Homemade Chhole/Chana Masala Powder

(Makes ~½ cup | Shelf life: 3 months in an airtight jar)

Ingredients

Whole Spices:

- 2 tbsp coriander seeds

- 1 tbsp cumin seeds

- 1 tsp black peppercorns

- 1 tsp dry pomegranate seeds (anardana)(for tanginess)

- 1 tsp black cardamom (badi elaichi) seeds(only the seeds, discard pods)

- 1 tsp cloves

- 1-inch cinnamon stick

- 1 tsp dry mango powder (amchur)(if you skip anardana)

- 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

- 2-3 dried red chilies (adjust to heat preference)

- 1 tsp black salt (kala namak)(optional, for chaat-like tang)

Ground Spices (pre-powdered):

- 1 tbsp turmeric powder

- 1 tbsp red chili powder

Step-by-Step Method

1. Dry Roast Whole Spices

1. Heat a pan on low flame. Add coriander seeds, cumin, black peppercorns, anardana, black cardamom seeds, cloves, cinnamon, and dried red chilies.

2. Roast for 3-4 minutes until fragrant (no oil needed). Stir constantly to avoid burning.

3. Turn off heat, add kasuri methi, and let the mixture cool completely.

2. Grind to a Fine Powder

1. Transfer the roasted spices to a blender or spice grinder.

2. Add black salt (if using) and blend to a fine powder.

3. Sieve the powder to remove any coarse bits (optional).

3. Mix Pre-Powdered Spices

1. In a bowl, mix the freshly ground spice blend with turmeric powder and red chili powder.

2. Store in an airtight container away from sunlight.

How to Use This Chole Masala

- For 1 cup chickpeas, use 1.5 tsp of this masala during cooking.

- Add ½ tsp amchur while simmering if you skipped anardana.

- For smoky flavor, temper with a pinch of hing (asafoetida) in hot ghee.

*Key Notes*

🔥 Adjust Heat: Reduce red chilies for a milder version.

🌿 Freshness: For best flavor, roast and grind in small batches.

🍋 Extra Tang: Add a squeeze of lemon before serving.

This homemade blend tastes even better than store-bought MDH because it’s fresher and free from additives. Use it in chana masala, chole bhature, or even aloo-chana curry!

Want a quick chana masala recipe using this blend? Let me know! 😊

#tasteunfold