Garam Masala, Ground, 50g

Garam Masala, Ground, 50g

Garam masala is a warm, aromatic spice blend commonly used in Indian, Pakistani, and South Asian cooking. The term "garam masala" translates to "hot spice mix" in Hindi, referring to its warming effect on the body rather than spiciness. The blend varies from region to region and family to family, but it generally includes a combination of ground spices that create a rich, fragrant seasoning.

Flavour Profile:

• Taste: Warm, earthy, slightly sweet, with hints of spice, sweetness, and mild heat.
• Aroma: Fragrant, rich, and aromatic with a balance of sweet, savoury, and spicy notes.
• Heat: Mild to moderate, depending on the spices used (it’s not a hot blend, but rather one that warms the body).

What Is Garam Masala Used For?

1. Indian and South Asian Dishes:

• Curries & Gravies: Adds depth and warmth to vegetable curries, chicken curries, and lamb dishes.
• Rice Dishes: Used in biryani or pilafs to enhance the flavour of the rice.
• Stews & Soups: Often added to lentil soups (dal) or chickpea curries to create complexity.
• Vegetable Dishes: Adds flavour to aloo (potato) dishes, saag (spinach), and mixed vegetables.

2. Meat & Poultry:

• Marinades: Commonly mixed with yogurt and oil to marinate chicken, beef, or lamb.
• Grilled or Roasted Meats: Sprinkled on meats before roasting or grilling for extra fragrance.
• Kebabs & Skewers: Added to spice blends for meat skewers like seekh kebabs.

3. Vegetarian & Vegan Cooking:

• Tofu & Tempeh: Adds a warming flavour to plant-based proteins.
• Vegetable Dishes: Seasoning for roasted cauliflower, eggplant, or potatoes.
• Stuffed Vegetables: Used in stuffing for pumpkins, squashes, and bell peppers.

4. Breads and Pastries:

• Naan & Paratha: Can be added to dough for a slight warming flavour.
• Savoury Pastries: Sprinkled over samosas or vegetable fritters.

5. Sauces and Dips:

• Yogurt-based Sauces: Mixed into raita or yogurt dips for a burst of flavour.
• Chutneys: Adds warmth to mango or mint chutneys.

Health Benefits of Garam Masala:

1. Boosts Digestion: Ingredients like cumin and coriander support healthy digestion.
2. Anti-inflammatory: Cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves have anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Rich in Antioxidants: Spices like cloves and cardamom are packed with antioxidants.
4. Supports Metabolism: Black pepper helps stimulate digestion and boosts metabolism.
5. Improves Circulation: The warming spices can promote healthy blood circulation.

Ingredients:

Coriander, cinnamon, ginger, cumin, cardamon