Garam Masala Recipe

Garam Masala is an aromatic blend of spices used in a lot of Indian and Indian-inspired recipes. You can easily make this seasoning at home with just 7 ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

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Garam Masala is the only spice blend that I’ve had a hard time finding in the grocery stores that I frequent.

I started making my own seasonings, to get them just the way I like, so I’ve now done the same for this blend. I always have the ingredients needed on hand making it easy to make this spice anytime I need.

You can use this homemade Garam Masala the same way you would any store-bought variation. My personal favorite recipe to use it in is Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) or Butter Paneer (Paneer Makhani).

Why This Recipe Works

This is a very easy spice mixture to make. All you need to do is measure out the spices you need and mix them together.

This is an extremely flavorful blend of spices. It’s made with aromatic spices with strong flavors such as cumin, cinnamon and cardamom.

As with all homemade spice mixtures, you have full control over how it tastes. Adjust the amount of individual spices, add other types that aren’t in it that you prefer, or omit a spice you may not care for.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Ingredients

Ingredients needed to make garam masala on a small plate on a marble background with text overlay.

2 tablespoon ground cumin
4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3 teaspoons black pepper
3 teaspoons ground coriander
2 teaspoons ground cardamom
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

The entire recipe and instructions can also be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. You can also print the recipe from the card, if needed.

Chef’s Note: cloves and nutmeg are more for aroma and can be omitted if you don’t have them on hand or don’t care for them.

Prep!

There is no significant prep work for this recipe.

Create!

Garam Masala being mixed in a small white bowl with a spoon in it.

Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and mix until well combined.

Present!

Store in a jar with a lid away from direct sunlight.

Use by the earliest expiration date on the individual jars of herbs and spices used.

Tips and Techniques

Use fresh, dried herbs and spices for the best results.
If you don’t have or don’t like an ingredient, you can easily adjust this recipe to suite your own tastes.
Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Use by the earliest expiration date on the individual jars of herbs and spices used.

FAQ’s

What Is In Garam Masala?

Garam masala is a spice blend that can vary greatly. Most store-bought blends contain cumin, cinnamon, black pepper, coriander, cardamom and cloves. Some other ingredients that may be included are nutmeg, star anise, mace, turmeric and bay leaves.

What Can Be Used As A Substitute For Garam Masala?

If you don’t have garam masala on hand, or the ingredients needed to make your own, Curry Powder is the best substitute.

More Homemade Spice Mixtures

Homemade Curry Powder

Homemade Curry Powder is a super flavorful spice blend that can be used in all of your favorite curry recipes. It’s quick and easy to make and can be stored in your pantry to be used, as needed.

Get The Recipe

Homemade Adobo Seasoning

Adobo Seasoning is made from a simple combination of herbs and spices you probably already have in your pantry. There is no need to buy premade spice blends when you can easily make your own in just minutes.

Get The Recipe

Chai Spice Mix

Homemade Chai Spice Mix is an easy-to-make spice blend that can be used in a variety of ways. Add it to your tea or coffee, stir it into your morning oatmeal, or bake it in all kinds of delicious culinary creations, from breakfast to desserts.

Get The Recipe

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Garam Masala on a spoon being held up over a small white bowl of more spice.