Easy Garam Masala

There's no need to buy store-bought garam masala when you have all the ingredients you need to make the spice blend at home! This easy garam masala recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

What Is Garam Masala?

Garam masala is an Indian spice blend. Garam means "hot" while masala means "spices," but it's not necessarily hot and spicy — the name refers to the warm flavors of its ingredients, such as cinnamon and cumin.

Learn more: What Is Garam Masala?

What Is In Garam Masala?

These are the ground spices you'll need to make this garam masala recipe at home:

• Cumin
• Coriander
• Cardamom
• Black pepper
• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Nutmeg

How to Make Garam Masala

It couldn't be easier to make garam masala at home: Simply mix all the ingredients together and stir until well-combined. That's it!

How to Use Garam Masala

Garam masala is usually added toward the end of cooking so that it seasons the dish and adds its aroma. In need of some recipe inspiration? Explore our collection of 10 Recipes to Make with Garam Masala. Here’s a preview of what you’ll find:

• Chicken Biryani
• Indian Butter Chicken (Makhani Chicken)
• Palak Paneer Curry

How to Store Homemade Garam Masala

Store the garam masala in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place (such as a pantry or spice cabinet) for up to six months.

Cookdap Community Tips and Praise

“I loved this stuff,” raves Gitana. “I used whole spices though, roasted them together on dry pan until you could smell the aroma and then ground them all up. Was perfect on chicken tandoori and pulav.”

“I always have some garam masala blend in my spice rack to kick up a spice rub for pork or chicken or to use in Indian dishes,” says Robin Ann Donnelly. “Versatile and yummy!”

“Tastes great on roasts, chicken, lamb, and just about anything,” according to Mary L. “I do occasionally sprinkle in a bit of cayenne for a bit of heat. Everyone loves it when I make a roast with this seasoning.”