Discover the warmth and aroma of traditional Garam Masala, a beloved Indian spice blend. Made from freshly roasted, whole spices ground into a fine powder, this homemade recipe elevates the flavors of Indian curries, biryani dishes like lamb and chicken, vegetables, and more.
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the whole spices to remove any dirt, stones, or debris. Then, in a wide frying pan over medium heat, roast the coriander seeds until they become aromatic, making sure not to burn them to preserve the flavor.
After the coriander seeds are roasted, take the pan off the heat and transfer the seeds to a plate or bowl to cool down.
Next, add the rest of the spices from your recipe to the pan. Toast them over low to medium heat until they release their aroma. Once they're aromatic, remove them from the heat and transfer to a separate bowl or plate to cool.
Once all the spices have cooled to room temperature, place them in a blender and process into a fine powder.
To Use or Store
Enhance your curries, biryanis, and side dishes with this aromatic Garam Masala powder. Store it in an airtight container away from sunlight to maintain its freshness and aroma.
Notes
Maximize the quality of your homemade Garam Masala with these essential tips:
Cleanliness: Ensure your whole spices are free from stones, dirt, or debris. A thorough inspection and cleaning are crucial before use.
Proportions Matter: Stick to the recommended spice ratios for the best masala blend. Overusing potent spices can overpower the flavor and might not be digestion-friendly.
Optimal Roasting: Roast spices on low to medium heat to fully release their aromatic qualities. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
Cool Before Blending: Allow the roasted spices to cool to room temperature before grinding them into a fine powder for better consistency.
Sieve for Fineness: If your blender isn’t high-powered, sift the ground spices for an ultra-fine texture.
Substitutes: Garam Masala adds unparalleled aroma and flavor, but if unavailable, try biryani masala, store-bought chicken, mutton, or meat masala as alternatives. Check the substitute section for more spice blend options.