Garam Masala is a warm and aromatic spice blend from India, bringing exotic notes of cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin to classic dishes like curry and dhal.
The name garam means intensity and masala basically means mixture.
What is garam masala mainly used for?
Its use really is as wide as the number of ingredients and it can be used to season the dish at the start, at the end or alongside other spice ingredients in the middle! Of each of these options, the Garam Masala is most often used to add fragrance and flavour at the end of the cooking process.
What is garam masala mainly Made of?
The most common spices are: coriander, cumin, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The proportions used are also at the discretion of the cook.
A basic garam masala combines the following ingredients:
1) Cardamom pods (both green and black)
2) Cinnamon sticks
3) Cloves
4) Cumin seeds
5) Coriander seeds
6) Black peppercorns
7) Bay leaves
8) Nutmeg
Health benefits of Garam Masala.
Beyond its incredible flavour profile, Garam Masala offers numerous health benefits.
Improved Digestion: The spices in garam masala, such as cumin, coriander, and cardamom, aid digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes and reducing bloating and indigestion.
Antioxidant Boost: Garam masala contains potent antioxidants from spices like cinnamon and cloves, helping combat oxidative stress and supporting the body’s natural defence against diseases.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Turmeric, a key ingredient in garam masala, possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and related conditions.
Immune System Support: The blend of spices in garam masala, including black pepper and cloves, may bolster the immune system, providing protection against infections.
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