Video:5 Variations for Garam Masala

Transcript:5 Variations for Garam Masala

Hi, I am Anthony for About.com and today I am going to show you 5 variations for garam masala, which is a traditional Indian spice mixture. There are a number of variations and spice combination when making a garam masala. Toady I am going to show you 5 different variations with slight differences.

Ingredients for Base Garam Masala Recipe

You will need the following ingredients:

• 4 tbsp coriander seeds
• 1 tbsp cumin seeds
• 1 tbsp black peppercorns
• 1-1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 4 cardamom pods
• 3/4 tsp cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks

Additions for Each Variation for Garam Masala

• Variation 1: Add 2 bay leaves
• Variation 2: Add 1 tsp fennel seeds, 1 tsp mustard seeds, 1 tsp dried chili flakes, 2 tsp ground turmeric
• Variation 3: Add 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1 piece star anise, 1 bay leaf
• Variation 4: Add 2 tsp cumin seeds, 1/2 tsp saffron powder, 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• Variation 5: Add 2 tbsp poppy seeds, 1/2 tsp fennel seeds, 1 piece star anise, 1 bay leaf, 1 tsp ground nutmeg

Prepare the Variations for Garam Masala

Heat a heavy based pan on medium and gently roast all the ingredients. You should occasional mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon or by shaking the pan.It is important to only roast the spices on medium heat and do not turn up the heat or the spices will burn. Take the spices off the heat once they have turned light brown in color. Allow them to cool for a further 5-10 minutes and take them out of the pan and rest on a plate to stop the roasting process.

Once the spices are cool, remove the cardamom seeds from their skins and discard. Add the seeds back to the spice mixture. Now grind all the spices together in a food processer and store in an airtight container in a cool place.

Make a Paste With Variations for Garam Masala

To make into a paste, simply add a little oil or yoghurt and then rub your meat with the spice mixture. Leave overnight to for the spices to permeate into the meat. Whenever you are looking for a spicy kick to your dish, a pinch of garam masala will uplift your next Indian meal. Thank you for watching and for more information about the 5 variations for garam masala, visit About.com.