Recipe for Garam Masala

Garam Masala is an incredibly versatile Pakistani spice blend that can elevate the taste of a diverse array of culinary creations. It is made with roasted and ground whole spices. Ever since I started making this, I have said goodbye to the store-bought versions forever.

• 2 tbsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp coriander seeds

• 2 tbsp cumin

• 4 cloves

• 3 to 4 black cardamom

• 3 to 4 green cardamom seeds

• 2 pieces of 3-inch sticks of cinnamon

• 1 star anise

• Pinch of nutmeg powder

• 1 dried bay leaf

Dry roast all the above ingredients on a skillet before grinding them in a coffee grinder & voila! a perfectly aromatic ‘garam masala’ is at your disposal.

A pinch of garam masala is a game changer for a lot of South Asian food. This spice gives your dish an intense flavor. Whether you are cooking lentils, kebabs, mince, curries or vegetarian dishes; a hint of garam masala will go a long way.

Raita with garam masala is absolutely divine! Whisk some yogurt until the texture is creamy. Add in cucumbers ( cut up into tiny pieces), a pinch of salt, some dried mint, a dash of black pepper & garam masala.