Chaat masala is a popular Indian spice blend used to add flavor to various street foods, snacks, and dishes. Here's a simple recipe to make chaat masala at home:
*Ingredients:*
- 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon amchur powder (dried mango powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black salt (kala namak)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
*Instructions:*
1. Dry roast coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and fennel seeds in a pan over low heat until fragrant.
2. Grind the roasted spices into a fine powder.
3. Mix in amchur powder, garam masala powder, cayenne pepper (if using), black salt, and black pepper.
4. Add citric acid (if using) and mix well.
5. Store the chaat masala in an airtight container.
*Tips and Variations:*
- Adjust the proportions of spices to suit your taste.
- Add other spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or cloves for unique flavor profiles.
- Use whole spices instead of ground spices for more intense flavor.
- For a smoky flavor, dry roast the spices over an open flame.
*Usage:*
Sprinkle chaat masala on:
- Street foods like chaat, kebabs, and tikkas
- Fresh fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and watermelons
- Vegetable dishes like raita, salads, and roasted vegetables
- Snacks like samosas, kachoris, and pakoras
- Indian flatbreads like naan, puri, and paratha
*Chaat Masala Variations:*
- Delhi-style: Add more amchur powder and black salt.
- Mumbai-style: Add more cumin seeds and coriander seeds.
- Hyderabadi-style: Add cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
Enjoy your homemade chaat masala!