Garam Masala is an aromatic blend of spices used in a lot of Indian and Indian-inspired recipes. You can easily make this seasoning at home with just 7 ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
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Garam Masala is the only spice blend that I’ve had a hard time finding in the grocery stores that I frequent.
I started making my own seasonings, to get them just the way I like, so I’ve now done the same for this blend. I always have the ingredients needed on hand making it easy to make this spice anytime I need.
You can use this homemade Garam Masala the same way you would any store-bought variation. My personal favorite recipe to use it in is Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) or Butter Paneer (Paneer Makhani).
Why This Recipe Works
This is a very easy spice mixture to make. All you need to do is measure out the spices you need and mix them together.
This is an extremely flavorful blend of spices. It’s made with aromatic spices with strong flavors such as cumin, cinnamon and cardamom.
As with all homemade spice mixtures, you have full control over how it tastes. Adjust the amount of individual spices, add other types that arenāt in it that you prefer, or omit a spice you may not care for.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon ground cumin
- 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3 teaspoons black pepper
- 3 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
The entire recipe and instructions can also be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. You can also print the recipe from the card, if needed.
Chef’s Note: cloves and nutmeg are more for aroma and can be omitted if you don’t have them on hand or don’t care for them.
Prep!
There is no significant prep work for this recipe.
Create!
Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and mix until well combined.
Present!
Store in a jar with a lid away from direct sunlight.
Use by the earliest expiration date on the individual jars of herbs and spices used.
Tips and Techniques
- Use fresh, dried herbs and spices for the best results.
- If you donāt have or donāt like an ingredient, you can easily adjust this recipe to suite your own tastes.
- Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Use by the earliest expiration date on the individual jars of herbs and spices used.
FAQ’s
What Is In Garam Masala?
Garam masala is a spice blend that can vary greatly. Most store-bought blends contain cumin, cinnamon, black pepper, coriander, cardamom and cloves. Some other ingredients that may be included are nutmeg, star anise, mace, turmeric and bay leaves.
What Can Be Used As A Substitute For Garam Masala?
If you don’t have garam masala on hand, or the ingredients needed to make your own, Curry Powder is the best substitute.
More Homemade Spice Mixtures
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Garam Masala
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon ground cumin
- 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3 teaspoons black pepper
- 3 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and mix until well combined.2 tablespoon ground cumin, 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 3 teaspoons black pepper, 3 teaspoons ground coriander, 2 teaspoons ground cardamom, 1 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Use as needed.
- Store in a jar with a lid away from direct sunlight.
Notes
Tips and Techniques
- Use fresh, dried herbs and spicesĀ for the best results.
- If you donāt have or donāt like an ingredient,Ā you can easily adjust this recipe to suite your own tastes.
- Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.Ā Use by the earliest expiration date on the individual jars of herbs and spices used.
Eden says
This replaced my store bought jar. So easy and simple to put together but wayyyyyy more flavorful and fragrant, why would I ever go back? Love it!
Jamie says
I love this homemade version of garam masala! It’s so much better than store bought and I can really taste all the spices. I sprinkled some on popcorn – amazing!
Veronika says
Making homemade spices is my favorite. So much better than store bough! I love putting garam masala in roasted nuts. So good
Julie says
I was looking for a way to make my own spice blend with these spices and this turned out perfect. Saving it in a bottle for future cooking days!
Jacqueline Debono says
I also have a problem finding ready garam masala where I live. So I was super happy to discover your homemade version.
Loreto and Nicoletta says
This is such a wonderful post. Truthfully I have always been afraid to make Garum masala. You have made it look so easy, I definately now want to try. I will let you know how it goes! Thanks for sharing!
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DK says
Great blend! I love making tikka masala and this garam masala is perfect for that!
Sean B says
This is one of those spice blends that you can very rarely find at the store. I have had to order mine online. I love the balance of the garam masala in your recipe.
Krystle says
I left out the clove like you suggested and it came out perfect. So much cheaper than store bought