Kala Masala [ Maharashtrian Recipe ]

       Kala Masala :

This is a typically maharashtrian masala and is so named because of its dark colour.

Ingredients :

• Coriander seeds - 3 cups
• Dry coconut pieces - 3 / 4 cup
• Seasame seeds - 1 / 4 cup
• Cumin seeds - 2 table spoon
• Asafoetida - 1 / 4 tsp
• Caraway seeds - 3 tsps [ shahjeera ]
• Cloves - 5 to 6
• Cinnamon - 4 to 5 pieces
• Bay leaves - 5
• Turmeric powder - 1 tsp
• Red chilli powder - 1 / 2 cup
• Salt - as required
• Oil - to saute above ingredients

Method :

Dry roast seasame seeds,saute the asafoetida and remove. In the same kadai add little oil, saute coconut pieces till lightly change in colour. Then remove.saute the rest of the ingredients separately. First grind seasame, coconut and asafoetida separately and then other ingredients. Mix all the powders and turmeric powder, red chilli powder and salt. Store the masala in a jar with an air-tight lid.

[ if this masala is required to be kept for several months, speard a little salt on top of the masala before closing the lid.]