Chief's Amchar Masala, 8oz

Amchar Masala: A Trinidadian mixture using many of the spices used in Indian pickling. Here they are roasted first, acquiring a dark color and an intense flavor. This mixture is often sprinkled in toward the end of the cooking period.

Makes about 8 Tablespoons

4 tablespoons whole coriander seeds
1 tablespoon whole cumin seeds
2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
1 teaspoon whole fennel seeds
1 teaspoon whole brown mustard seeds
1 teaspoon whole fenugreek seeds

Put all the spices in a small, cast-iron frying pan and set over medium heat. Stir and roast for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the spices turn a shade darker. Remove from the pan, allow to cool, and then grind as a finely as possible in a clean coffee or spice grinder. Empty into an airtight jar and store in a dark cupboard.