MELTING POT

Delightful compendiums that showcase the breathtaking range of Indian food

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MASALAMANDI

A Guide to the World of Indian Spice Blends By Sadaf Hussain PENGUIN VIKING ₹999; 568 pages

Not ot only is Chef Sadaf Hussain's tour de force a treasure trove of spice mixes from across the length and breadth of India-from Khotachiwadi East Indian Bottle Masala to Madras Curry Powder, Mrs Beeton's Indian Curry Powder, masala chai spice blends and an array of chaat and garam masalas-there are recipes, too, for dishes where the spice mix is fundamental to their identity. These include biryanis, kababs, pickles, curries and more. Gourmands like Ranveer Brar and Pushpesh Pant, too, have generously shared their blends.