Dhansak Masala Powder Recipe – Homemade Dhansak Masala Powder
Dhansak Masala Powder is an essential spice blend in Parsi cuisine, known for its aromatic and flavorful profile. This homemade version is not only fresh but also brings a unique depth to any dish it is added to. Typically used in making the famous Dhansak curry, this masala is a versatile seasoning that can elevate a variety of recipes, from dals to stews, giving them that signature Parsi taste.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coriander Seeds | 250 grams |
| Dry Red Chillies | 50 grams |
| Long (Cloves) | 50 grams |
| Cardamom | 25 grams |
| Cinnamon | 50 grams |
| Large Cardamom | 25 grams |
| Whole Black Pepper | 25 grams |
| Bay Leaves | 25 grams |
| Star Anise | 25 grams |
| Mustard Seeds | 25 grams |
| Nutmeg Powder | 5 grams |
| Poppy Seeds (Khus Khus) | 25 grams |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 0 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings
- Yields: 200 grams of masala powder
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Parsi Recipes
- Course: Vegetarian
- Diet: No Onion No Garlic (Sattvic)
Instructions
Making this homemade Dhansak Masala Powder is incredibly simple and quick. Start by gathering all the ingredients listed in the table above. Here’s how you can prepare it:
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Grind the Spices: In a mixer grinder, combine all the ingredients — coriander seeds, dry red chillies, cloves (long), cardamom, cinnamon, large cardamom, whole black pepper, bay leaves, star anise, mustard seeds, nutmeg powder, and poppy seeds (khus khus). Grind everything together into a fine powder.
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Storage: Once the masala powder is ready, transfer it into an airtight container. This will help preserve its freshness and keep the flavors intact.
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Usage: This Dhansak Masala Powder can be used in a variety of Parsi dishes, most notably in Dhansak (a Parsi-style lentil curry), or even in other recipes like stews, dals, or vegetable dishes. The spice mix adds an exquisite aroma and rich taste, perfect for vegetarian and sattvic preparations.
Tips for the Best Dhansak Masala
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Roast the Spices (Optional): For an even more intense flavor, you can dry roast the spices before grinding them. Just heat a pan on medium-low heat and gently toast each spice until it releases its natural oils and aroma. Then grind them into powder. This step intensifies the fragrance of the masala.
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Adjust Heat Levels: If you prefer a spicier blend, you can add more dry red chillies or whole black pepper to the mix.
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Storage: Store the masala in a cool, dry place for up to six months. The key to keeping the flavor fresh is ensuring the container is tightly sealed and away from direct sunlight or moisture.
Conclusion
This homemade Dhansak Masala Powder is a must-have in your spice collection if you enjoy Parsi cuisine. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick grinding process, you can create a flavorful and aromatic blend that brings authentic taste to your cooking. Whether you’re preparing a hearty Dhansak curry or experimenting with other dishes, this masala will undoubtedly add a special touch to your meals. Enjoy the warmth and richness it brings to every bite!
