Indori Jeeravan (Poha Masala)

Indori Jeeravan Masala is a signature spice blend from the vibrant city of Indore, known for its rich street food culture. This aromatic and flavourful masala is a perfect mix of roasted cumin (jeera), various dried spices, herbs, and a hint of tanginess, often incorporating ingredients like red chili, coriander, amchur (dry mango powder), and a dash of salt.

The masala gets its unique name from the combination of “jeera” (cumin) and “van” meaning flavour or aroma, giving it a savoury yet zesty kick. Typically sprinkled over savoury snacks like poha, sabudana khichdi, dahi puri, or bhutte ka kees, it enhances the dish with a deep, slightly spicy and tangy flavour profile.

Indori Jeeravan Masala is often used in both home kitchens and by street food vendors, adding a signature tangy-spicy taste to food that’s distinctive to the region’s cuisine. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a burst of flavours with every bite.

Indori Jeeravan Masala is a versatile spice blend that can be used in a variety of ways to elevate your dishes. Here are some popular usages:

Poha: Indori Poha is incomplete without a generous sprinkle of Jeeravan Masala, giving it a tangy, spicy kick.

Dahi Puri / Pani Puri: Add a pinch to the stuffing or as a topping to enhance the flavour of these popular street food snacks.

Samosas & Kachoris: A sprinkle of Jeeravan Masala on crispy snacks like samosas or kachoris can provide a flavourful zest.

On Salads: Use it as a seasoning on fresh salads, especially those with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a bit of lemon juice for a tangy twist.

Sabudana Khichdi: This traditional dish is often enhanced with the zing of Jeeravan Masala, providing an extra layer of flavour.

Aloo Tikki: Sprinkle on top of crispy aloo tikki or potato-based snacks for a spicy, aromatic touch.

In Raita or Yogurt: Mix it into a bowl of plain yogurt or raita (yogurt mixed with cucumber or veggies) to add a delightful tangy flavour. It’s a great accompaniment to rice or biryani.

On Roasted or Grilled Vegetables: Use it as a seasoning for roasted or grilled vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, or carrots. A light sprinkle will enhance the smokiness and add a hint of spice.

In Chutneys: Add a dash to your homemade chutneys especially mint, tamarind, or coriander chutneys to give them an extra punch.

On Fruit Chaat: A common usage in Indian street food is sprinkling Jeeravan Masala on fruit chaat. It pairs beautifully with fruits like pomegranate, apple, and orange, creating a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and spicy.

In Rice or Pulao: Add a pinch of Jeeravan Masala to your rice or pulao to give a subtle, flavourful enhancement.

In Soups and Stews: Use it to season vegetable soups, lentil soups, or stews for an added depth of flavour.

On Popcorn or Snacks: Sprinkle over popcorn or any savoury snack mix for an instant flavour upgrade, especially if you’re looking for something tangy with a touch of heat.

Indori Jeeravan Masala is perfect for anyone who enjoys bold flavours and loves experimenting with seasoning, whether in traditional Indian dishes or as a fun twist on modern snacks.