masala

British  

/ mɑːˈsɑːlə /

noun

1. a mixture of spices ground into a paste, used in Indian cookery

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adjective

1. spicy; dramatic

   it was a typical masala film

Etymology

Origin of masala

from Urdu masalah, from Arabic masalih ingredients

Explanation

In South Asian food, masala is the particular mix of spices that makes a dish taste so good. Depending on the masala you use, your curry may be extra spicy! Many Indian, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani cooks make their own special masalas for different dishes. A chickpea curry might use a masala that's heavy on the dried chiles, while a spicy, milky chai would be made with a masala that includes cinnamon, cardamom, clove, and other spices. Masala, borrowed from the Urdu masālā, "blend of spices," has an Arabic root.

Example Sentences

For the main course, I enjoyed a classic — butter chicken — alongside a poached lobster tail in a green coconut masala with Mexican chili and coriander-mint purée.

From Salon • Mar. 7, 2026

He said Holland tucked into a chicken tikka masala, pilau rice and a garlic naan, while Zendaya enjoyed a chana saag bengan, paneer shaslik starter with a side of saag aloo.

From BBC • Dec. 22, 2025

In terms of standout recipes from the book, Smalls is particularly drawn to the Kenyan chef’s contribution, which incorporates Indian spices like masala.

From Salon • Feb. 22, 2025

For Indian cuisine, consider stocking turmeric, garam masala, mustard seeds, curry leaves and ghee.

From Salon • Jan. 2, 2025

“I’m getting there. I’d also have mixed vegetable sagu and veg­etable korma and potato masala and cabbage vadai and masala dosai and spicy lentil rasam and—” “I see.”

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel