Here is the recipe of authentic Bengali Bhaja Masala or roasted spice mix used in Jhal muri, Fuchka, Chats, Dahi Vada etc.
Bhaja Masala is a special flavorful roasted spice powder which is kind of a backbone of Bengali cuisine. This special spice powder is prepared by dry roasting cumin, coriander, dry red chillies, garam masala etc. to perfection and then ground into a coarse spice powder. Bhaja masala is a very common roasted spice powder in a Bengali household kitchen, it tastes so flavorful and elevates the taste of every dish in which its used. Bhaja Masala is commonly used in making Jhal muri, Fuchka, Ghugni, Aloo Dum, Dahi Vada, Chats etc.. You can store this spice powder in an airtight container for 2 to 3 weeks. I frequently use Bhaja Masala in salad dressings and it tastes so unique. Try this authentic recipe of Bhaja Masala and elevate your dishes to the next level.
HOW TO MAKE BENGALI BHAJA MASALA (STEP BY STEP RECIPE)
- Ingredients required for making the Bhaja Masala or roasted spice powder are :
- Coriander Seeds – 1.5 tsp
- Cumin Seeds – 1 tsp
- Bay Leaf – 1
- Dry Red Chillies – 4
- Cinnamon Stick – 1.5 inch
- Cardamom – 6
- Cloves (Laung) – 5
2. Heat a pan and then add the coriander seeds. Start roasting the coriander seeds on medium flame till it starts to release aroma. Then, add the cumin seeds and keep roasting cumin and coriander seeds together. After few seconds, you will find your kitchen will be filled with a nice aroma of cumin and coriander seeds.
That is the moment to add the dry red chillies and keep roasting till cumin seeds, coriander seeds and the chillies are browned but not burnt. Now, these spices are nicely roasted so take these out on a plate.
3. In the same pan, dry roast bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom and cloves. When the spices are nicely roasted, take these out on a plate. Allow the spices to cool down completely.
4. When the spices have cooled down, take the spices in a grinder jar and grind the spices into a coarse powder.
Voila, authentic Bengali Bhaja Masala is ready!!
HOW TO MAKE BENGALI BHAJA MASALA – RECIPE VIDEO
