Hand-roasted and ground by Unnati Ground Spices, a women's self-help group in Ganjad village, Dahanu taluka, Maharashtra — kala masala is a signature spice blend of Maharashtrian cuisine, cherished for its deep, smoky aroma, dark colour, and complex flavour.
It's traditionally made by slow-roasting a variety of spices such as coriander, cumin, dried chillies, pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and other ingredients before grinding them into a rich masala. This careful roasting process gives kala masala its distinctive taste and earthy character.
Widely used in Maharashtra to prepare curries, usal, vegetables, dals, and meat dishes, it adds depth, warmth, and authentic regional flavour to every meal. A small quantity is enough to transform simple dishes into delicious home-style Maharashtrian cuisine.
