Garam Masala

Garam masala is an aromatic blend of spices from India, taken from the words garam, meaning hot or warming, and masala, meaning spice blend. The exact blend of spices used traditionally depends on local or regional tastes; however, ready-made mixes usually contain the following:

• bay leaves
• cardamom
• cinnamon
• cloves
• coriander seeds
• cumin seeds
• mace
• peppercorns

Some varieties may also include fennel seeds, ginger, nutmeg or turmeric.

Garam masala may either be mixed to a paste with water and added to curries or eaten as a condiment. It may also be used as a powder, sprinkling it over curries, spicy dishes and grilled or roasted meats just before the end of cooking. It may also be added into cooked rice or stirred into yoghurt.