Go Back
–+ servings
Substitutes for Tandoori Masala in Indian Marinades

5 Best Substitutes for Tandoori Masala

No ratings yet
Discover five effective substitutes for tandoori masala that replicate its warmth, color, and spice complexity. From garam masala blends to DIY spice mixes, these options help maintain flavor balance in your marinades and dishes when you run out of tandoori masala.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 16 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Kitchen Tips, Substitutes
Cuisine: Various
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Garam Masala Blend (1 tbsp) + Smoked Paprika (1 tsp) + Cayenne (¼ tsp) Use this mixture per tablespoon of tandoori masala to replicate warmth and color.
  • Smoked Paprika (2 tbsp) + Ground Cumin (1 tsp) Use this combination per tablespoon of tandoori masala for smoky flavor and bright color.
  • DIY Blend of Ground Coriander (1 tbsp), Ground Cumin (1 tbsp), Smoked Paprika (1 tbsp), Cayenne (1 tsp), Ground Ginger (1 tsp), Turmeric (½ tsp) Mix spices to recreate full tandoori masala flavor profile; use per tablespoon replacement.
  • Chaat Masala (1 tbsp) + Smoked Paprika (1 tbsp) Use per tablespoon of tandoori masala as a finishing spice on raw dishes;
  • Curry Powder (1 tbsp) + Smoked Paprika (1 tbsp) Use per tablespoon of tandoori masala for quick marinades and stews;

Method
 

  1. Select your substitute based on the use case: cooking, raw finishing, or DIY blending.
  2. Measure and mix spices according to the specified ratios for each substitute.
  3. Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity to control the heat level to your preference.
  4. Use the substitute spice blend in marinades, rubs, or as finishing spice where tandoori masala is called for.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning or color as needed before cooking or serving.

Notes

  • Cayenne heat varies; reduce for milder spice.
  • Chaat masala with paprika is for raw use only, avoid cooking with it.
  • DIY blend can be stored air-tight for up to three months.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!