Simple Garam Masala

GARAM MASALA IS THE MAIN SPICE MIX USED IN ALMOST ALL INDIAN DISHES. THIS IS AN EASY VERSION TO START WITH. NEXT, YOU CAN ADD FURTHER WHOLE SPICES AND EVEN DRY-ROAST THEM IN THE OVEN BEFORE GRINDING.

MAKES 2 TABLESPOONS
PREPARATION TIME: ABOUT 5–8 MINUTES

SPICES

1 teaspoon black peppercorns

1 teaspoon cloves

5cm piece cassia or cinnamon stick

seeds of 20 green cardamom pods

seeds of 2–3 black cardamom pods

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

NOTE

Take the seeds from the cardamom first, then use a mortar and pestle to grind into a fine powder.

1. Use a mortar and pestle to grind all the ingredients into a powder. Place the mixture in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and use within a month.