Chaat Masala is an iconic and intensely flavorful powdered spice mix originating from the Indian subcontinent, specifically designed to add a unique zing to a wide array of dishes. Unlike typical Indian curry powders, its dominant notes are tangy, salty, and pungent, rather than primarily spicy or sweet.
Key ingredients often include amchur (dried mango powder) and kala namak (Himalayan black salt), which provide its signature sourness and a distinct, slightly sulfuric aroma. Other common components are roasted cumin powder, coriander powder, black pepper, dried ginger, asafoetida (hing), and chili powder, contributing layers of warmth, earthiness, and a mild kick.
Chaat Masala is primarily a finishing spice, sprinkled generously over prepared foods to enhance their flavor. It’s indispensable for various Indian street food snacks (chaats) like aloo tikki, pani puri, and bhel puri. Its versatility extends to fruit salads (fruit chaat), where it provides a delightful contrast to sweetness, as well as to plain yogurt, roasted vegetables, fried snacks, and even certain beverages. It’s valued not only for its unique taste but also for its traditional digestive properties due to ingredients like cumin and black salt.
