Certainly! Here's a basic recipe for onion tomato masala, a versatile base used in many Indian dishes:
Ingredients:
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Instructions:
Heat Oil/Ghee: Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
Add Cumin Seeds: Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
Add Onions: Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
Add Green Chilies: Add chopped green chilies and sauté for an additional minute.
Add Tomatoes: Add the finely chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate from the masala.
Add Spices: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes to let the spices blend.
Cook until Oil Separates: Continue cooking until the masala is well-cooked, and the oil starts to separate from the mixture. This indicates that the masala is ready.
Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves.
Your onion tomato masala is now ready to be used as a base for various dishes like curries, gravies, or even as a topping for snacks. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences.