indian food masala recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best indian food masala recipe

As a mom who loves to cook, I have always been fascinated by the rich and vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. One of my favorite dishes to make is Masala, a fragrant and flavorful curry that is a staple in many Indian households.

Masala is more than just a dish; it is a celebration of spices and aromas that transport you to the streets of India with every bite. My family absolutely loves this recipe, and it has become a regular on our dinner table.

It is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering. The best part is that it is packed with healthy ingredients like vegetables, lean proteins, and a variety of spices that have numerous health benefits.

The key to a great Masala lies in the blend of spices, which includes cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. These spices not only add depth of flavor but also have anti-inflammatory properties and aid in digestion.

I love how versatile this dish is; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a go-to recipe for any meal.

Indian Food Masala Recipe

4.8 from 1467 votes

This authentic Indian Food Masala Recipe is a delightful blend of spices and aromas. It is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 00 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 300 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Masala Paste

1 large onion, finely chopped
2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
1 tbsp ginger, grated
1 tbsp garlic, grated
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp coriander seeds
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
1 tsp garam masala powder
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Curry

500g chicken, cut into pieces
1 cup water
1 cup yogurt
1 cup chopped spinach

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2Add the cumin seeds and coriander seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
3Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4This should take about 5 minutes.
5Add the grated ginger and garlic to the saucepan.
6Sauté for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
7Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices.
8This should take about 5 minutes.
9Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt to the saucepan.
10Stir well to combine all the spices with the onion and tomato mixture.
11Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
12Add the chicken pieces to the saucepan and stir well to coat them with the spice mixture.
13Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
14Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
15Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
16Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
17Stir in the yogurt and chopped spinach.
18Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the yogurt is well incorporated.
19Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Saucepan
Spatula
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 300 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

You can substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.

Watch Video Of How Indian Food Masala Recipe Works

This Indian food masala recipe is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. It is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a weeknight dinner.

The rich blend of spices and the tender, flavorful chicken make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it is easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little water to restore the moisture and simmer gently until heated through.

Serve it with naan or rice for a complete meal. This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion and works well for family gatherings.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Indian Food Masala

What is the key to a great Masala?

The key to a great Masala lies in the blend of spices. Using fresh spices and roasting them lightly before grinding can enhance the flavor. Also, cooking the spices in oil until fragrant before adding other ingredients helps to release their flavors.

Can I make Masala without onions and garlic?

While onions and garlic are traditional ingredients in Masala, you can make a variation without them. You can use onion powder and garlic powder as substitutes, or you can omit them altogether and add more vegetables or spices to enhance the flavor.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can definitely use other proteins instead of chicken. Paneer, tofu, or even mixed vegetables work well in this recipe. The cooking time may vary depending on the protein you choose, so adjust accordingly.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make this recipe healthier, you can use lean proteins like chicken breast or tofu. You can also reduce the amount of oil used and add more vegetables. Using whole wheat flour for the dough or adding more spinach can also boost the nutritional content.

Can I freeze the Masala for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the Masala for later use. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When reheating, add a little water to restore the moisture and simmer gently until heated through.

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