My garam masala recipe.

Garam masala is a popular spice blend used in Indian cooking to add flavor and warmth to various dishes. The exact composition of garam masala can vary based on regional preferences and individual recipes, but it generally includes a combination of aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, coriander, and black peppercorns. Here’s a basic recipe for making garam masala at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons whole coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon whole cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon whole cardamom pods
• 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1 small cinnamon stick (about 2 inches)
• 1 teaspoon grated nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat a dry skillet or pan over medium heat.
2. Add all the whole spices (coriander seeds, cumin seeds, cardamom pods, black peppercorns, cloves, and cinnamon stick) to the skillet.
3. Toast the spices for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. The spices will become fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them.
4. Remove the spices from the heat and let them cool down completely.
5. Once the spices are cool, transfer them to a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Add the grated nutmeg if using.
6. Grind the spices until you achieve a fine powder. You may need to do this in batches if using a small grinder.
7. Once ground, sift the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any larger pieces. Grind the larger pieces again and sift as needed.
8. Transfer the finely ground garam masala to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Tips:

• Feel free to adjust the proportions of spices to suit your taste preferences.
• You can experiment with other spices like fennel seeds, bay leaves, and star anise for additional flavor.
• Homemade garam masala tends to have a fresher and more vibrant flavor compared to store-bought versions, which might have been sitting on the shelf for a while.

Remember that garam masala is typically added towards the end of cooking to preserve its aromatic qualities. It can be used in a wide range of dishes, including curries, stews, lentil dishes, rice pilafs, and more. Just a small amount can go a long way in enhancing the flavor of your dishes.