Garam Masala Recipe (Easy & Authentic)
This Garam Masala recipe blends toasted whole spices like cumin seeds, black peppercorns, black cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaf with ground ginger and freshly grated nutmeg. The freshly ground mixture offers a fragrant warmth typical of many Indian dishes, enhancing curries, stews, and marinades with complex aroma and balanced spice.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon cumin seeds aka Jeera
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 8 black cardamom Moti Elaichi
- 1 teaspoon cloves aka Laung
- 2 cassia cinnamon each about 1.5 inches long, aka Dalchini
- 2 bay leaf Tej Patta
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger 2 gm
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg grate a little, Jaiphal
Instructions
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add all the whole spices to it (except ginger powder and nutmeg).
- Toast the spices shaking the skillet every few seconds. Turn the geat to low. Cumin will turn reddish brown and bay leaves have become brittle. The mixture will also become fragrant.
- Transfer immediately to a bowl to cool. You don't want the spices to overcook and burn.
- Once the spices are completely cooled, then transfer to a spice/coffee grinder. Add the ginger powder and grind to a powder. Grate 1/4 tsp nutmeg and fold it in.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place.
Notes
- Allow the toasted whole spices to cool completely before grinding to prevent moisture buildup and spoilage.
- Store the garam masala powder in an airtight container away from light and heat to preserve aroma.
- Even though stored garam masala won't spoil quickly, making fresh batches every 2 to 4 weeks keeps the spice blend vibrant and flavorful.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 1 Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 146
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 146kcal | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Sodium | 29mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 526mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 12g | 48% |
| Vitamin A | 205IU | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 4.3mg | 5% |
| Calcium | 287mg | 29% |
| Iron | 12.1mg | 67% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.