Quick Garam Masala Recipe
Overview:
This Quick Garam Masala recipe is perfect for those moments when you need to add a burst of authentic Indian flavor to your dishes without spending a lot of time grinding spices. It’s a blend of aromatic spices that can elevate the taste of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes alike. Whether you’re whipping up a curry, seasoning grilled vegetables, or marinating meats, this homemade garam masala will bring warmth and depth to your cooking in just a few minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2/3 cup
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to make Quick Garam Masala:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 1/2 tsp | Ground cardamom |
| 2 1/2 tsp | Ground cinnamon |
| 1/4 tsp | Ground cloves |
| 1/4 tsp | Black pepper |
| 2 tsp | Ground cumin |
| 1 1/2 tsp | Ground coriander |
| 1/2 tsp | Nutmeg |
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the spices listed in the ingredients section.
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Toast the Spices: Place a small dry skillet or frying pan over low heat. Add all the spices: ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, black pepper, ground cumin, ground coriander, and nutmeg.
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Toast Gently: Stir the spices continuously while toasting over low heat. The goal is to release their essential oils and enhance their flavors. Be careful not to burn them, as burnt spices can become bitter.
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Cool and Store: Once the spices are aromatic (you’ll notice a fragrant aroma), remove the skillet from heat and transfer the toasted spices to a clean, dry bowl or plate to cool down quickly. Let them cool completely.
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Storage: Once cooled, transfer the toasted spices to an airtight container. Store the Quick Garam Masala in a cool, dark place. It can stay flavorful for up to 3 months, though it’s best used within the first few weeks for optimal freshness and potency.
Tips for Using Quick Garam Masala:
- Versatile Spice Blend: Use this Quick Garam Masala in various Indian dishes such as curries, stews, soups, and even in marinades for meats and vegetables.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the quantities of spices according to your personal preference. You can increase or decrease the intensity of certain spices based on how you like your garam masala to taste.
- Freshness Matters: For the best flavor, use fresh spices when making this blend. Ground spices lose their potency over time, so ensure your spices are not too old.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 435.6
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 139.3mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 96.9g
- Fiber: 49.1g
- Sugar: 2.4g
- Protein: 12.6g
Serving Suggestions:
- Use Quick Garam Masala to season rice dishes like biryani or pilaf.
- Sprinkle a pinch over roasted vegetables for added warmth and flavor.
- Mix into yogurt for a quick and tasty dip.
- Incorporate into marinades for chicken, fish, or tofu before grilling or baking.
Conclusion:
With this Quick Garam Masala recipe, you can effortlessly enhance the flavors of your favorite Indian-inspired dishes in a matter of minutes. Enjoy the convenience of having a homemade spice blend on hand whenever you need to add a touch of warmth and complexity to your cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal preparations, this recipe ensures you never have to compromise on flavor!
