian cuisine, gather and prepare all the ingredients. Start with roasting the dry ingredients in a heavy-bottomed pan. Over medium heat, roast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, dessicated coconut, sesame seeds, whole black peppercorns, cinnamon stick, poppy seeds, methi seeds, and fennel seeds. Roast until the spices release an aromatic fragrance and the coconut turns golden brown. Once done, remove from the heat and transfer the roasted spices to another bowl, setting them aside to cool.
In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and lightly browned. Once the onions and garlic are cooked to perfection, remove from the heat and let them cool slightly.
Once the roasted spices and the sautéed onion-garlic mixture have cooled down, transfer everything to a blender. Add the fresh coriander leaves and red chili powder. Blend the ingredients together until you have a smooth paste.
Taste the mixture and adjust the salt and spices according to your preference. The Kolhapuri Masala is now ready to be used in a variety of curry dishes or vegetable preparations. If you’re making a vegetable curry, adding tomato puree or tamarind water will help balance the flavors and the heat of the masala.
This Kolhapuri Masala can be stored in an airtight container for several days. It’s versatile and can be used to make dishes like Menthe Hittu (Roasted Fenugreek Chutney Powder) and even in a Quick and Healthy Pav Bhaji.
Allergen Information:
- Contains Sesame Seeds – May cause allergic reactions for those sensitive to sesame.
- Contains Coconut – May cause allergic reactions for individuals with coconut allergies.
- Contains Garlic – People with garlic sensitivities should adjust the quantity.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian-Friendly
- Gluten-Free – This recipe does not contain any gluten-based ingredients.
- Dairy-Free – This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Vegan-Friendly – No animal products are used in this recipe.
Advice:
- If you prefer a milder version of this masala, reduce the amount of red chili powder or use a milder variety of chili.
- The freshness of the coriander leaves adds a vibrant touch to the chutney powder. Be sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- To make it even spicier, you can add extra green chilies while blending the ingredients.
Conclusion:
The Kolhapuri Masala Recipe is an essential part of Maharashtrian cuisine, known for its bold, fiery, and earthy flavors. Its versatility allows it to complement a variety of dishes, from vegetables and curries to rice and snacks. By making your own batch of this masala, you can bring the authentic taste of Kolhapur into your home, enhancing your cooking with a signature spice blend that will take your meals to the next level. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or just exploring the rich flavors of Maharashtrian food, this Kolhapuri masala is a must-try!
