If you’ve ever tasted an authentic Kashmiri Rogan Josh or Yakhni and wondered, “Yeh laal rang ka jaadu kahan se aata hai?” the answer is simple – Kashmiri Cockscomb Spice, which is locally called Mawal.
Kashmiri mawal powder is more than just a spice – it’s a part of Kashmir’s culinary heritage which adds depth, colour, and a glimplse of nostalgia to all indian traditional dishes.
What is Mawal ?
Mawal powder comes from the cockscomb flower (Celosia Cristata), known for its bright crimson petals and rich natural pigment. These petals are dried in the kitchen and is powdered to create the Kashmiri Cockscomb Powder that everyone knows and loves.In Kashmir, if you locally ask for Mawal, you might hear people say:
“Yeh asli hai, dalte hi rogan josh lal ho jayega!” (And this is real – the moment you add it, Rogan Josh turns red!)
History & Cultural Significance in Kashmir:
Kashmiri Mawal has been a part of Famous Kashmiri Wazwan – the royal Kashmiri feast – for centuries. It enhances gravies without altering the taste in wazwan from generations . Whether you’re recreating Kashmiri cuisine at home or simply adding a rich red hue to your food, Kashmiri Mawal Powder is the ingredient you didn’t know you needed. Its role isn’t just about taste, it’s about tradition.Mawal Flower was grown in almost every home gardens in old days as a sign of hospitality.
The Mawal spice traditional Kashmir ingredients list places it alongside saffron (kong), and dry ginger (shonth), all pillars of Kashmiri cuisine.
Benefits of Kashmiri Cockscomb Powder:
Beyond its beauty in almost every dish, benefits of Kashmiri cockscomb powder include:
- Natural Colouring – Gives dishes a deep crimson hue without artificial additives.
- Great Flavour Enhancer – Adds a subtle earthly undertone.
- Health Booster – Mawal is a source of protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium, it is also rich in plant pigments (betacyanins) with antioxidant properties.
- Digestive Support – Cockscomb powder is also used to aid digestion and promote gut health.
- Supports Eye Health – As mawal is rich in Vitamin A. It is important for maintaining good vision and overall eye health.
- Vegan & Natural – 100% plant-based alternative to chemical food colours.
Kashmiri Cockscomb Spice (Mawal) Uses in Cooking:
Traditionally, Mawal is used in:
- Rogan Josh – The crown of Kashmiri cuisine (wazwan).
- Yakhni – Yogurt-based mutton or chicken gravy.
- Dum Aloo – A vegetarian favourite.
Modern cooking also include fusion recipes like red-coloured naan breads or gourmet paneer gravies.
Pro Tip: Whether you’re making a Kashmiri cuisine or any of your favourite indian dish, don’t forget Kashmiri Lal Mirch for an extra layer of flavour!
Kashmiri Cockscomb Powder Recipe Ideas in India:
- Mawal Tea – Herbal, deep red, and aromatic.
- Paneer Tikka – Adds visual appeal.
- Vegetarian Gravy – Perfect for festive cooking.
- Fusion Dishes – Try in red pasta sauce for a Kashmiri twist.
Mawal flower powder isn’t just a spice, it’s a piece of Kashmir’s cultural and culinary identity. Whether you’re making a Rogan Josh or experimenting other great Indian dishes (veg and non-veg), Kashmiri Cockscomb Powder adds unmatched authenticity.
Ready to bring real wazwan magic to your kitchen?
Buy Crimson’s Pure Kashmiri Cockscomb Powder Now!