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This authentic homemade Garam Masala Spice Mix introduces an incredibly fragrant and flavorful seasoning blend brought to you from the Indian cuisine.
Spice seeds of cinnamon, cumin, coriander, Nutmeg, Green and Black Cardamom, peppercorns, cloves, and dried red chiles toasted whole, then grounded down into a fine fragrant powder.
This Garam Masala Spice Mix would make a perfect final seasoning touch to any Indian-inspired meal.
What Is Garam Masala Spice Mix?
To put it simply, the Garam Masala Spice Mix is a complex medley of spices. It is considered an essential spice blend in the Indian cuisine used to season many dishes.
The spice blend’s name translates to “warming spices”. It is believed that it helps warm the body and increase metabolism, in addition to many other health benefits properties.
The Garam Masala Spice Mix holds many variations depending on the region, household, and of course one’s personal preferences. This is why each variation is special and relevant in its own way.
How to Use Garam Masala Spice Mix?
More often than not, we find ourselves staring at random jars of exotic spices stacked on the pantry shelf waiting for their 5 minutes of fame. Well, let’s give your Garam Masala Spice Mix the attention it deserves with the following flavorful spiced-filled recipes!
Chicken Tikka Masala: This popular Indian dish is packed with cubed chicken, potatoes, and onions infused with spices and simmered in a creamy sauce.
Lentil Soup: This one introduces a combo of flavors of the earthy lentils, the hint of beef, the sautéed onions, and the richness of the spices.
Some people might use it as vegetable seasoning (cauliflower or potatoes, with chicken recipes, eggs, or even in deserts (ice cream or cakes).
Tips for Satisfactory Results
Tip 1: For an easier version, use powder spices instead of seeds. Simply mix everything together, then store them in an airtight container or a spice jar.
Tip 2: This spice mix can be tailored to your specific tastes. If you feel that adding any other spice to the mix might enhance the taste, then feel free to experiment with it!
Tip 3: If you are using spice seeds, make sure you clean them thoroughly just in case you are dealing with chemically treated products. This removes any infestations and prolongs shelf life.
Tip 4: If you are short on any ingredient, then indulge in a just-as-tasty Garam Masala substitute. Simply mix 1-part cumin with ¼ part allspice. And if you think about their individual components, you will realize that the blend actually makes sense!
Frequently Asked Questions
Despite the fact that Garam Masala is Indian and curry is a British invention, Garam Masala has a sweet spicy taste and is used as a final touch in a dish, while curry powder is mainly based around turmeric, and is used in the early cooking process.
There are so many variations of this spice mix, that its flavor profile differs from one region to another. However, be prepared to expect some sweet earthy spicy tanginess from all those different spices.
Store your homemade Garam Masala Spice mix in an airtight container, or spice jar, at room temperature for up to 4 months. You can also refrigerate it for 6 months, and freeze it for a whole year.
The Spices You Will Need
- cinnamon sticks
- cumin seeds
- coriander seeds
- Nutmeg (or Mace)
- Green and Black Cardamom
- peppercorns
- cloves
- dried red chiles
Follow The Instructions
First, toast the seeds in a skillet over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally for about 10 minutes, or until crackling, fragrant, and well toasted.
Next, allow the toasted seeds to cool for a few minutes, then grind them in a blender, or a spice grinder, until they turn into fine powder.
Finally, store your homemade Garam Masala spice in an airtight container or a spice jar. Sprinkle it over your favorite meals and enjoy!
Homemade Spice Blends: Garam Masala Spice Mix
Ingredients
- 2 sticks cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh nutmeg
- 10 green cardamom pods
- 8 black cardamom pods
- 15 cloves
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 2 dried red chiles
Instructions
- Toast the seeds in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Stir occasionally for about 10 minutes, or until crackling, fragrant, and well toasted.
- Allow the toasted seeds to cool for a few minutes.
- Grind them in a blender, or a spice grinder, until they turn into fine powder.
- Store your homemade Garam Masala spice in an airtight container or a spice jar. Sprinkle it over your favorite meals and enjoy!
Notes
- For an easier version, use powder spices instead of seeds. Simply mix everything together, then store them in an airtight container or a spice jar.
- This spice mix can be tailored to your specific tastes. If you feel that adding any other spice to the mix might enhance the taste, then feel free to experiment with it!
- If you are using spice seeds, make sure you clean them thoroughly just in case you were dealing with chemically treated products. This removes any infestations and prolongs shelf life.
- If you are short on any ingredient, then indulge in a just-as-tasty Garam Masala substitute. Simply mix 1-part cumin with ¼ part allspice. And if you think about their individual components, you will realize that this blend actually makes sense!
