Indian Tandoori Marinade

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mace blades
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 4 cardamom pods
• 2 whole cloves
• 1/2 cinnamon stick (about 1 inch)
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 tablespoon hot water
• 1 small onion, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 6 slices (each 1/4 inch thick) peeled fresh ginger, coarsely chopped
• 2 jalapeño peppers, preferably red, seeded and coarsely chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups plain whole milk yogurt, preferably Greek-style
• 2 teaspoons coarse salt (sea or kosher)
• 2 to 4 drops orange food coloring (optional)