Mixed Warm Spices (Garam Masala)

Garam masala adds a pungent, deep, spicy flavor when cooked into dishes. It is also sprinkled on curries as a garnish, resulting in a strong, rich aroma.

You can purchase prepared garam masala from an Indian store, but the flavor can vary. I prefer to mix my own so I can achieve the freshest flavor. The ingredients for garam masala are readily available in both powdered and whole form.

Ingredients
2 oz (55 g) cinnamon
2 oz (55 g) cardamom, removed from pod
2 oz (55 g) cloves
2 oz (55 g) black pepper
2 oz (55 g) aniseed flower

If possible, start with whole spices and reduce the ingredients to a fine powder in a clean coffee grinder. Combine the powders and store in a tightly sealed jar in a cool, dark place. If stored properly, this mixture will last a long time.