Tandoori Masala

Tandoori Masala

Tandoori masala is a bold and smoky spice blend traditionally used in Indian tandoor cooking—clay ovens that char meats and veggies to perfection. With roots in Punjab, this mix typically includes cumin, coriander, garlic, ginger, paprika, and chili powder, among others.

It’s the signature flavor behind tandoori chicken, tikka skewers, and grilled paneer. While it's perfect for high-heat grilling, it also shines in oven roasting, pan-frying, and even stirred into yogurt-based marinades.

Easy Tips

Works Well With

  • Proteins: Chicken, lamb, tofu, paneer, fish
  • Vegetables: Cauliflower, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions
  • Dairy: Yogurt, cream
  • Grains: Basmati rice, naan, couscous

Great Flavor Pairings

  • Yogurt
  • Lemon juice
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Cilantro
  • Ghee or butter
  • Smoked paprika
  • Chili flakes

Quick & Easy Ideas

  • Tandoori Veggie Skewers – Toss chopped veggies in oil and tandoori masala, then roast or grill.
  • Spiced Yogurt Dip – Stir tandoori masala into Greek yogurt for a smoky dip.
  • Tandoori Chicken Thighs – Marinate chicken in yogurt and tandoori masala, then bake or grill.
  • Tandoori Popcorn – Melt butter, mix with tandoori masala, and drizzle over popcorn.

Recipes

Tandoori Chicken

An easy version of a restaurant classic—no clay oven needed.

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs
  • 3 tbsp plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp tandoori masala
  • ½ tsp salt

Directions:

  1. Mix yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala, and salt.
  2. Coat chicken and marinate at least 1 hour.
  3. Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes until cooked and slightly charred.

Tandoori Roasted Cauliflower

Bold and flavorful cauliflower with crispy edges.

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp tandoori masala
  • Salt to taste

Directions:

  1. Toss cauliflower with oil, tandoori masala, and salt.
  2. Roast at 400°F for 25–30 minutes until golden and crispy.

Tandoori Tofu Wraps

A smoky, plant-based wrap packed with flavor.

Serves: 2

Ingredients:

  • 1 block tofu, pressed and cubed
  • ¼ cup yogurt (or vegan alt)
  • 1 tsp tandoori masala
  • Flatbreads, slaw, and sauce for serving

Directions:

  1. Mix tofu with yogurt and tandoori masala; marinate 20 minutes.
  2. Pan-fry or bake until crisp.
  3. Serve in wraps with your choice of toppings.

Tandoori Masala Potatoes

Crispy and smoky potatoes perfect for snacking or sides.

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp tandoori masala
  • Salt to taste

Directions:

  1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender. Drain.
  2. Toss with oil, tandoori masala, and salt.
  3. Roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes until crispy and golden.

Note: Be sure to always follow the Food Safety Guidelines when preparing meals.