Important Masala Powders of Indian Cuisine

No food is considered as a ‘Complete food’ without masalas. Masalas play a vital role in Indian cuisine. Masala powder or just masala is nothing but a blend of a specific spice or multiple spices. Since ancient times Indian masalas are not only used in Indian cuisine but are also used for the treatment of diseases. For example ‘Turmeric’ which is famous for its anti-inflammatory properties is considered a boon for Indians. India is rich in spices and each of them has a different flavor, color, texture. There are so many spices in India that it becomes difficult to count. Spices also vary from different states to different food. Few spices are not even known by all the Indians as they are rare and only used by professional chefs. For an authentic Indian masala cuisine, adding the right amount of masala is very important.

Having known the importance of masalas it is also a fact that masalas are misunderstood these days. Masala is one such word people mistake it with unhealthy food which is not correct. Each spice or Indian masala has its qualities and brings a different taste when added we just need to know the right amount. Also, good food is always mistaken for too many masalas. It is believed that if you add too many masalas the food is tastier and this is where the concept of unhealthy food starts. The only fact is: A food can be tastier even with the basic masalas in the kitchen.

A mother has magic in her hands with which even the normal food like rice daal brings joy and a smile to our face and Indian masalas are the best friends of every mother. There are some of the masalas that are present in every Indian kitchen and are used in everyday food without which it becomes difficult to even cook.

Take a look at the important Indian masala powders that are essential for all of us.

1. Garam masala: The super masala of the masalas, garam masala is a very important one in Indian cuisine and is a combination of several spices like pepper, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, Indian bay, cloves, cardamom, etc.
2. Panch Phoron masala powder: Panch means five and Phoron means spices. So, as the name suggests this masala powder is a mixture of five spices like nigella seeds, fenugreek seeds, cumin, mustard seeds, and fennel seeds. It adds a nice flavor even if sprinkled on the dry curries.
3. Goda masala: Goda means sweet in Marathi and as the name suggests it gives a sweet flavor because of the stone flower that is present in the masala. It can be used in any dish in which you would want a sweet flavor.
4. Sambhar masala powder: sambar is famous across south India. Just like dal it is a liquid and can be eaten with idli, rice, dosa, etc. Adding sambar powder to sambhar enhances the taste and flavor. It is a combination of dals that is blended well with red dry chilies, fenugreek, coriander seeds
5. Chat masala: India is famous for street foods. Just thinking of Pani-Puri makes our mouth watery hence there is a special masala for the chats. Main ingredients include amchur, black salt, and carom seeds with many others.
6. Rasam masala powder: Another liquid dish famous in south India is the rasam. Rasam is not only tasty but also has many health benefits. Hence this masala is specifically for rasam that contains black pepper, pigeon pea, curry leaves, cumin, coriander, dry red chili.
7. Coriander powder: Almost used in every food it increases the taste and flavor of the food. Can be used in a variety of gravies and curries. The main ingredient is coriander.
8. Kolhapuri masala: Originated from Maharashtra (Kolhapur is a city in Maharashtra). This masala has a spicy flavor with red hot color containing the maximum number of spices and the number is 32. So if you are the one who likes spicy stuff this masala is for you.
9. Turmeric powder: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is the common spice used in every house-hold. Although it doesn’t enhance the flavor so much it is well known for its color and health benefits.
10. Indian Bay (Tej Patta): It is like a leaf and hence the name Patta. It is used as a whole leaf in the rice. It gives an aromatic flavor to the food. It can be removed before eating.

At EFGH we have some great masala powders that will enhance your taste buds and you can enjoy traditional Udupi style food at the comfort of your homes.