Garam masala is a blend of ground spices, originating from the Indian subcontinent, common in cuisines from the Indian subcontinent, Mauritius and South Africa. It is used alone or with other seasonings.

Ingredients

Typical ingredients for a garam masala (clockwise from upper left): black peppercorns, mace, cinnamon, cloves, black cardamom, nutmeg, and green cardamom

The composition of garam masala differs regionally, with many recipes across the Indian subcontinent according to regional and personal taste, and none is considered more authentic than others. The components of the mix are toasted, then ground together.

A typical Indian version of garam masala contains (with Hindi names in parenthesis):

• Fennel (saunf)
• Black and white peppercorns (kali/safed mirch)
• Cloves (lavang)
• Cinnamon or cassia bark (dalchini)
• Mace (outer covering of nutmeg) (javitri)
• Black and green cardamom pods (elaichi)
• Cumin (jeera)
• Coriander (dhania)

Yup, your homemade Garam masala is ready now. Add it to your spices list to cook food 🙂