Turmeric Free Chaat Masala
Making your own chaat masala from scratch is one of those kitchen projects that pays off every single time you open the jar. The tangy punch of amchur, the sulfurous depth of kala namak, and the warm heat of cumin and cayenne come together into a spice blend that's genuinely addictive — the kind of thing you'll start sprinkling on everything from fruit to roasted chickpeas. Most store-bought versions sneak in turmeric as a filler or colorant, so if you're avoiding it, the spice aisle can feel like a minefield. This homemade version keeps things clean, relying on toasted cumin and coriander seeds, bold aromatics, and a carefully balanced mix of pantry spices — no yellow pigment required. Toasting the whole seeds before grinding is the step that makes all the difference, coaxing out a smoky, nutty complexity you simply can't get from pre-ground shortcuts. A pinch of asafoetida and a whisper of cinnamon and cloves round out the blend with layers that keep surprising you bite after bite. Once it's sealed in a jar, you've got three months of seriously vibrant seasoning ready to go.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
12 servings
- 2 tbsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 2 tbsp amchur (dried mango powder)
- 1 tsp kala namak (black salt)
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp asafoetida (hing)
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp dried mint (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and coriander seeds and toast, stirring constantly, until the cumin is a shade darker and the spices smell fragrant, about 2 minutes. Watch closely, as they can scorch quickly.
- 2
Transfer the toasted seeds to a plate and let them cool for 5 minutes, until no longer steaming.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!