Chana Masala Powder

This aromatic, flavourful spice blend will change your chana masala curry forever! Add a spoonful of this masala powder when cooking and taste the difference!

Chana Masala Powder

2 sticks cinnamon, about 2 inches long, broken into small pieces
2 tbsp each: green cardamom, cloves
2 star anise
2 tbsp each: cumin seeds, coriander seeds
1 tsp each: black peppercorn, fennel seeds
6 dried hot red chilies
½ tsp ajwain (carom seeds), optional
½ cup dried powdered pomegranate seeds
1 tbsp dried ground ginger
¼ cup dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi)
1 tsp black salt
Warm a large frying pan over medium heat. Add cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, star anise, cumin, coriander, black pepper, fennel, red chilies and ajwain (if using). Toast until darker in colour and aromatic, about 4 min.
Cool slightly and transfer to the jar of a blender or spice grinder. Powder coarsely, then add powdered pomegranate seeds, ground ginger, fenugreek leaves and black salt. Powder again until a fine mixture is achieved. Transfer to a clean dry jar and reserve.