A good masala blend saves you from measuring out a dozen individual spices every time you cook a familiar dish. This category covers standalone spice blends the base seasoning itself, distinct from the full meal kits with cooking instructions found under Instant Foods & Mixes > Quick Meals.
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Garam Masala is a blend of warming whole spices — typically including cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin and black pepper — ground together, though exact recipes vary by region and brand.
Garam Masala is often added toward the end of cooking, to preserve its aromatic qualities, though some recipes also use it earlier in the cooking process — check the specific recipe you're following.
Garam Masala is a specific North Indian/Pakistani spice blend without turmeric as a defining ingredient in traditional recipes, while Curry Powder is a broader, often milder blend that typically includes turmeric, giving it a characteristic yellow colour.
Sambar Masala is a South Indian spice blend specifically formulated for making sambar, a lentil-and-vegetable stew, with a distinct combination of spices and lentils roasted and ground together.
Tandoori Masala is a blend used to marinate meat or paneer for tandoori-style dishes, typically combined with yogurt before cooking.
This category carries the standalone spice blend itself; the Quick Meals versions bundle the same type of masala with a full meal-kit method and serving guidance for a complete dish.
This varies by blend — check the individual product's ingredient list, as some spice mixes include anti-caking agents or other additives that may contain gluten.
Ground spice blends are generally best used within about a year of opening for optimal flavour — check the individual product's best-before date.
Pav Bhaji Masala is a specific spice blend formulated for pav bhaji, a spiced vegetable mash served with bread, with a distinct tangy, warming flavour profile.
Yes, though pre-made blends offer convenience and consistency — many households do make their own using whole spices from our Whole Spices category, roasted and ground fresh.
Most spice mixes like Garam Masala are more about warmth and aromatic complexity than chili heat, though some blends (like certain Chana Masala recipes) include chili for spiciness — check individual product descriptions.
This varies by blend — check the individual product's ingredient list, as some blends may contain mustard, celery or other declared allergens under EU food labelling rules.
Most spice mixes are vegetarian and vegan, but check the individual product's ingredient list to confirm, as a small number of blends may include non-vegan additives.
This varies by recipe and personal taste — a small amount (around 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per serving) is typical, added toward the end of cooking.
Bulk pack sizes vary by product — check the individual product page for available sizes.