Learn how to make an authentic Homemade Garam Masala that includes a fragrant blend of Indian spices to season lentils, chicken, meat, curries and more!
Check all spices and remove any rotten pieces or dirt. Check cloves and remove any stems without buds. Break the cinnamon into smaller pieces, and clean the dirt between the grooves using a damp kitchen towel.
Add all spices except nutmeg to a large skillet. Lightly toast these spices, on medium-heat, for about 2 minutes, stirring every 20 seconds or so. The spices are done when they start releasing their aroma. Turn off the heat. Transfer to a plate to stop the toasting. Cool for 10 minutes.
Using a coffee or spice grinder, grind this mix in 3-4 batches. Give it a good shake in between to prevent spices from clumping. Grind it to a fine texture.
Grate nutmeg using a microplane and add to the spice-mix. Store in an air-tight container, in a cool and dry place.
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Notes
Clean the spices. Before starting spread the spices on a large plate and quickly sort through them. Discard any small stones or dirt.
Stick with making a small batch. This recipe makes 4 tablespoons (¼ cup) of seasoning mix. You can easily scale it up based on your consumption levels. The ground spices tend to lose their flavor after a few months, which is why I always make enough for 1-2 months.
Cool the toasted, whole spices completely before grinding. If the toasted spices are still warm when you add them to the spice grinder, the warmth will turn the spices into a paste rather than a powder.
Store in a cool, dark place. Place the ground garam masala spices a small mason jar, label, date, and store in your spice cabinet for up to 3 months.
Garam Masala Substitute. If you're in a pinch, a good substitute for Garam masala is curry powder, or, combining 1 part ground cumin with ¼ part ground allspice. This works as a good substitute for this wonderfully complex spice mix.
Store-bought Masala. Homemade garam masala beats store-bought any day. But for busier times, I always have a store-bought backup in my pantry. I have tried many brands and find the Everest Garam Masala to be a well-balanced substitute.
Note: The nutrition facts below are my estimates. If you follow any diet plan, I recommend cross-checking with your preferred nutrition calculator.