Craving a fiery burst of flavor that's quick, easy, and utterly delicious? Then look no further than this Spicy Masala Chili recipe, a vibrant take on a Maharashtrian classic. Forget complicated spice blends and lengthy cooking times; this recipe delivers intense, authentic chili flavor in minutes, perfect for a weeknight meal or a fiery appetizer. The secret lies in a perfectly balanced blend of readily available spices that create a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is surprisingly adaptable – feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking!
This simple yet satisfying dish offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, from the crisp crunch of the chilies to the rich, aromatic spices. Ready to experience the explosive flavors of this Maharashtrian-inspired chili? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and create this culinary masterpiece together!
Tools Needed
- Cotton cloth
- Mortar and pestle (or mixer)
- Pan
Ingredients
- Green chilies
- Fenugreek
- Coriander
- Mustard seeds
- Cumin seeds
- Ginger
- Tamarind
- Jaggery
- Salt
- Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Oil
- Asafoetida (hing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chili and Ingredients
- Remove stems from green chilies. Wash thoroughly and wipe clean with a cotton cloth.
- Cut chilies into two parts and make a slit in the middle.
- Soak tamarind and jaggery together with a little water for 10-15 minutes.
Step 2. Roast and Grind the Spices
- Roast mustard seeds, cumin seeds, ginger, coriander, and fenugreek together until fragrant.
- Grind the roasted spices into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle (or mixer).
Step 3. Sauté and Temper the Chilies
- Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida, turmeric powder, and chopped chilies. Fry for 1-2 minutes.
- Add salt and fry the chilies until slightly soft.
Step 4. Simmer and Combine for the Masala
- Add the ground spice powder and fry for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the tamarind and jaggery water, stir to combine, and cook until it forms a paste.
Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe
Tips
- Wiping the chilies with a cotton cloth helps remove excess water.
- You can use a mixer grinder instead of a mortar and pestle.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Reduce the amount of green chilies or add less chili powder to make it milder. For extra heat, add more chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
2. What can I serve this chili with?
This Masala Chili is fantastic as a side dish with rice, roti, or naan. It also makes a great topping for tacos or as a filling for samosas.
This Spicy Masala Chili recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients and bold flavors. Enjoy the satisfying heat and aromatic spices that transport you to the heart of Maharashtra with every bite. Now go forth and create your own fiery culinary masterpiece!