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masala

British  
/ mɑːˈsɑːlə /

noun

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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

adjective

  1. spicy; dramatic

    it was a typical masala film

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of masala

from Urdu masalah, from Arabic masalih ingredients

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"I went back to them with the idea and they said, no, we want a proper evening meal bar of soap, something like beans on toast or a chicken tikka masala," she said.

From BBC

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

Try some chili crisp or a subtler note with a warming spice, like cumin or garam masala.

From Salon

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

From Salon

In the last five years, the nonprofit found, California school districts have added 41 new vegan dishes to their menus, including chana masala bowls, vegan tamales, and falafel wraps.

From Salon