Description
Tandoori Masala is a flavorful spice blend that is primarily used in Indian cuisine, particularly for dishes prepared in a tandoor, a traditional clay oven. It is a versatile mixture of spices and herbs that adds a distinct smoky, tangy, and mildly spicy flavor to various meats, poultry, and vegetables. The exact composition of Tandoori Masala can vary based on personal preferences and regional variations, but it typically includes a combination of spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, ginger, garlic, fenugreek, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and sometimes red chili powder for added heat. These spices are carefully blended to create a well-rounded flavor profile that enhances the taste of dishes cooked in a tandoor or grilled. Tandoori Masala is known for its aromatic and smoky aroma. The combination of spices, particularly the smoky notes from paprika and the earthiness of cumin and coriander, gives the masala a distinctive scent that evokes the flavors of traditional tandoor cooking. To use Tandoori Masala, it is typically mixed with yogurt, lemon juice, or oil to create a marinade for meats or vegetables. The marinade helps tenderize the proteins and allows the flavors of the masala to penetrate the ingredients. The marinated food is then traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven or can be grilled, roasted, or cooked on a stovetop grill.
