Spices are the most important ingredient in any dish. A particular spice can make or break the flavour. Masalas play a major role in our cuisines especially while cooking chicken. Most ladies add their own blend of chicken masala which is passed on to them by their ancestors. Chicken masala powder not only enhances the taste of the dish but makes the gravy thicker and faster. Chicken masala can also be used to make other meat preparations or in some instances, you can also add it to the mushroom curry, dum aloo, matar paneer etc. Although there are readymade masalas available nowadays nothing can beat the homemade chicken masala offers the right amount of flavour and never misses to hit the spot. Chicken masala also adds colour to the dish giving it a pleasing appearance and an aesthetic aroma. The ingredients used to make chicken masala are readily available. Everything lies in the process of making it. No chicken dish is complete without homemade chicken powder. You can compromise with any ingredient but chicken without chicken masala is aroma less. The masala is made with so many Indian spices that are known for their aroma and flavours. Another advantage of homemade chicken masala is that it is without preservatives. You can use it as much as you want without worrying about any health issues.
Here's how you can make chicken masala at home-
Ingredients
1. 1 tsp oil
2. 1/2 cup coriander seeds
3. 4 red chillies
4. 4 Kashmiri red chillies
5. 4 garlic
6. 1 tbsp black pepper
7. 2 tbsp cumin seeds
8. 3 tbsp fennel seeds
9. 1 tbsp poppy seeds
10. 10 cloves
11. 4 cinnamon sticks, 1/2 inch
12. 5 cardamom
13. 1-star anise
14. 1 big bay leaf
15. 2 japathiri
16. 1 kasoori methi
Method-
1. In a pan add some oil and roast all the ingredients together.
2. Roast until they are golden and aromatic.
3. After fully cooling the spices, add them to a mixer jar.
4. Grind it to make a semi-fine powder.
5. Place on a plate and allow to cool.
6. Then keep it in an airtight container.
Tips
1. Always allow cooling before grinding; else, the vapour will make the powder wet.
2. It will last around two months at room temperature.
3. Always use a dry spoon while handling.
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