Lila Masala or blended chilli in a stored container

Lila Masala – The secret ingredient to Indian Cooking

Lila Masala: The secret Ingredient to Indian Cooking

Lila Masala or blended chilli in a stored container

A staple ingredient in any Indian household. Its basically a chilli, garlic, onion, tomato paste that we add to many Indian dishes to really heighten the flavours of your meal. If you can handle it – use it as a dip because its so chilly good! It is the true Oomph of Indian Cuisine.

My mum and grammas would always have a container of Lila Masala in the fridge, ready to use when needed. We like to make a few containers of this essential component and store it in small tubs or section containers for future use (as shown in the picture). My mum prefers to store the containers in ice cube trays and freeze them. When she needs to use Lila Masala, she simply takes out one cube and uses it. Whatever works best for you.

This method of storing Lila Masala is a great way to keep it fresh and flavourful. The freezing process helps to preserve the spices and prevent them from losing their potency. Additionally, the small containers make it easy to measure out the exact amount that you would need for a recipe.
Simple and Effective!

I have used this mixture in my easy Chicken Stir Fry recipe, to add a depth of flavour to the dish. It is an example of a great way to use Lila Masala in your own cooking, whether it’s Indian or Chinese food.

Ingredients

 NOTE: I used baking spoons and cups to help give you an exact measurement. I hope this makes it easy for you.

  • 1 bunch Coriander
  • 7 cloves Garlic
  • 3 heaped tsp Lila Marcha (Blended Green chillies)
  • 1 tsp Akhu Jeeru (Whole Cumin seeds)
  • 1 tsp Cumin powder
  • 1 Tomato
  • 1 small Onion
  • A Little water

How to cook it

Can you handle the heat?

  1. Combine all the ingredients above in a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. Store in small, airtight containers. 
  4. Label the containers with the date and contents.
  5. Freeze up to 6 months.
  6. Thaw the lila masala in the refrigerator overnight before using.
  7. Done!

Pro Tip! Clean your space.

  1. Once you have finished processing the chilli or making the Lila Masala, turn off the food processor and unplug it.
  2. Rinse the food processor bowl and blades with cold water for at least 30 seconds.
  3. If you have a removable lid, be sure to rinse that as well with cold water.
  4. You can then wash the food processor as usual with warm or hot water and soap.

By following these simple steps, you can help to prevent yourself from getting irritated by the capsaicin molecules in chilli peppers. These can cause you to sneeze, cough or even develop a burning sensation in your eyes.

Lila Masala Close up

"Spices are the lifeblood of cooking."

It would make me so so happy if you share your makings or your version of this recipe. It probably looks difficult, but its just a few basic ingredients that delivers a big bowl of unique flavours.  And honestly, there are no rules for food. You can always tweak it to your preference.

Why not share it with me on my Instagram page. Tag me in your posts so I can see your creative kitchen fun.

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