A classic North Indian dabba
- Cumin seeds
- Mustard seeds
- Turmeric
- Red chilli powder
- Ground coriander
- Garam masala
- Asafoetida or fenugreek seeds
A South Indian dabba
Mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, cumin, turmeric, red chilli powder and asafoetida, with fresh curry leaves kept nearby.
A Bengali dabba
Panch phoron, turmeric, red chilli, cumin, nigella, mustard seeds and bay leaves.
Beyond the dabba
Keep larger whole spices (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaves, black cardamom) and kasuri methi in jars. With those and the dabba, you can cook most everyday Indian dishes. Tick off what you have in What can I cook? to see how far you can go.
