Garam masala is the soul of Indian cooking. From curries and dals to vegetables and snacks, this aromatic spice blend enhances flavor, aroma, and warmth in almost every dish. While ready-made garam masala is easily available in the market, homemade garam masala powder has a freshness and depth of flavor that packaged versions simply cannot match.

The good news is that making garam masala at home is simple, economical, and completely customizable to your taste. Here’s an easy and authentic way to prepare homemade garam masala powder using basic kitchen spices.

Why Make Garam Masala at Home?

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  Fresh aroma and stronger flavor

  
  


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  No preservatives or artificial colors

  
  


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  Adjustable spice levels

  
  


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  Better shelf life when stored properly

  
  

Ingredients for Homemade Garam Masala Powder

You will need the following whole spices:

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  4 tablespoons coriander seeds

  
  


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  2 tablespoons cumin seeds

  
  


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  1 tablespoon black peppercorns

  
  


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  8–10 cloves

  
  


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  4–5 green cardamom pods

  
  


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  2 black cardamom pods

  
  


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  2–3 small cinnamon sticks

  
  


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  1 teaspoon fennel seeds

  
  


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  1 bay leaf

  
  


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  ½ teaspoon nutmeg powder (optional)

  
  


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  1–2 mace strands (optional)

  
  

How to Make Garam Masala at Home (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Dry Roast the Spices

Heat a heavy pan on low flame. Add all the whole spices (except nutmeg powder). Dry roast them slowly, stirring continuously, until they release a strong aroma. Be careful not to burn them.

Step 2: Cool Completely

Turn off the heat and allow the roasted spices to cool completely. This step is important to avoid moisture during grinding.

Step 3: Grind into Fine Powder

Transfer the cooled spices to a grinder or spice mill. Add nutmeg powder if using. Grind into a fine, smooth powder.

Step 4: Store Properly

Store the garam masala powder in an airtight container. Keep it away from sunlight and moisture.

Tips for Best Taste

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  Always roast spices on low heat

  
  


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  Do not over-roast, as it can make the masala bitter

  
  


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  Use fresh, good-quality whole spices

  
  


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  Prepare in small batches for maximum freshness

  
  

How to Use Homemade Garam Masala

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  Add at the end of cooking for maximum aroma

  
  


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  Use in curries, gravies, pulao, and biryani

  
  


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  Sprinkle on snacks, chaat, or roasted vegetables

  
  

Final Words

Homemade garam masala powder not only elevates the taste of your food but also brings authenticity and warmth to your cooking. Once you try making it at home, you may never go back to store-bought versions again.

Make a small batch, store it well, and enjoy rich, aromatic Indian flavors every day.