Authentic Chaat Masala Recipe: Make Your Own Tangy Spice Mix at Home

There are many different spice mixes to add to Indian street food, but none that bring as much zing to all sorts of foods as chaat masala does. It’s tangy, spicy, salty, and just a little bit sweet and flavorful enough to make you want to add it to anything you can think of. Whether it’s fruit, salad, chaats, or anything in between, chaat masala is a vital part of every Indian household pantry. In the blog post, we hope to give you everything you need to know about chaat masala, including what’s in it, how to make it, how to use it, and where to buy it online in India.

What Is Chaat Masala?

Chaat masala is a classic Indian spice blend made from assorted dried spices that typically contain amchur (dried mango powder), black salt, cumin, coriander, and asafoetida (hing). It is most well-known as the spice sprinkled on many street snacks like bhel puri, sev puri, fruit chaat, chaat papdi, and it i,s even used sprinkled over boiled eggs, parathas, and buttermilk.

It has a unique, tangy and slightly funky flavor from the black salt and dried mango powder that distinguishes it from most other Indian spice blends.

The 5 Essential Chaat Masala Ingredients

Chaat masalas vary in recipes, but typically include five ingredients as their foundation:

• Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) adds sourness.
• Kala Namak (Black Salt) contributes notable umami and sulfur notes.
• Roasted Cumin Powder is the earthy and smoky base flavor.
• Coriander Powder adds citrusy warmth that the palate can only describe as mild.
• Asafoetida (Hing) has been found, even in a pinch, to provide an aroma-enhancing profile and aid in digestion.

Black pepper, ajwain, dried ginger, and mint powder could all be additions, but these five provide a foundation.

How To Make Chaat Masala (In 3 Simple Steps)

It's easy to make chaat masala at home and here is a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp cumin seeds
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 2 tbsp amchur (dry mango powder)
• 1 tbsp kala namak (black salt)
• ¼ tsp asafoetida (hing)

Instructions:

Step 1: Dry roast

Dry roast the cumin and coriander seeds over medium heat until they smell aromatic (2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Grind

After cooling, grind the roasted spices to a powder with a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.

Step 3: Mix Everything

In a bowl, mix the ground spices with amchur, kala namak, and hing. Store in an airtight container.

That’s it! You now have a homemade chaat masala that rivals store-bought versions.

What Is The Difference Between Chaat Masala And Garam Masala?

Though both are Indian spice mixes, they serve very different purposes.

So while garam masala is used to cook, chaat masala is used to finish a dish.

Chaat Masala Substitute

Ran out of chaat masala? No problem! 

• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp black salt
• ¼ tsp regular salt
• A little black pepper and chili powder to taste

Combine all those into your dish, and you'll have a similar heat. The flavor won't be exact, but it's close enough when you need it!

How To Store Chaat Masala

To maintain the freshness of your chaat masala:

• Store it in a dry airtight glass jar
• Keep it away from direct sunlight or moisture
• Always use a dry spoon

If stored properly. It can last up to 6 months

How To Use Chaat Masala

Chaat masala is extremely versatile. Here are some ways to use it: 

• Sprinkle on fruits (especially papaya, pineapple, and watermelon).
• Add to chaats and simple snacks (like bhel puri, aloo chaat, or samosas).
• Mix into buttermilk or lemonade for a tangy twist!
• Add a little pinch of boiled eggs or grilled corn.
• Use in salads for a desi flavor lift. 

Ultimately, it is my secret weapon for elevating everyday food.

Chaat Masala Recipe 

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp cumin seeds
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 2 tbsp amchur powder
• 1 tbsp black salt
• ¼ tsp asafoetida

Instructions:

1. Roast cumin and coriander seeds
2. Let them cool and grind.
3. Mix with amchur, black salt, and hing
4. Store airtight. Use as needed.

Where to Buy Chaat Masala Online

If you want to buy the best chaat masala online, look no further than Hathi Chaat Masala! Hathi is a well-known and established brand across India that produces authentic, high-quality spices. Whether you are a home cook or a street food lover, you can replicate the taste of real Indian street food with just a sprinkle of Hathi Chaat Masala.

Why Use Hathi Chaat Masala?

• Tasty & Flavorful: Adds a nice tangy-spicy flavor to chaats and snacks. & fruits.
• High Quality: Made of handpicked spices sourced from the best farms.
• Natural & Pure: No preservatives, no artificial colours—just real taste.

Shop now and bring the essence of street food home with Hathi Masala!

Conclusion

If you enjoy Indian street food or food with strong flavors, there is no way you can not know how to use a good chaat masala recipe. This tangy seasoning mix enhances flavor and improves digestion! You can either make this at home or buy a packet from a reputable brand like Hathi Masala. Either way, you're in for a flavorful journey!

FAQs

Is chaat masala healthy?

Yes, in moderation. Chaat masala typically has digestive spices like cumin, hing, and black salt which are beneficial to digestion

Can I use chaat masala in curries?

It is not common to use while cooking curries, but you could sprinkle it at the end to add some flavor. 

Is chaat masala spicy?

Not really, more tangy and salty than spicy. It could add a little chili powder but isn't spicy overall.

Can I skip the hing in chaat masala?

Yes. Hing adds a unique aroma and also is good for digestion, but other than that it isn't essential. You can skip it. 

How long can I store homemade chaat masala?

It should last about 6 months stored in an airtight container in a cool and dry place.