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Authentic 20-Minute Garam Masala Recipe

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4 from 10 reviews

This Authentic 20-Minute Garam Masala recipe guides you through toasting and grinding whole spices for a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful Indian spice blend. Perfect for enhancing curries, vegetables, and meats with a fresh, vibrant taste, this easy homemade blend is superior to store-bought alternatives and can be stored for up to three months.

Ingredients

Whole Spices

  • 2 tbsp (8 g) coriander seeds (sookha dhaniya)
  • 2 tbsp (16 g) cumin seeds (zeera)
  • 1 tbsp (8 g) black peppercorns (kaali mirch)
  • 3/4 tsp (2 g) whole cloves (loung)
  • 3/4 tsp (2 g) fennel seeds (saunf)
  • 2 black cardamom pods (bari elaichi)
  • 1-2 whole star anise (2 g) (badiyan ka phool)
  • 2 dried bay leaves, 3-inch pieces (tez patta)
  • 1 cinnamon stick, 3-inch (4 g) (darchini), broken into pieces
  • 10 green cardamom pods (1 g), seeds removed and shells discarded (~1/2 tsp seeds)
  • 1 mace blade, 1 inch (optional) (javitri)
  • 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg (optional) (jaiphul)

Instructions

  1. Toast Spices: Heat a medium skillet over low-medium heat. Add all the spices except nutmeg. Stir and shake the skillet often for 3-4 minutes until the spices deepen in color and become aromatic; bay leaves and cinnamon will appear dry and brittle. Avoid over-toasting to prevent bitterness.
  2. Add Nutmeg: Remove the skillet from heat. If using nutmeg, grate a generous pinch into the toasted spices. Allow the spices to cool completely.
  3. Grind Spices: Transfer cooled spices to a spice grinder using a spice funnel if available. Grind to a fine powder, stopping intermittently to redistribute for an even grind.
  4. Store Spice Powder: Transfer the ground garam masala to an airtight spice jar. Seal and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months to preserve freshness.

Notes

  • Garam Masala proportions can be adjusted to personal taste; it is not an exact formula. Feel free to experiment with different quantities or omit some spices.
  • If you have a whole nutmeg pod, crack it using a mortar and pestle; add a small piece (~1/8th pod) to the blend instead of pre-ground nutmeg for enhanced freshness and flavor.