The Kalpasi black stone flower

Kalpasi is the type of lichen, usually used in spices for typical Chettinad and West Indian (Maharashtrian) Cuisines. Dry ground kalpasi has little or no smell and should be roasted in little oil to get its actual and full aroma.Kalpasi or black stone flower is a species of lichen used as a spice in India. One of the ingredients in East Indian Bottle Masala, the spice is mostly used in dishes like nahari, Bombay biryani, Goan meat stews.

Names of kalpasi black stone flowering  Different languages

Marathi   – Dagad Phool 

Urdu – Riham karmani 

Malayalam- adal Poove, Celeyam, Kalpuvu 

Tamil   –    Kalpasi, Marapasi

Kannada-Kalahu, Kaluhuva

Hindi-Pathar ka phool, Dagad Phool  

Kalpasi is admired because of its rich earthly, woody and smoky flavour profile which adds richness to the spice blends. It is a characteristic of Chettinad masalas, biryani mixtures, and traditional gravies, which provide a sense of depth and complexity that cannot be achieved using other spices. In low quantities, it alters the smell and flavor of food.

Buy Kalpasi online with confidence from Kerala Spices Online. Our Black Stone Flower is carefully sourced and hygienically packed to retain its natural aroma and intensity.

Key Features

• Sourcing Location: Carefully sourced from premium South Indian regions where high-quality Kalpasi naturally grows.
• Aroma & Flavour Depth: Provides a rich woody, earthy and smoky flavour that elevates traditional dishes.
• Natural Sun-Dried Processing: Sun-dried to preserve its natural potency, aroma, and flavour profile.
• No Preservatives: 100% natural product free from additives, chemicals, or artificial preservatives.
• Hygienically Packed: Cleaned and packed under strict hygiene standards to maintain freshness and safety.
• Suitable for Biryani Masala & Garam Masala Blends: Superb for elevating spice mixes, Chettinad dishes, and rich gravies.

Health Benefits of Kalpasi

• Traditionally Used in Digestive Remedies: Often included in spice blends that support healthy digestion in traditional diets.
• Rich in Natural Compounds: Contains naturally occurring bioactive components valued in traditional food practices.
• Antioxidant Properties: Known to contain antioxidant elements that help protect the body from oxidative stress.
• Anti-Inflammatory References: Referenced in traditional use for supporting the body’s natural inflammatory response.
• Supports Gut Health: Used in balanced diets to promote overall digestive wellness.

Culinary Uses of Kalpasi

• Biryani Preparation: A key ingredient in authentic biryani masalas, enhancing aroma and delivering a rich, layered flavour.
• Chettinad Curries: Widely used in Chettinad cuisine to create bold, spicy gravies with a distinctive smoky undertone.
• Masala Blends: Essential in spice mixes such as garam masala and regional masala powders for added depth.
• Gravy Depth Enhancement: Adds colour, body, and a deep earthy note to curries and gravies.
• Tempering Before Grinding: Often tempered in oil or dry-roasted before grinding with whole spices to release its full aroma.
• Powder vs Whole Usage: Can be used whole during cooking for subtle infusion or powdered for stronger flavour integration in spice blends.

How to Use Kalpasi in Cooking

• Roast Lightly Before Grinding: Gently dry-roast Kalpasi to release its smoky aroma and enhance flavour before adding to spice blends.
• Use in Small Quantities: A little goes a long way—use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Blend with Whole Spices: Combine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and fennel while grinding to create authentic masala mixes.

Storage Instructions

• Store in an Airtight Container: Keep Kalpasi in a sealed container to preserve its aroma and prevent contamination.
• Keep in a Cool, Dry Place: Store away from heat and direct sunlight to maintain flavour and quality.
• Protect from Moisture: Ensure the spice remains dry, as moisture can affect its texture and potency.
• Shelf Life Guidance: Best used within 12–18 months for optimal aroma and flavour.

Why Buy Kalpasi from Kerala Spices Online?

Choose Kerala Spices Online to get spices that are sourced directly and made in Kerala to provide high quality spices. Kalpasi is processed hygienically, well packed and shipped via fast and reliable shipping. We are a reputable online spice shop where we guarantee purity, freshness, and true South Indian flavour hence you can shop with absolute confidence and convenience.