Crossword Genius

Looking back, it's a pity Dawn produced something spicy (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

masala

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'something spicy' is the definition.
I know nothing about this answer so I cannot judge whether it can be defined by this definition.

'looking back it's a pity dawn' is the wordplay.
'looking back' is a reversal indicator.
'it's a pity' becomes 'alas' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'dawn' becomes 'am' (happens in the morning).
'alas'+'am'='alasam'
'alasam' backwards is 'MASALA'.

'produced' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for masala that I've seen before include "Indian curry" , "Spice mix" , "hot dish?" , "A mixture of Indian spices" , "Spice blend" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times (Crosaire) and the Irish Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app