Garam masala is a mixture of various spices. It is used in almost every Indian cuisine. Every herb is usually dry roasted to prepare the blended masala to enhance its aroma and flavor. It is available in the ground and whole mixed whole spices. Every Indian dish is incomplete without the masala, so it is the primary ingredient in Indian dishes.
The word “garam” means hot, and “masala” means spices. The masala is available in many forms, so you have to check the label according to your demand, like gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian garam masala.
Basic ingredients
You need to check the ingredients list before buying the masala and see which species are added. Different companies blend different spices to varying ratios, so you need to check it on their label before buying.
Essential ingredients in garam masala are:
- Black pepper
- Nutmeg
- Cinnamon
- Cloves
- Coriander
- Cumin
- Cardamom
These are the primary ingredients. Other spices may also include saffron, turmeric, fennel seeds, ginger, garlic, bay leaves, tamarind, and many more herbs.
What does it taste like?
Garam masala has warmth, sweeter, and a minor touch of heating sensation. The primary intent of masala is to add a specific aroma and flavor to the dish. Masala does not give you hotness in food.
Where to buy garam masala?
You can buy garam masala from the spics section of every supermarket and grocery store. The best source to buy the masala is from Indian stores, where you can also find every individual spice of masala. Or you can buy its raw form to prepare the masala at your home. It will give you the best flavor.
It is available in small to large packings, and you can store it for years in air-tight containers. Every masala making company has a different ratio to prepare the blend to choose according to your likings. Some companies prepare masala with dominant cinnamon flavor so try to select after checking their ingredients.
After trying various blends here, I will suggest some brands that prepare a well-balanced garam masala with the perfect aroma and flavor.
- In Uk, the best brand is WAITROSE. It has the perfect blend of traditional spices like cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper.
- In the US, you can buy from SEASONED PIONEERS and RAW SPICES BAR. The seasoned pioneer has a potent blend of spices with a strong, pungent flavor. In contrast, the raw spice bar has a perfect combination with a balanced taste and aroma.
- If you are looking for any household brand, you can buy from Amazon, where the masala from EAST END is perfect in its traditional taste and flavor. You can buy it from any country.
Garam masala in different languages
It is a specific Indian or Hindi word. Garam masala is the universal name and considered for spices even in the English language.
It does not have any translated words. Individual spices have different names in different countries according to their native languages.