Garam Masala

spices · Indian food · cooking

A spice mix. Garam masala is a blend of ground spices that comes from India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Different families and regions make it their own way, so every mix is a little different.

Warm and fragrant. The word garam means warm in Sanskrit, because these spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves make your whole mouth feel warm and cozy when you eat them.

Many flavor layers. Instead of using one spice at a time, cooks mix together things like cumin, peppercorns, star anise, and bay leaves to create a flavor that's deeper and more interesting than any single spice alone.

A flavor powerhouse. Just a pinch of garam masala can transform curries, marinades, pickles, and stews into dishes bursting with taste. It's used in everything from soups to rice dishes.