Garam Masala

Garam Masala

Garam masala is a warm, aromatic blend of ground spices used across many Indian dishes. It typically contains black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and cumin. The name means “hot spice blend” in Hindi—not for its heat, but for its warming qualities. It’s usually added toward the end of cooking to preserve its fragrance.

This versatile spice is found in everything from meat curries to lentils to rice dishes. It's great in marinades, as a finishing spice, or even sprinkled over roasted vegetables.

Works Well With

  • Proteins: Chicken, lamb, lentils, eggs, chickpeas
  • Vegetables: Spinach, potatoes, cauliflower, mushrooms
  • Starches & Grains: Basmati rice, quinoa, flatbreads
  • Dairy: Cream, ghee, yogurt

Great Flavor Pairings

  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Tomatoes
  • Cilantro
  • Yogurt
  • Butter or ghee
  • Cumin
  • Chili powder
  • Cinnamon

Quick & Easy Ideas

  • Masala Avocado Toast – Sprinkle garam masala on avocado toast with salt and chili flakes.
  • Garam Masala Popcorn – Toss popcorn with melted ghee, salt, and garam masala.
  • Garam Masala Scrambled Eggs – Add garam masala to beaten eggs before scrambling.
  • Spiced Chickpea Snack – Pan-fry canned chickpeas with garam masala and a dash of salt.

Recipes

Garam Masala Chicken Curry

A fragrant, cozy curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken thighs or breast, cubed
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Cilantro for garnish

Directions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onion until golden.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Stir in tomatoes and turmeric; cook until tomatoes break down.
  4. Add chicken and salt. Cover and simmer until chicken is cooked (15–20 min).
  5. Stir in garam masala and cook for 5 more minutes.
  6. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Masoor Dal (Lentils)

A simple and comforting dal with a warming spice finish.

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • ½ tsp cumin seeds
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil

Directions:

  1. Rinse lentils and cook in 3 cups water until soft.
  2. In another pan, heat oil and sauté onion and garlic.
  3. Add cumin seeds; cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in garam masala.
  5. Combine with lentils, simmer for 5 minutes, and adjust seasoning.

Spiced Chickpea Wraps

Easy, flavorful, and great for lunch.

Serves: 2

Ingredients:

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • ½ onion, chopped
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tortillas or flatbreads

Directions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan; sauté onion until soft.
  2. Add chickpeas, garam masala, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook until chickpeas are slightly crisp and fragrant.
  4. Serve in wraps with yogurt, lettuce, or chutney.

Creamy Masala Eggs

Soft scrambled eggs with a touch of spice.

Serves: 2

Ingredients:

  • 4 eggs
  • 2 tbsp milk or cream
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • Salt and pepper
  • Butter for cooking

Directions:

  1. Whisk eggs with milk, garam masala, salt, and pepper.
  2. Melt butter in a skillet over low heat.
  3. Cook eggs slowly, stirring gently until soft curds form.
  4. Serve with toast or flatbread.