WHAT MASALA MEANS
LEARN WHAT MASALA MEANS AND WHY IT MATTERS.
Discover what masala means. Masala is different to spice. It is a word thrown about frequently in Indian regional kitchens and households. Translated simple, masala means spice. But it also means “spice blend” and “spicy” and it can also refer to an actual dish. Watch the video tutorial to find out why understanding masala matters in any kitchen. Or read my answers to FAQs on masala below.
WHAT IS MASALA
CONCEPT Q&A’s
What does masala mean?
Masala means spice. It means spice blend. It can also refer to a certain curry as a whole dish. But in its broadest sense, masala refers to the culmination of spices, produce, and techniques we use when cooking to achieve a specific taste, health benefit, and cultural representation through a single dish.
Is masala an Indian thing?
No. All traditional food cultures are built-in with their own concepts that allow cooks to prepare thoughtful and meaningful food. Masala is a little different because of the depth it goes into with spices. And because the health benefits of masala are formalised within the traditional Indian medical framework of ayurveda.
Is masala the same thing as spices?
Not really. Spices are referring to the individual aromatic components within any dish. Masala refers to the thinking behind the flavours. I cook with a great handle on masala can make food to fix a cold, a broken heart, or to being a long-passed loved one back into the kitchen as memory.
How can I learn how to use and understand masala?
I have a lot of information on my channel, and in my books to help anyone who is interested to understand what masala means. Other Indian regional chefs are also wonderful to read, watch, and eat from in order to get a broad feel for how to use taste meaningfully. Tune in to Helly Raichura, Asma Khan, and Mischa Tropp—they’re some of my favourites.
MORE SPICE PROFILES
