Garam Masala: What Is It and How Do I Use It?

Garam Masala is a spice mixture often used to add flavor and heat to Indian and Pakistani dishes.  There is no official list of spices in Garam Masala, but you are likely to find some combination of cardamom, chili, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, curry leaves, fennel, nutmeg, black pepper and salt.

Some cooks add Garam Masala at the beginning of cooking, but others wait till the dish is almost ready so that the flavor will be stronger.  If you are new to making Indian or Pakistani dishes, start off with 1/2 teaspoon of Garam Masala near the end of cooking. Once it has combined with the dish you are making, taste it to see if the flavor is strong enough.  If not, add another 1/2 teaspoon, stir and taste again.  Continue adding and tasting until you arrive at the flavor you like.

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