Editing Masala

'''Masala''' is a term used in [[South Asian cuisine]] to describe a mixture of [[spices]]. The word 'masala' is of [[Indian subcontinent|Indian]] origin and translates to 'spice blend'. It is a fundamental aspect of [[Indian cuisine]], [[Pakistani cuisine]], and other cuisines of the [[Indian subcontinent]]. 

==Etymology==
The term 'masala' is derived from the [[Sanskrit]] word 'Mas' which means 'to smear'. In the culinary context, it refers to a mixture of ground spices used in Indian subcontinent cuisines.

==Types of Masala==
There are many types of masala, each with its unique blend of spices. Some of the most common types include:

* '''[[Garam Masala]]''': A blend of ground spices, typically including [[cumin]], [[coriander]], [[cardamom]], [[cinnamon]], [[nutmeg]], and [[cloves]]. It is used in many Indian dishes for its warm and fragrant flavor.

* '''[[Chaat Masala]]''': A tangy blend of spices that typically includes [[amchur]] (dried mango powder), cumin, [[kala namak]] (black salt), coriander, dried ginger, salt, black pepper, and [[asafoetida]]. It is often used in Indian street food and snacks.

* '''[[Tandoori Masala]]''': A mixture of spices specifically for use with a tandoor, or clay oven, in traditional cooking in the Indian subcontinent. The specific spices vary somewhat, but typically include garam masala, garlic, ginger, onion, and cayenne pepper.

==Usage in Cuisine==
Masala is used in a variety of dishes in the cuisines of the Indian subcontinent. It is often used as a base flavor for curries, lentil dishes, and rice dishes. The spices are typically toasted and then ground together. This mixture is then combined with a liquid, such as water or yogurt, to form a paste. The paste is then used to flavor the dish.

==Health Benefits==
Many of the spices used in masala have been found to have health benefits. For example, turmeric, a common ingredient in many masala blends, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Similarly, cumin and coriander have been found to aid digestion.

==See Also==
* [[Curry]]
* [[Indian cuisine]]
* [[Spice mix]]

[[Category:Indian cuisine]]
[[Category:Spices]]
[[Category:Pakistani cuisine]]
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