Garam Masala Blend
Garam Masala Blend Recipe - Authentic Indian Spice Mix
Introduction
Garam Masala Blend is a popular spice mixture used in Indian cuisine to add warmth and depth of flavor to dishes. This aromatic blend is made up of a combination of ground spices, including black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and black cardamom pods.
History
Garam Masala has been used in Indian cooking for centuries and is believed to have originated in Northern India. The blend of spices varies from region to region and even from household to household, with each cook adding their own unique touch to the mixture.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp of ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp of ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp of ground cloves
- 20 – 25 black cardamom pods
How to prepare
- Grind the cardamom pod in a grinder, then pass it through a sieve to remove the husk.
- Next, place all the spices in a skillet and roast them, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds.
- Allow the spices to cool, and store them in a cool, dark place.
- The spice mixture can be kept for about 3–6 months.
Variations
- Add other spices such as cumin, coriander, or nutmeg to customize the flavor of the Garam Masala Blend.
- Toast the spices before grinding them for a more intense flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Roasting the spices before grinding them helps to enhance their flavors.
- Store the Garam Masala blend in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness.
- Use the spice mixture in small quantities to avoid overpowering the dish with its strong flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Garam Masala Blend can be used to season meats, vegetables, soups, and stews. It is commonly used in Indian dishes such as curries, biryanis, and tandoori dishes.
Cooking Techniques
Grind the cardamom pods and roast the spices in a skillet to release their flavors before storing the Garam Masala Blend in an airtight container.
Ingredient Substitutions
If black cardamom pods are not available, you can use green cardamom pods or omit them from the recipe.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare a large batch of Garam Masala Blend and store it in an airtight container for future use.
Presentation Ideas
Sprinkle Garam Masala Blend over dishes just before serving to add a pop of color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Garam Masala Blend pairs well with dishes such as chicken tikka masala, vegetable biryani, and lentil curry.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Garam Masala Blend in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 3-6 months. Reheat the spices in a skillet before using them to refresh their flavors.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
The calorie content in Garam Masala Blend is low, as it is used in small quantities to flavor dishes.
Carbohydrates
The carbohydrates content in Garam Masala Blend is minimal, as it is primarily made up of ground spices which are low in carbohydrates.
Fats
The fats content in Garam Masala Blend is also minimal, as the spices used are typically low in fats.
Proteins
Garam Masala Blend contains a small amount of protein from the ground spices used in the mixture.
Vitamins and minerals
The spices in Garam Masala Blend contain various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and calcium, which can contribute to overall health and well-being.
Alergens
Garam Masala Blend may contain allergens such as nuts or seeds, depending on the specific ingredients used in the mixture. It is important to check the labels of the spices used to ensure they are safe for consumption.
Summary
Overall, Garam Masala Blend is a low-calorie, low-fat, and low-carbohydrate spice mixture that can add flavor and depth to a variety of dishes.
Summary
Garam Masala Blend is a versatile spice mixture that can add warmth and depth to a variety of dishes. With its rich history and flavorful ingredients, this blend is a staple in Indian cuisine and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in India. I used to spend hours in the kitchen with my grandmother, watching her cook and learning all of her secrets. She was a master in the kitchen, and I was always in awe of her skill.
One day, as we were preparing for a family gathering, my grandmother pulled out a small tin of spices from the cupboard. She carefully measured out a blend of fragrant spices and began to roast them in a pan. The smell that wafted through the kitchen was intoxicating – warm and spicy, with hints of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
I watched in fascination as my grandmother ground the roasted spices into a fine powder, explaining to me the importance of each ingredient and how they all worked together to create a harmonious blend. She called it garam masala, a staple in Indian cooking that adds depth and flavor to many dishes.
As she finished the blend and stored it in a glass jar, my grandmother handed me a piece of paper with the recipe written in her elegant handwriting. She told me that this was a family secret, passed down through generations, and that it was now my responsibility to carry on the tradition.
From that day on, I made garam masala a regular part of my cooking repertoire. I would use it in curries, rice dishes, and even sprinkle it on roasted vegetables for an extra kick of flavor. Each time I made it, I would think of my grandmother and the special bond we shared in the kitchen.
Over the years, I have added my own twists to the recipe, experimenting with different ratios of spices and toasting them in unique ways. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was so dear to me.
One day, while visiting a spice market in Mumbai, I came across a shop that sold a pre-made garam masala blend. Curious to see how it compared to my homemade version, I purchased a small tin and brought it back to my kitchen.
As I opened the tin and took a whiff of the spices, I was immediately transported back to my grandmother's kitchen. The blend was similar to mine, but there was something missing – a depth and complexity that only comes from toasting and grinding the spices yourself.
I realized then that the true magic of garam masala lies not just in the blend of spices, but in the love and care that goes into making it. It is a labor of love, a connection to my past and a way to honor the traditions of my ancestors.
And so, I continue to make my own garam masala blend, just as my grandmother taught me all those years ago. Each time I roast the spices, grind them into a fine powder, and sprinkle it into a dish, I feel her presence in the kitchen with me, guiding my hand and infusing the flavors with her wisdom and love.
For me, garam masala is more than just a spice blend – it is a connection to my roots, a reminder of where I come from, and a tribute to the woman who taught me the joy of cooking. And for that, I will always be grateful.