Natural Food Colouring: 7 Traditional Methods Without Artificial Additives

Imagine a world where your food is not just a feast for your taste buds, but a visual masterpiece that rivals the most exquisite Mughal miniatures. This isn't a far-fetched dream, but a reality that has roots deep in our culinary history. From the royal kitchens of Mughal empress Nur Jahan to the humble homes of modern-day food enthusiasts, natural food colouring has been transforming ordinary meals into extraordinary works of art.

7 Traditional Methods for Natural Food Colouring

Turmeric

This everyday spice can transform your dishes with its stunning yellow hue. As food historian notes, "Turmeric has been used for centuries not just for its flavour, but for its ability to impart a sunny glow to everything from rice to desserts."

Tea Bag and Amla

For a rich, dark brown tinge in dishes like Chhole, simply drop a tea bag or dried amla into your pressure cooker. This technique, popular in Northern India, adds depth to both colour and flavour.

Walnut Shells

In Himachal Pradesh, charred and pounded walnut shells lend a dramatic, almost black colour to local delicacies like renta and khatta meat.

Ratan Jot (Alkanet Root)

This traditional colourant, popular in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Kashmir, blooms into a deep crimson when infused in oil. It's nature's answer to artificial red food dye.

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Mawal Flower

The cockscomb flower, known as mawal in Kashmir, lends its velvety red hue to many Indian dishes. It's a testament to the rich biodiversity of our culinary traditions.

Saffron and Red Sandalwood

For a beautiful sunset hue in desserts, try steeping saffron or red sandalwood powder in milk. As one pastry chef explains, "It's like capturing twilight in a bowl."

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Kokum

Sun-dried kokum rinds impart a lovely pink-purple colour and tangy taste to dishes. The iconic pink of sol kadi owes its allure to this versatile fruit.

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As we rediscover these natural colouring techniques, we're not just adding visual appeal to our meals. We're also connecting with our culinary heritage and embracing a more natural approach to food preparation. So the next time you're in the kitchen, why not try your hand at creating a masterpiece worthy dish? Your plate is your canvas, and nature provides the most vibrant palette imaginable.

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