Fish masala powder dry is an aromatic blend of different spices used in Indian and Pakistani cuisine. This seafood seasoning is mainly used to marinate the fish for frying, or to be incorporated into different fish curries. It helps to enhances the natural taste of fish with zesty aromatic flavor. It is breeze to whip up within 15 minutes.
What is Fish Masala
It is also known as “fish fry masala powder” or “fish curry masala powder”. This spice mix is mainly crafted to elevate the flavors of fish dishes. My recipe combines robust blend of aromatic spices like cumin seeds, coriander seeds, black peppercorn, fennel seeds, dry fenugreek, cloves, ginger garlic powder, salt, chili flakes and turmeric powder.
First, these whole spices are gently roasted on low heat. This removes moisture and boosts their flavors. Then, these roasted spices are ground into a fine powder. Roasting is key for a fresh, rich aroma and taste. Finally ground and powder spices are mixed to gather well. You can also check out our Chicken pakora recipe.
This recipe is special to me because a senior Pakistani chef in the seafood department gave it to me. His fried fish was very famous, and one day, I asked him for his secret. He shared this recipe with me.
Serving Suggestion
This seafood spice blend can be used in various ways to enhance your fish and seafood dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- To Make Marinade: Create a marinade by combining this spice mix powder with lemon juice, yogurt, and oil. Thoroughly coat the fish with this mixture before proceeding to grill or bake the fish.
- In Curries: You can also use this powder as main spice blend in fish curries.
- Seafood Soups and Stews: Add the masala powder while cooking soups and stews for an aromatic and tasty seafood dish.
- Rice Dishes: Impart this authentic fish seasoning into rice dishes like fish biryani or pilaf for a fragrant and flavorful meal.
- Seasoning: Sprinkle over cooked/fry fish or seafood before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Homemade vs Store-Bought
Many premade fish masala options exist in grocery stores. Store-bought contains preservatives and artificial additives to make them fresh. But homemade fish cooking spice has clear benefits. You can tailor homemade masala to your tastes. This guarantees a perfect flavor balance. Fresh ingredients boost your dish’s aroma and taste.
I’ve also compared homemade and store-bought spice mix in detail. I’ve included all the important points for your easy understanding, in the following table.
| Feature | Store-Bought | Homemade |
| Flavor & Freshness | May have less vibrant flavors due to storage. | Typically, more aromatic and flavorful due to fresh ingredients. |
| Customization | Fixed spice combinations; no room for adjustment. | Can be tailored to personal taste preferences and dietary needs. |
| Ingredients & Health | May contain preservatives and artificial additives. | Control over ingredients ensures no unwanted additives. |
| Cost | Convenient but can be more expensive over time. | Initial investment pays off with multiple uses; generally, more economical. |
| Cultural & Emotional Connection | Offers convenience but lacks personal touch. | Provides a sense of tradition and accomplishment; can be used to share family recipes. |
Ingredients List
Below, I’ve included a picture that identifies each spice by its name. Additionally, I’ve provided detail health benefits and flavor profiles of each spice.
- Coriander powder – Coriander seeds are essential ingredient in recipe. They add a mild, citrusy flavor to the spice mix. Coriander seeds help with digestion, prevent bloating, and reduce acidity.
- Cumin Seeds – Cumin seeds add earthy aroma in it. It provides support in digestion and detoxification.
- Fennel Seeds – These ae aromatic and balance other spices with their sweet flavor. It also plays a great role to aid in digestion.
- Black Pepper Corns – They add heat in Spice blend. Black peppercorns add smoky flavor and pungent taste in the blend of spice mix.
- Cloves – They boost metabolism and detoxify the body and use as a warming spice. Avoid if you have acidity, ulcers, or dehydration. Always use them in moderate quantity.
- Turmeric – Due to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, turmeric is essential ingredient of every single curry of Indian cuisine. It has warm, bitter flavor and add vibrant color to curry.
- Salt – It enhances flavor, supports electrolyte balance and nerve function. Its distinct taste balances out the other spices for best taste.
- Ginger – It features aids in digestion, reduces nausea, and has anti-inflammatory properties. It’s sharp but slightly sweet flavor is compulsory for this recipe.
- Garlic – It is very important item in this recipe which boosts immunity. Further its benefits for heart health are on the top of list. Its savory, slightly sweet taste with a pungent aroma elevates the taste.
- Dry red chilies Improve metabolism, offer pain relief. Dry red chilies known for its hot, pungent flavor. Its smoky undertone balances the overall taste.
