The first thing you notice about the masala is the aroma. It has a sort of hot pungent heady aroma which lingers in the air long after you have closed the container of the masala powder.
Garam masala is a blend of spices usually used in Indian cooking not only for flavour but for the aroma it lends to the dish as well. A simple biryani or pulao with whole garam masala added for its unique aroma is something to be experienced as it cannot be described. "Heavenly" comes close.
Here is a blend that can be used for everyday use. There are other, more aromatic blends, but those will be posted later.
Ingredients : -
Coriander seeds - 8 tablespoons
Cumin seeds - 4 tablespoons
cloves - 10
black peppercorns - 3 tablespoons
cinnamon - 3-4 inches
black cardamom - 3-4
turmeric powder - 1 teaspoon
green cardamom - 4
dried red chillies - 6-8
bay leaves - 2-3
Method : -
Roast the ingredients separately on a griddle til they release their unique aroma. Then powder them together.
