2020 has been a whirlwind of unexpected occurrences. Restrictions on travel and a nationwide lockdown kept us all home. While many resurrected their passion for cooking, some of us learnt this art whilst staying locked up in the safe vicinity of our homes. And nothing speaks comfort food more than home-cooked Indian meals. So, here's a list of easy ingredients you'd require for Indian Cooking. Oh, and you can easily get these online.
Let's get started, shall we?
No Indian dish is complete without a decent tablespoon of Garam Masala. A strong and flavourful blend of cumin, cinnamon, black cardamom, red chilli, rock salt and a whole bunch of traditional Indian spices, a packet of Garam Masala is what your shelves need. This one from Ammiji's is free of any harmful chemicals making it completely natural. The brand is all about traditional spice blends and powders which surely reminded us of our grandmoms.
Price: INR 499 (75g)
Although everyone has a different tolerance level for spicy food, red chilli powder only brings out that zesty flavour in the many different types of Indian curries. Salz & Aroma does a bunch of these organic spices which are as natural as it gets and is a constant in our kitchen shelves.
Price: INR 220 (100g)
Another inevitable ingredient while cooking traditional Indian food is turmeric powder. Having a gazillion health benefits attached to it, Haldi not only adds that much needed yellow hue but also amps up the taste. The Spicery is a homegrown brand that retails quite a few quality spice blends which can be used while cooking it up a notch.
Price: INR 195 (100g)
Commonly known as Methi Dana, these seeds can be added to vegetables, curries and even chutneys. B&B Organics is another great brand for getting natural and chemical-free cooking and baking supplies.
Price: INR 200 (200g)
Another one of the essentials for Indian cooking, Dhaniya powder is one of the key ingredients while preparing South Indian Dishes. This one by Orika comes in a pack of three - Chili, Turmeric and Coriander powder. You can get other combination packs as well.
Price: INR 100 for 100g of Coriander, Turmeric and Chili Powder.
Having a distinct spicy flavour, Jeera is one of the first ingredients to be added when the oil is perfectly heated. These are also available in powdered form. The brand does plenty of other snacks and groceries as well which can be bought online on Amazon.
Price: INR 34 (100g)
Often used in the process of tadka (tempering), Mustard Seeds or Rai add a strong flavour to various Indian dishes and add a great flavour. 24 Mantra Organic is a great Hyderabad-based brand for all your basic cooking essentials.
Price: INR 28 (100g)
P.S: If baking is your forte then check out this list of essential baking ingredients for making all kinds of desserts.