Discovering My Love for Masala Sauces
My Favorite is Spicy Masala Simmer Sauce and I remember the first time I made a masala sauce. I was drawn to the warm, spicy aromas that filled the kitchen whenever I cooked Indian food. One evening, I wanted to create something quick and flavorful, something that would elevate even the simplest vegetables or beans. That’s when I decided to experiment with what is now my go-to recipe: Spicy Masala Simmer Sauce. I started with caramelized onions, garlic, and dates to build a rich, sweet base, and I knew I was on to something delicious.
The Perfect Balance of Spices
The real magic of this sauce lies in its balance of spices. I used a mix of curry powder, coriander, and cumin to give the sauce its signature warmth. I was careful with the cayenne pepper, adjusting it just right for that perfect level of heat. While it packs a punch, the sweetness of the dates keeps the spice from becoming overwhelming. As I simmered the sauce, I couldn’t help but sneak a taste here and there—it was a flavor explosion!
A Versatile Addition to My Meals
What I love most about this sauce is its versatility. On busy weeknights, I can pour it over chickpeas for a quick chana masala, or I can use it to spice up a simple vegetable stew. I’ve even used it as a dipping sauce for naan bread. The best part? It’s vegan and healthy, yet bursting with bold flavors. Whether I’m serving it over rice or using it as a side dish, this sauce never fails to impress.
Sharing My Creation with Friends
Over time, I started sharing my Spicy Masala Simmer Sauce with friends. They loved how easy it was to make, yet how flavorful it turned out. The caramelized onions, paired with the perfect blend of spices, quickly became a hit at our gatherings. Some even asked me for the recipe! Watching others enjoy it as much as I do has made me realize that this sauce isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience, one that brings people together over the love of good food.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Spicy Masala Simmer Sauce
- Use low-medium heat and patience while caramelizing the onions and garlic. This brings out a rich, sweet flavor, which forms the foundation of the sauce. If the mixture sticks, add a small splash of water.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat tolerance. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with half the amount, and gradually add more. You can also add garam masala or turmeric for more depth.
- If using tomato paste or crushed tomatoes, be sure to adjust the water content to prevent the sauce from being too thick. Aim for a smooth, slightly chunky texture.
- Freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice adds brightness to the dish. If using bottled juice, start with less and adjust as needed to avoid overpowering the sauce.
- This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days or freezes for up to 2 months. Store in an airtight container to preserve the flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving.
Spicy Masala Simmer Sauce
Dive into the flavors of India with this Spicy Masala Simmer Sauce! Perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite veggies or beans, this vegan sauce is a must-try. Caramelized onions, garlic, and dates create a rich base, while a blend of curry powder, coriander, and cumin delivers a warming punch. Adjust the cayenne to your liking for the perfect heat level. This versatile sauce is ideal for quick meals like chana masala or a spicy vegetable stew. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
4
servings15
minutes15
minutes120
kcal30
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
4 medium Yellow onions finely chopped
12 Garlic cloves minced
4 Pitted dates finely chopped
2 tablespoons Fresh ginger freshly grated
1 cup Tomato puree
2 tablespoons Lemon juice fresh
2 tablespoons Mild curry blend
2 tablespoons Ground coriander seeds
1.5 teaspoons Ground cumin seeds
1 teaspoon Cayenne pepper adjust to taste
0.5 teaspoon Black pepper freshly cracked
1 teaspoon Fine sea salt
Directions
- Caramelizing Base Ingredients – In a large nonstick pan over medium-low heat, combine the chopped onions, minced garlic, chopped dates, and grated ginger with ¼ cup of water. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the onions are golden brown. Stir frequently and add water in small increments to prevent sticking.
- Adding Spices and Tomato Base – Once the onions are caramelized, add the tomato puree, lemon juice, curry powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and black pepper along with an additional ½ cup of water. Stir well to combine and let it cook for another 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Final Touches – Stir in the sea salt and let the sauce cool to room temperature before storing.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Nonstick Pan
- measuring cups and spoons
- mixing bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 15mg
- Calcium: 6mg
- Iron: 10mg
FAQ-Spicy Masala Simmer Sauce
Can I make this sauce less spicy?
Yes, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely if you’re sensitive to heat. You can also use a mild curry powder to keep the spice level low.
What can I substitute if I don’t have dates?
You can use raisins, dried apricots, or even a teaspoon of brown sugar to add natural sweetness to the sauce.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato puree?
Yes, canned crushed tomatoes or tomato paste mixed with water work well. Just make sure to adjust the water content to maintain the right consistency.
How can I thicken or thin the sauce?
To thicken, cook it longer until some liquid evaporates. To thin, add small amounts of water or vegetable broth until the desired consistency is achieved.
Can I use this sauce for other dishes?
Absolutely! This sauce is versatile and pairs well with chickpeas for chana masala, tofu, or any vegetable stir-fry. It can also be used as a base for soups or as a marinade for grilled veggies.
