How To Make Homemade Kashmiri Masala/Spice Mix Recipe
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 2
Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
The vibrant and aromatic flavors of Kashmiri cuisine are a delight to the senses, and at the heart of many traditional Kashmiri dishes lies the Kashmiri Masala or spice mix. This homemade version of the Kashmiri Masala is easy to prepare and brings the rich depth of Indian spices to your cooking. Packed with earthy flavors and a hint of heat from the Kashmiri red chili powder, this spice mix is the perfect addition to curries, rice dishes, and even stews, making it an essential pantry item for lovers of authentic Indian flavors. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their cooking with a homemade, aromatic masala mix.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
| Cardamom pods/seeds (Elaichi) | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
| Coriander seeds (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1 teaspoon |
| Fennel seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon stick (Dalchini) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cloves (Laung) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay leaves (Tej Patta) | 2 leaves |
| Nutmeg – broken | 1 piece |
| Whole turmeric | 3 pieces |
| Garlic powder | 2-1/2 teaspoons |
| Dry ginger powder | 2-1/2 teaspoons |
| Kashmiri red chili powder | 2 teaspoons |
Instructions
-
Prepare Your Ingredients:
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out. Ensure everything is ready to go before you begin the roasting process. -
Roast the Whole Spices:
Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cardamom pods, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, bay leaves, nutmeg, and whole turmeric to the skillet. Roast these whole spices on a low to medium heat. As they roast, they will begin to release their fragrant aromas, which is a sign that they are cooking properly. Continue stirring the spices continuously with a wooden spoon to avoid burning and ensure even roasting. -
Cool the Spices:
Once the spices have been roasted to release their oils and aromas, remove the skillet from the heat and let the spices cool down completely. This step is crucial to prevent overheating when grinding them. -
Grind the Spices:
After the roasted spices have cooled, transfer them to a dry grinder. Add the garlic powder, dry ginger powder, and Kashmiri red chili powder to the grinder. Grind the mixture until you achieve a fine powder. Be sure to grind the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the spices are well-blended and have a smooth texture. -
Storage:
Once the Kashmiri masala has been ground into a fine powder, transfer it to an airtight container. Store the masala in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For longer shelf life, you can freeze the spice mix. This will help preserve its potency and freshness for an extended period.
Tips for the Best Kashmiri Masala
- Roasting the Spices: Roasting the whole spices is key to unlocking their flavors. Ensure that you roast the spices on low to medium heat, as high heat can cause them to burn and lose their aromatic qualities.
- Grind Fresh: For the best flavor, always grind the spices fresh when you need them. Pre-ground spices tend to lose their potency over time, whereas freshly ground spices will give your dishes a more intense flavor.
- Use in Dishes: This homemade Kashmiri masala works beautifully in a variety of Indian dishes, including curries, rice, and even marinades for meats. The addition of Kashmiri red chili powder gives the mix a vibrant color and a mild heat that is characteristic of Kashmiri cuisine.
This homemade Kashmiri masala spice mix will elevate your cooking with its fragrant, bold flavors. With this versatile blend in your pantry, you’ll be ready to infuse your meals with authentic Kashmiri flavors in no time!
