GARAM MASALA POWDER
The composition of garam masala differs regionally, with many recipes across India according to regional and personal taste, [1] and none is considered more authentic than others. The components of the mix are toasted, then ground together.
A typical Indian version of garam masala contains nothing but :
- Black and white peppercorns
- Cloves
- Cinnamon or cassia bark
- Nutmeg
- Mace
- Black and green cardamom pods
- Bay leaf
- Cumin
Some recipes call for the spices to be blended with herbs, while others call for the spices to be ground with water, vinegar, coconut milk, or other liquids, to make a paste. In some recipes, ingredients including nuts, onions, or garlic may be added. Some recipes also call for small quantities of star anise, asafoetida, chili, stone flower (known as dagadphool), and kababchini (cubeb). The flavours may be carefully blended to achieve a balanced effect, or a single flavour may be emphasized.