Indian
recipes often list “garam masala” as an ingredient however, it’s not actually one
item but rather a blend of spices pre-made into one ingredient. Garam masala
can be purchased from the grocery store or made at home. Depending on who you
ask, you will get a different answer on how to create garam masala.
The word “garam” means “hot”. The spices
contained in garam masala are believed to heat the body hence the name. Garam masala does not actually contain a
spicy ingredient but rather, the spices blended together create an aromatic
scent and intense flavour.
My preference is to use a small blender or
coffee grinder to blend the spices together to create fresh homemade garam
masala. I use black peppercorns, cinnamon,
cloves and whole cardamom in my garam masala recipe however some recipes for
garam masala also include coriander, cumin and nutmeg. It all depends on your preference.
By grinding these spices together into a blend,
immense flavour will be released into the dish that you are preparing and will
likely “heat the body” which feels great and tastes delicious!
Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook and Instagram for more tips, ideas and recipes!
xo Jasmine
