The King of all Spice Mix - Garam Masala
In today’s blog, we’re going to dive into one of the most essential spice blends in Indian cooking — Garam Masala. This aromatic, flavorful blend can elevate any dish, whether it’s a comforting curry, a zesty rice dish, or even grilled vegetables.
Garam Masala translates to “hot spice mix” in Hindi, but it doesn’t necessarily mean spicy. Instead, it’s a warm blend of spices that adds a depth of flavor to a variety of dishes. Every family has its own version, and the proportions of spices can differ based on region and personal taste.
How to Make Garam Masala from Scratch
Ingredients You'll Need:
2 tbsp Cumin Seeds (Jeera)
2 tbsp Coriander Seeds (Dhania)
1 tbsp Black Peppercorns (Kali Mirch)
1 tbsp Cloves (Laung)
1-2 Cinnamon Sticks (Dalchini)
2-3 Green Cardamom Pods (Elaichi)
1 tsp Fennel Seeds (Saunf)
1-2 Bay Leaves (Tej Patta)
1/2 tsp Ground Nutmeg (Jaiphal)
How to Make It:
Dry Roast the Whole Spices
Start by dry roasting the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom, fennel seeds, and bay leaves in a pan over low-medium heat. Keep stirring occasionally for 3-4 minutes, or until the spices release a fragrant aroma. Don’t burn them — just toast them lightly to bring out the oils.Cool Down
After roasting, transfer the spices to a plate and let them cool for 5 minutes. It’s important they cool down before grinding so the blend maintains its aroma.Grind the Spices
Once the spices are cool, use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle to grind them into a fine powder. Add the ground nutmeg to the mix and continue grinding until everything is well combined.Store Your Garam Masala
Once ground, transfer your garam masala to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. It’ll stay fresh for 2-3 months. For the most flavorful results, use it within the first month.
How to Use Your Homemade Garam Masala in 2-Minute Dishes
Now that you’ve got your own homemade garam masala, let’s get cooking! Here are quick 2-minute dishes you can whip up using your spice mix:
1. Quick Garam Masala Rice
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked rice
1 tsp garam masala
1 tbsp butter or ghee
Salt to taste
Method:
Heat the butter or ghee in a pan for about 30 seconds.
Add the garam masala and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the rice and stir well to coat the rice evenly with the spices.
Season with salt and serve immediately.
Tip: Garnish with cilantro or fried onions for an extra touch!
2. Garam Masala Raita
Ingredients:
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/2 tsp garam masala
1/4 tsp roasted cumin powder (optional)
Salt to taste
Chopped cucumber (optional)
Method:
Mix yogurt and garam masala in a bowl.
Add salt and roasted cumin powder, and stir to combine.
Add chopped cucumber (optional) for a refreshing touch.
Serve chilled with biryani, rice, or parathas.
3. Spicy Roasted Vegetables with Garam Masala
Ingredients:
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, cauliflower, etc.)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garam masala
Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Toss the vegetables with olive oil, garam masala, salt, and pepper.
Roast for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden.
Serve as a side or snack!
4. Garam Masala Masala Eggs
Ingredients:
2 boiled eggs
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp butter
Salt to taste
Method:
Melt butter in a pan.
Add garam masala and cook for 30 seconds.
Add the boiled eggs, cut in half, and cook for another minute.
Season with salt and serve.
Garam Masala Variations You Can Try
Spicy Garam Masala: Increase the amount of black pepper and chili powder.
Sweet Garam Masala: Add a touch of cinnamon and cardamom for a sweeter profile.
Mild Garam Masala: Reduce the heat by cutting down on pepper and chili powder.
The Spice of Life — Garam Masala
There you have it! Your own homemade garam masala ready to make your meals burst with flavor. Whether you’re making a simple rice dish or a quick soup, this spice mix is the ultimate shortcut to tasty food. Keep experimenting and enjoy the magic of Indian spices in your kitchen!