- Dry Fenugreek provide helps to control blood sugar and digestion. Fenugreek has a bitter yet sweet, nutty flavor which works well with other ingredients.
Looking to add a burst of authentic coastal flavor to your seafood dishes? Try my homemade Fish curry spice mix for an unforgettable experience. It is easy and quick to make.
How to make Fish Masala
Several crucial steps must be followed to prepare fish masala which are describe as under.
Clean the spice – Firstly, spread all the spices separately on a clean surface or on a plate. Carefully inspect and discard any unnecessary stones, stems, or other debris that might be mixed in the spice.
Roast the Whole Spice: It is very important to avoid any moist in the ingredients. Roasting also adds intense flavor to whole spices.
- We will start roasting by adding coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, cloves, and fennel seeds in a skillet and roast them on low flame until they smell fragrant.
- Please keep stirring continuously while frying the whole spices. It will take about 2 minutes or less.
- Turn off the heat and remove the pan from the stove. Place the spices on a plate and allow them to cool down.
Grind the Whole Spices – Take a good condition electric spice grinder. Put all roasted spices in that grinder and grind them by using pulse option.
Mix all Spices – Put salt, chili flakes, turmeric, ginger garlic powder, and dry fenugreek in a big bowl. Then, add the roasted ground spices to the same bowl and mix everything together well.
How to Store
To store spices blend effectively and maintain its freshness, follow these tips:
| Storage Tip | Description |
| Use an airtight container | Keeps moisture out, preserving freshness. |
| Store in a cool, dark place | Protects from sunlight and heat, maintaining flavor. |
| Use a clean, dry spoon | Prevents contamination and moisture entry. |
| Label the container | Helps track freshness with a date. |
| Consider vacuum sealing | For extended storage, preserves aroma and flavor. |
| Storing environment | Recommended in warm/humid climates, with a tight seal. |
| Opt for glass containers | Prevents odor absorption and is easy to clean for pure flavors. |
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Spices – Use only fresh and top-notch whole and ground spices.
- Roast the Spices – For enhanced flavor, it is recommended to lightly roast whole spices in the oven if you don’t have the stovetop.
- Cool Down Spices – Let the spices cool before grinding or milling them; otherwise, the taste will be ruined.
- Label the Container – Always try to label the storage container with the production and expiry date; use it within one year.
- Make Small batches – If you rarely using this seasoning powder, make it in small batches based on your needs.
- Double the Recipe – Easy to double and triple this recipe depending upon the usage
Frequently Asked Questions
How to use fish Fish curry mix powder?
This seasoning is mixed with yogurt to marinate fish and seafood. It also added to curry for a better taste. Sometimes rubbed on fish before frying, baking, or grilling. It can be sprinkled on after frying fish for extra flavor.
How to make fish masala at home ?
Indian fish masala mix is a combination of whole spices (cumin powder, coriander powder, black peppercorns, cloves and fennel seeds) and ground spices (salt, turmeric, dry red chilies or chili flakes, ginger garlic powder). Once whole spices are ground, they are combined with other powdered spices.
Can I use this Fish curry blend powder for dishes other than fish?
Yes, you can flavor not just fish but also vegetables, chicken, and other meats. Its mix of spices adds rich taste to many dishes.
Easy Fish Masala Powder Homemade
Materials
- 1 Tablespoon Cumin Seeds
- 2 Tablespoon Coriander Seeds
- 1 Tablespoon Turmeric
- 1 Tablespoon Salt
- 1 Tablespoon Fenugreek
- 1 Tablespoon Ginger powder
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Fennel Seeds
- 1 Teaspoon Black Peppercorns
- ½ Teaspoon cloves
- 2 Pieces dry red chilies or 1 teaspoon Chile flakes
Instructions
- Clean the spice – Firstly, spread all the spices separately on a clean surface or on a plate. Carefully inspect and discard any unnecessary stones, stems, or other debris that might be mixed in the spice.
- Roast the Whole Spice: We will start roasting by adding coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, cloves, and fennel seeds in a skillet and roast them on low flame until they smell fragrant. Please keep stirring continuously while frying the whole spices. It will take about 2 minutes or less. Turn off the heat and remove the pan from the stove. Place the spices on a plate and allow them to cool down.
- Grind the Whole Spices – Take a good condition electric spice grinder. Put all roasted spices in that grinder and grind them by using pulse option.
- Mix all Spices – Put salt, chili flakes, turmeric, ginger garlic powder, and dry fenugreek in a big bowl. Then, add the roasted ground spices to the same bowl and mix everything together well.
