The Secret Spice Blend for Flavorful Kebabs
Kababs hold a special place in desi cuisine. Their aromatic and juicy texture makes them an irresistible snack or appetizer. But what really elevates simple kebabs to a drool-worthy dish is the magical masala.
Kabab masala is a special blend of spices that infuses the meat or vegetables with an explosive flavor. Once you get the ratio of spices right, you can marinate even simple ingredients like paneer or potatoes to make restaurant-style tikka.
So let’s unlock the secret spice mix that sets a kabab apart. Read on to learn how to make flavorful kabab masala recipe at home with this easy recipe!
Ingredients to Make Kabab Masala
Before diving into the method, let’s look at the ingredients you’ll need:
Whole Spices
- Cinnamon Stick (Kabab Masala Recipe)
- Green Cardamoms
- Cloves
- Black Peppercorns
- Coriander Seeds
Ground Spices
- Coriander Powder
- Cumin Powder
- Red Chili Powder
- Turmeric Powder
- Garam Masala Powder
Flavor Enhancers
- Dried Fenugreek Leaves (Kabab Masala Recipe)
- Dry Ginger Powder
- Dry Mango Powder
- Kabab Masala Recipe Powder
- Lemon Juice
- Oil
While this looks like a long list, they are mostly staple ingredients you likely have in your pantry. You can also adjust spices based on your preference for heat or aromatics.
Now let’s get mixing!
Step-by-Step Method to Make Kabab Masala
Step 1 – Dry Roast the Whole Spices
Start by dry roasting cinnamon stick, green cardamoms, cloves, black peppercorns and coriander seeds in a skillet. Roast on low heat for 2 minutes until fragrant. Then grind the roasted spices into a powder.
Step 2 – Mix with Remaining Ground Spices
Next, simply mix the freshly ground roasted spices with the remaining ground spices like coriander powder, red chili powder, cumin powder etc.
Step 3 – Add the Flavor Boosters
Now pour in the flavor boosters – kabab masala recipe powder, dried fenugreek leaves, dry ginger powder, dry mango powder and salt. Adjust quantities according to taste. You can also add crushed kasuri methi for a deeper flavor.
Step 4 – Drizzle Oil and Lemon Juice
Finally, drizzle some oil and squeeze half a lemon juice. The oil amplifies the flavor while the lemon lifts it up.
And your aromatic kabab masala is ready!
Before using it in a marinade, run it in a blender again to pulverize any chunks for a smooth powdery texture. Now let’s put it to use in juicy chicken tikka!
Using Kabab Masala in Chicken Tikka Recipe
Marinating chicken with this homemade kabab masala transforms it into succulent, flavor-loaded tikka in just minutes!
Ingredients:
- Chicken Breast Pieces – 500gms
- Hung Curd – 1 cup
- Kabab Masala Recipe – 3 tbsp
- Ginger Garlic Paste – 1 tbsp
- Butter – 2 tbsp
- Lime Juice – 2 tbsp
- Salt to taste
- Oil for basting
Steps:
- Prick chicken pieces with a fork.
- To the curd, add kabab masala, ginger garlic paste, butter, salt and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Add chicken and coat well with masala curd.
- Cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
- Thread chicken onto skewers.
- Grill on hot tawa or barbecue, while basting with oil/butter.
In just 30 minutes, you’ll be sinking your teeth into smoky, spice-loaded chicken tikka brimming with flavor!
You can use this same kabab masala to marinate paneer, potatoes, fish or lamb too. Now that you know the secret recipe, remix it into any kebab and wow your guests!
Serving Ideas for Kabab Masala Dishes
While tandoori chicken and paneer tikka make popular kabab recipes, here are more creative ways to serve up dishes with this spice blend:
Kabab Masala Potato Wedges
Marinate potato wedges in kabab masala yogurt, grill with some chaat masala sprinkled on top.
Kabab Masala Paneer Kofta
Stuff spiced paneer balls with raisins, bake and serve with mint chutney.
Kabab Masala Salmon
Coat salmon fillets with this spicy mix, pan fry till crisp.
Kabab Masala Fried Rice
Stir fry rice with chicken tikka pieces, veggies and schezwan sauce.
Kabab Masala Mini Pizzas
Top mini baguette breads with cheesy chicken tikka, bake and serve.
So unleash your inner chef, and remix the kabab masala recipe into appetizers, mains, snacks or sides!
Tips for Perfecting the Kabab Masala
While the simplicity of dry spices is what makes kabab masala a winner, here are some pointers:
- Use fresh ground spices for maximum flavor
- Adjust the chili powder as per your heat preference
- Let meat/paneer marinate for 2-3 hours minimum for the best result
- Always grill, bake or pan fry – never steam or boil kabab items
- Baste tikkas with butter/oil while cooking for juicy texture
Once you master this basic kabab masala, you can improvise with additions like:
- Dry fruits like almonds or cashews
- Poppy seeds (khus khus) or melon seeds (magaz)
- Grated coconut or coconut milk powder
- Yogurt or cheese to make a thick marinade paste
Unleash your creativity, and come up with signature kabab masala mixes unique to your kitchen!
FAQs on Kabab Masala Recipe
Confused about how long to marinate or right cooking techniques? Here are some common queries on making flawless kabab dishes:
How long should I marinate kababs?
Kabab Masala Recipe ideally needs 2-3 hours to tenderize meat and let spices seep in fully. Marinate overnight for best flavor.
What’s the best oil to baste while cooking kababs?
Ghee or butter are the best to baste tikkas, kebabs while grilling for rich taste.
Can I use this spice mix for vegetarian kababs?
Yes, potatoes, paneer and soya chunks make excellent veg kabab options with this recipe.
What sides go well with kabab entrees?
Mint chutney, tandoori roti, naan and onion salad are perfect companions for tikkas and kebabs.
How long does the kabab masala powder last?
Store excess powder in an airtight jar away from heat/sunlight for 2-3 months. Refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Conclusion
Recreating the signature kabab flavors at home is now easy with this secret kabab masala recipe! With the right technique, cuts of meat and a power packed marinade, you can pull off restaurant-style starters and tikkas effortlessly.
Improvise the spice mix to suit your taste and dietary needs. Meat lovers can amp up the heat and smokiness, while vegetarians can add nuts or coconut.
And that’s not all – blend this aromatic powder into dips, tacos, biryanis, fried rice or even scrambled eggs for a flavor punch!
So save this foolproof recipe for a magic masala that will level up any kabab. Tag us on Instagram with your signature spice remixes and tantalizing kabab creations.
Happy grilling!
