Garam Masala is the heart and backbone of Indian cuisine. It is not a single spice or flavor but rather a mixture of the most commonly used spices used in Indian cooking. If making your own seems like too much work, stores like Trader Joe’s and World Market sell premade mixes.

Ingredients

3 tbsp whole cumin
2 tbsp whole coriander
2 tbsp whole cardamom
2 tbsp whole black pepper
1 tbsp teaspoon whole cloves
2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions

1. Heat a dry skillet over medium high heat, and then add the cumin, coriander, cardamom, black pepper, and cloves. Toast for two minutes or until browned and fragrant, taking care not to burn the spices.
2. Place roasted spices in either a spice grinder or food processor. Grind until it becomes powder, add the cinnamon and nutmeg, pulse until everything is mixed thoroughly.
3. Place mix in an airtight container, and store in a cool, dry place.