Tandoori masala is a spice blend used to marinate chicken, paneer, or vegetables before roasting or grilling — it's what gives tandoori dishes their signature smoky, warm, and mildly spicy flavor. The name comes from the tandoor (a cylindrical clay oven), but you don't need one to make great tandoori food at home.
What's in Tandoori Masala?
A traditional tandoori masala blend typically includes:
- Cumin — earthy, warm base note
- Coriander — citrusy brightness
- Kashmiri chili — deep red color, mild heat
- Paprika — smoky depth
- Turmeric — golden color, subtle bitterness
- Garam masala — warm finishing spices (cardamom, cinnamon, cloves)
- Garlic and ginger powder — savory backbone
The exact ratio is what makes one tandoori masala better than another. Generic grocery-store blends often over-rely on chili powder and food coloring. A good tandoori masala should be aromatic first, with heat as a background note.
How to Make Tandoori Chicken at Home
The basic method is simple:
- Mix the marinade: Combine one packet of moji masala® Tandoori Masala with yogurt, lemon juice, and a splash of oil
- Marinate the chicken: Score the meat, coat thoroughly, refrigerate 2–24 hours
- Cook: Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, or grill over medium-high heat
That's it. The yogurt tenderizes the meat while the spices create a flavorful crust. Serve with basmati rice, naan, and a cilantro-mint chutney.
Tandoori Masala vs. Curry Powder: What's the Difference?
Curry powder is a generic, all-purpose blend invented for Western markets. It's not used in traditional Indian cooking.
Tandoori masala is dish-specific — it's formulated for one cooking method (high-heat roasting/grilling) and one flavor profile (smoky, warm, mildly spiced). That specificity is what makes it taste authentic.
Where to Buy Tandoori Masala Online
moji masala® Tandoori Chicken Masala is a pre-measured, dish-specific blend based on a Kashmiri family recipe. $7 per packet, serves 3–5 people, free shipping on orders over $19.
It's also included in the Chicken Lover's 4-Pack ($24) alongside Chicken Curry, Wings Masala, and Rogan Josh — four meals in one box.
No Fillers. No Preservatives. No Tandoor Required.
Every moji masala® blend is gluten-free, MSG-free, and made in small batches. Founded by Shireen Qadri from Kashmiri family recipes. Featured in Forbes and Food & Wine.
