We have enjoyed the combination of spices known as ‘garam masala’ since childhood. This mixture of exotic spices is usually used more in winter for its warming qualities, since it raises the body temperature. The amount of spice in the masala can be controlled.
The garam masala is said to contain the 6 essential tastes for a perfectly balanced dish.
The heart of any dish depends on the spices used. The flavour is affected by the utensils used, preparation and cooking time, and also the aroma and flavour of the mixture of spices.
While dried masala may be stored in an airtight container for use for several months.
Health Benefits
One tbsp (10g) of garam masala contains 31 calories.
The ingredients in garam masala helps remove accumulated toxins in the tissues.
Garam masala also helps to improve the immune system, speeds up the process of weight loss, alleviates pain, maintains sugar levels and supports the digestive process.
Ingredients
cup coriander seeds: 1/2
cup cumin seeds: 1/4
green cardamom pods: 25-30
cloves: 15-20
mace: 6-8
Nutmeg: 1
cinnamon sticks (2 inches long): 5-6
florets star anise: 2
fennel: 1 tbsp
peppercorn: 1 tsp
tbsp khus khus (sesame): 2
bay leaves: 10
How To Make Garam Masala
- Rinse all the ingredients and dry thoroughly in the sunlight.
- Remove all impurities from the dry masala.
- Heat a tawa and roast the dry spices for about 2 minutes.
- Allow to cool at room temperature.
- Grind the spice in a dry grinder.
- Sieve the masala and store the dry powder in an airtight container.
- Set any coarse particles aside to be used later as chai masala.
- Store it in an airtight jars
Trivia
In India, spices have been a part of Indian cuisine and medicine since ancient times. Spices also serve as effective preservatives; a few cloves in your sugar jar can keep ants away and a few leaves of basil under your pillow prevents headlice infestation!
Garam masala can also be blended with herbs and made into a paste by mixing with water.The masala may also be roasted to release the aroma in the food.