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Spices

Homemade Garam Masala

Toast and grind your own garam masala for a fragrant blend that transforms curries, soups and roasted vegetables.

Karen Browne · 22 May 2026
Homemade Garam Masala

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp cumin seeds
  • 2 tbsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tbsp black peppercorns
  • 1 tsp cardamom seeds (from green pods)
  • 1 tsp cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick, broken
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg

Method

  1. Toast cumin, coriander, peppercorns, cardamom, cloves and cinnamon in a dry frying pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until fragrant.
  2. Remove from heat and cool completely.
  3. Transfer to a spice grinder or pestle and mortar. Grind to a fine powder.
  4. Stir in ground nutmeg.
  5. Store in a sealed jar away from direct light. Use within 3 months for best flavour.

Tips

Fresh garam masala is far more aromatic than pre-ground. Use 1–2 tsp to finish curries, stir into yogurt marinades or sprinkle over roasted cauliflower.