Make it at home

How to make Tadka Maggi at home.

Tadka Maggi takes 15 minutes and serves 1 (can be doubled). This guide gives the ingredients in cups and spoons, the steps in order and the mistakes that most often go wrong.

From the Tapri Chai kitchen · November 2026 · 2 min read

  • Time

    15 minutes

  • Serves

    1 (can be doubled)

  • Skill

    Easy

  • Method

    Boil and temper

What you need

Quantities serve 1 (can be doubled). You can use any brand of masala instant noodle.

  • 1 packet masala instant noodles with seasoning
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1 green chilli, slit
  • 1 tbsp chopped coriander
  • A squeeze of lemon (optional)

Step by step

It takes less than 15 minutes, so have everything ready.

  1. Cook the noodles

    Bring the water to a boil, add the noodles and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until tender. Add the seasoning packet and stir. Most of the water should be absorbed.

  2. Heat the butter

    In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat.

  3. Make the tadka

    Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Add the garlic and green chilli and cook for 30 to 40 seconds, until fragrant and just golden.

  4. Combine

    Pour the hot tadka over the noodles and mix well.

  5. Finish

    Scatter the coriander, add a squeeze of lemon if you like, and serve hot.

01

Tips for a better result

Small tweaks make the difference.

  • Use less water than the pack says, for a thicker, saucier noodle.
  • Do not let the garlic brown too much, or it turns bitter.
  • Add the tadka at the very end, while still sizzling.

02

Mistakes to avoid

Avoid:

  • Overcooking the noodles, which turns them soft and sticky.
  • Burning the garlic.
  • Adding too much water, which makes the dish soupy.

03

Shopping for it in Canada

This is a simple shop.

  • Noodles: masala instant noodles are sold at Indian grocers, and some supermarkets stock them in the international aisle.
  • Butter: unsalted lets you control the salt.
  • Green chilli: from any supermarket produce aisle.
  • Substitute: any plain instant noodle with a masala or chicken-free seasoning.

04

Or let us make it

It is quick to make, but the cafe version has a more generous tadka and a fresh, hot finish. Tadka Maggi is $6.99 CAD on our menu, at 200 Kennevale Dr Unit 104, Barrhaven, Ottawa, Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 11pm, closed Mondays.

Questions, answered.

How long does Tadka Maggi take to make?

About 15 minutes from start to finish for 1 (can be doubled).

Can I make Tadka Maggi ahead of time?

It is best eaten immediately. Make the tadka fresh every time.

Can I make it with other noodles?

Yes. Any instant noodle works. Season with your own masala, chilli and cumin if there is no packet.

What do I serve with Tadka Maggi?

A cup of hot chai and a squeeze of lemon.

Where can I order Tadka Maggi in Ottawa?

Tapri Chai in Barrhaven serves it. Tadka Maggi is $6.99 CAD on our menu. Tapri Chai is also listed on DoorDash and SkipTheDishes for delivery in Barrhaven and nearby parts of south Ottawa, so check which app serves your address.

At Tapri Chai

Taste it for yourself.

Our kitchen in Barrhaven is 100% vegetarian. 200 Kennevale Dr Unit 104, Ottawa. Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 11pm. Closed Mondays.