Tandoori masala

Tandoori masala is a flavorful spice blend that is a staple in traditional Indian cooking, particularly for dishes prepared in a tandoor, or clay oven. This aromatic mix typically includes spices such as garam masala, garlic, ginger, onion, and cayenne pepper, all ground together using a mortar and pestle.

One of the most popular dishes featuring tandoori masala is tandoori chicken. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt and tandoori masala before being cooked in the tandoor, resulting in a dish that is both flavorful and vibrant. Other favorites, such as chicken tikka, butter chicken, and paneer tikka, also rely on this spice blend, especially in Punjabi cuisine.

You can prepare tandoori masala at home and store it in airtight jars for up to two months, ensuring you always have some on hand. If making it yourself isn’t your preference, don't worry—tandoori masala is readily available in larger supermarkets and specialty Asian stores. Just keep in mind that the flavor can vary from brand to brand.

Using tandoori masala not only imparts a unique taste but also adds a beautiful color to your dishes, making it a cherished choice in Indian cuisine.