What is Garam Masala?

Garam masala is a popular seasoning used throughout India in everything from meat to vegetable dishes. It's typically made with at least eight spices, with some recipes ranging up to over a dozen. If you're curious about how to use, buy, or make your own garam masala, read below to learn more:

What Spices Are in Garam Masala?

Which exact spices are in garam masala varies by region and even household. Everyone makes it a little differently, meaning if you buy a blend from the grocery store, try garam masala in an Indian restaurant dish, or make your own at home, you're likely to be tasting slightly different spices every time.

The most common spices used in garam masala are cumin, coriander, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, black peppercorns, nutmeg, and mace. Other popular add-ins include bay leaves, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, turmeric, dried red chiles, and more. In Northern India the blend is heavy with black peppercorns, but the further south you go the spicier it gets with the addition of dry red chiles.

Explore some essential North Indian Recipes and South Indian Recipes.

How is Garam Masala Made?

Typically, garam masala is made by toasting whole spices until fragrant, then grinding them into a fine powder. In Southern India the spices are often formed into a paste afterwards by adding in vinegar, coconut milk, or water.

What Does Garam Masala Taste Like?

The word garam means "hot" while masala means "spices." But those words aren't meant to imply that garam masala is always spicy. Instead they refer to the more warming spices common in garam masala blends like cinnamon, nutmeg, and mace. They add subtle sweetness and floral notes, completed with a hint of heat from black peppercorns and/or dry red chiles.

What's the Difference Between Garam Masala and Curry Powder?

While garam masala and curry powder may have a slight overlap in ingredients — both usually include cumin, coriander, and sometimes turmeric — they are distinctly different spice blends. Garam masala is traditionally used throughout India, while curry powder is a British ingredient. In contrast to garam masala's warmth, curry powder tends to be more earthy and often more spicy hot. The two are not interchangeable. For more, check out What Is Curry Powder?

Where to Buy Garam Masla

You can find garam masala at most well-stocked grocery stores in their spice section, but you'd be best getting it at an Indian grocery store, where it's likely to be more fresh. Or better yet, buy the individual components and try your hand at making your own with our Garam Masala Spice Blend recipe.

How Long Does Garam Masala Stay Fresh?

Once made or bought, it's best to store garam masala in an air-tight container away from heat and moisture. Freshly toasted garam masala is best used within a few weeks when the spices are most potent. Though they won't spoil and the blend is safe to use up to six months after being made.

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