Spices have always played a vital role in Indian cuisine and are termed as one of the most valuable ingredients for Indian cooking. Among the long list of 80 different types of Indian spices, in this article, our primary focus will be on “Chaat Masala Vs Chana Masala”. You’ll find these two flavourful spices in almost every Indian household. Not only because of their rich aroma, but these spices are also famous for their health benefits.
What is Chaat Masala?
Chaat masala is an essential ingredient used in different kinds of Indian and Pakistani street food such as samosa chaat, papdi chaat, chana chaat, and fruit chaat. It is even used in one of the most famous Indian beverages known as Shikanji (Masala Lemonade).
This masala (powder) is the perfect ingredient to bring a kick of sour and tangy flavor to dishes.
Because of its addictive taste, this powder is one of the most commonly bought masala in India. For its preservation, it is suggested to store the powder in a small, airtight spice jar or container. It’ll last for 6-8 weeks before it starts losing freshness.
Here’s how you can make delicious homemade chaat masala with The Bombay Chef – Varun Inamdar:
Ingredients Used To Make Chaat Masala
Given below is a list of ingredients used to make the perfect spice blend of chaat masala:
- Black salt
- Dry mango powder
- Iodized salt
- Coriander powder
- Kachari
- Mint leaves
- Chilli powder
- Cumin
- Dry ginger
- Black pepper
- Cloves
- Nutmeg
- Asafoetida
Health Benefits of Chaat Masala
These health benefits of ingredients used in chaat masala will make you add it to every dish you eat:
| Ingredients Used | Health Benefits |
| Mango Powder and Asafoetida (hing) | Good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium. Good for digestion. |
| Cumin Seeds | Good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and magnesium. Reduces symptoms of high blood sugar. |
| Chilies | Boosts immune system. Contains antioxidants. |
| Black Pepper and Coriander | Helps with metabolism. Reduce bloating and gas. |
What is Chana Masala?
Chana masala is a traditional blend of different Indian spices that is specifically used for seasoning of chickpea (chana) dishes. It is a combination of sweet, spicy, and sour flavors.
For storage, it is advised to store the chana masala in an airtight container. The masala powder can stay fresh and flavourful for up to 2 months. You can also store your spices in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for a long time.
Check out this traditional Indian recipe of Chana Masala Dish by MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria.
Other than being used in the preparation of gravy chana, the chana masala powder can also be used for preparing the following dishes:
- Vegetable Pulao
- Samosa filling
- Paneer paratha filling
- Rajma Curry
- Potato paratha filling
Check below to explore more about chana masala.
Ingredients Used To Make Chana Masala
Given below is a list of ingredients used in the making of chana masala:
- Cloves
- Kashmiri chili powder
- Bay leaf
- Cinnamon stick
- Coriander seeds
- Cumin seeds
- Fenugreek seeds
- Fennel seeds
- Black peppercorns
- Asafoetida
- Black Cardamom
- Cardamom Powder
- Mango powder
- Salt
Health Benefits of Chana Masala
These health benefits of ingredients used in chana masala will blow your mind away:
| Ingredients Used | Health Benefits |
| Cloves | Reduces risk of heart disease. Full of antioxidants. |
| Cardamom Powder | Contains cancer-fighting compounds. Helps with digestive problems. |
| Bay Leaf | Ground source of Vitamin A and Vitamin B6. |
| Kashmiri Chillies | Good source of Vitamin C. Helps in building stronger immunity. |
Chana Masala Vs Chaat Masala: Are They Similar?
The only similarity between chaat masala vs chana masala is their ingredients. That, too, with a few exceptions.
In case you’re wondering if you could use chaat masala instead of chana masala, you must know that chaat masala is a little saltier than chana masala. So, if you want your dish to taste sourer, you can experiment with chaat masala.
One can also make use of chana masala for chaat masala. But only when they are using some black salt or lime juice for citrus and tangy flavors in their dish.
What Is The Difference Between Chaat Masala And Chana Masala Powder?
Both of the spices that we have described above are different from each other in terms of their flavor and use. Below is a list of differences between chaat masala vs chana masala:
- The chaat masala is more of a seasoning and is sprinkled over cooked food items for added flavor. Whereas, chana masala is a recipe spice that is used in the preparation of chickpea dishes like chana masala (chickpea curry).
- Chana masala is a type of spice that can be used for both gravy and dry chickpea dishes. Chaat masala can only be used for seasoning dry food items.
- The texture of chaat masala is described as smooth, as it’s a fine powder. Chana masala, on the other hand, has a grainy texture as it’s made of rough-textured spices.
Here are some frequently asked questions related to chaat masala vs chana masala:
Which Indian Brands Sell The Best Chaat Masala and Chana Masala?
Some of the most famous brands for Indian spices are Everest, MDH, Goldiee, TATA, Catch, etc. These brands are readily available at online stores.
In Which State Is Chana Masala Most Famous?
Chana masala is most famous in the states of North India, such as Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Haryana, and Delhi. People from North India use chana masala in almost all their recipes.
What is The Best Chaat Masala Substitute?
Some great alternatives for chaat masala include lemon juice, mango powder, and black salt. These ingredients have a similar tangy taste and thus many people prefer these over chaat masala for their dishes.
When Was Chaat Masala Invented?
A famous yet unproven story claims that chaat masala was invented in the 17th century by the kitchen staff of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. At that time, Shah Jahan was sick and could only consume lighter foods. Therefore, one of his chefs prepared chaat, a kind of tangy and spicy Indian delicacies such as bhel puri, papdi chaat, and sprinkled some chaat masala on it.
Wish to know about other spices? Don’t forget to check out our other blog articles on chaat masala vs garam masala, chana masala vs chole and chana masala vs tikka masala.
