How To Make Masala

A Masala is the name for a spice mix in Indian food. In this step by step guide chef Angela Malik shows you how to make an easy masala base which can be used in many Indian dishes. Enlarge

How To Make Masala

A Masala is the name for a spice mix in Indian food. In this step by step guide chef Angela Malik shows you how to make an easy masala base which can be used in many Indian dishes.

Prep:
10m
Cook:
30m
Total:
40m
Serves:
2

Ingredients

  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 200 g chopped tomatoes
  • 5 tbsp rapeseed oil
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3 cloves
  • 1 black cardamon
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tbsp ginger paste
  • 1 tbsp garlic paste
  • 100 ml water

Step 1: Brown the Onions

Heat a pan with 3 tbsp rapeseed oil to a high heat. Add 2 chopped medium onions. Keep the temperature hot and brown the onions. Add another 2 tbsp rapeseed oil after 3 minutes. The onions should take around 10 minutes to brown.

Step 2: Add the Spices

Once the onions are brown, add 1 cinnamon stick, 3 cloves, 1 black cardamon and 2 bay leaves. Keep the temperature high, add 2 tbsp ginger paste and 1 tbsp garlic paste. Cook until you feel the ginger is starting to stick to the pan.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Deglaze

Add the 200g chopped tomatoes. Turn the heat down and add 100ml water. This should deglaze the pan and release extra flavour. Reduce for around 15 minutes until the sauce has a thick consistency. You can now use your masala base to make a whole host of curries.