Reviewing the Genie Jars: Dahi Baray Masala

Dahi Baray is a Pakistani snack dish. It is popular in all regions and is widely enjoyed in every household, especially in Ramadan.

A traditional Dahi Baray recipe includes lentil fritters soaked in yogurt. These fritters can vary in shape, ingredients, and taste depending on one’s preferences. One common thing in all these Dahi Baray recipes is Dahi Baray Masala. This small ingredient is one of the essential parts of creating an authentic Dahi Baray. 

Most people confuse Dahi Baray Masala with Chaat Masala however, true food experts know how distinct one is from another, in terms of taste as well as texture.Dahi Baray masala has roasted cumin and coriander seeds whereas chaat masala is made with grounded spices. Both Dahi Baray Masala and Chaat Masala have distinct tastes. Dahi Baray Masala has a coarse texture whereas, Chaat Masala has finely grounded spices. 

I love making Dahi Baray at home. It is easy to prepare and is enjoyed by everyone, from kids to adults. And it is also important for me to ensure that I use as authentic flavoring to make my Dahi Barays as possible. 

In quest of finding the perfect fit for my taste buds, I searched aisle to aisle and found the following two being available in the market. 

1. Shan Dahi Baray Masala
2. Freshmate Dahi Baray Masala

I have also rated the following based on packaging, availability, shelf life and price value for money.

My Top Picks

Freshmate Dahi Baray Masala 

These spice mixes come packed in plastic, easy to sprinkle and dash packaging. I love that it is easy to carry as well as to store. It is mildly spicy compared to Shan Dahi Baray masala. Freshmate Dahi Baray Masala is widely available and has a shelf life of over 6 months.

Shan Dahi Baray Masala 

I have been using Shan Dahi Baray Masala in my household for a very long time and this is why I can confidently say that these spice mixes are very authentic, rich yet consistent for years. These packets are widely available and have a shelf life of more than  6 months. 

Things I Look for Before Buying My Refill of Dahi Baray Masalas

Packaging

A well-designed packaging is always a plus whenever I am looking for spice mixes. Whenever picking a Dahi Baray Masla I would prefer an easy to carry and sprinkle packaging since it is compact and I do not have to worry about spillage.

Availability

No matter how authentic or delicious one spice mix might be, I would never go to a faraway store just to purchase a spice mix only. So, it is important for me that it is available at my nearby local grocery store.

FAQs

What do we call Dahi Baray in English?

Dahi baray are lentil fritters or dumplings soaked in yogurt.

What is the difference between Dahi Vada and Dahi Bhalla?

Dahi Bhalle and Dahi Vada are two variations of the same dish, a fritter made with yogurt. 

The major difference being that Dahi Bhalle (the north Indian version) and Dahi Vada (the south Indian variation) are the main ingredients used to make fritters.

Dahi bhalle fritters are made with lentils, whereas Dahi Vada  are made with potato fritters.

Who invented Dahi Bhalle?

Mughal Khansamas in the 18th century prepared this delicacy snack made with lentils in the Mughal Kitchens using curd, herbs and spices to improve digestion.