So this year I have decided to take a page out of my mothers book and prep some Salan Masala. I make mine in the Instant Pot because it is so much faster and have tried it a few times in different dishes and am SO pleased with the results.
Is Instant Pot Salan Masala the Same as Making it Fresh?
Short answer: no. As any Pakistani cook knows flavour starts with the onions. The translucent onion is the perfect base for a cleaner curry, the slightly golden one provides the caramelly undertones in another and the deep brown ones give richness to Kormas and Pulaos alike. When you batch cook a masala it won’t have all those subtleties but it is such a huge time saver that it is totally worth it! When you make an Instant Pot Salan Masala you are picking one style. My suggestion: stick to the one you use the post. In my case I have made two batches - one darker Korma style for pulaos and deeper curries and a second milder one for every day chicken curries and Aaloo Gosht.
How Do I Customize the Masala?
Think hard about the food you eat the most. If you never ever make a curry without tomatoes, add a few in when putting the Instant Pot on Manual. If your curries always have coriander powder go ahead and put it in, but if they do not then skip it or just put a little.
How do I use the Salan Masala?
In a nutshell - depending on how much curry you like - for one pound of beef/chicken heat ¾-1 cup of the salan masala on the stove. Add the meat, saute, add water, bring to a boil and cook till tender. For my Aaloo Gosht I tossed in two tomatoes, the salan masala and the meat in the IP and cooked on manual for 20 then quick released. For a Pulao you would use a similar approach. As with any curry what you add towards the end is key. A pinch of methi gives a sweeter flavour, garam masala adds depth, cilantro freshness, cumin powder a more rounded taste. Liked this recipe? Show me your creations by tagging me on instagram @flourandspiceblog and please rate the recipe by clicking on the recipe rating below! Save it for later by pinning it below!
