Garam Masala (simple)

• 2 tbsp cumin, ground
• 1 tbsp coriander, ground
• 1 tbsp cardamom, ground
• 1 tbsp black pepper, ground
• 2 tsp cinnamon, ground
• 1 tsp clove, ground

Options:

• 1 tsp nutmeg, ground
• 1 tsp fennel, ground
• 1 star anise, ground
• 2 black cardamom pods, ground
• 1 bay leaf, ground
• 1 mace “flower”

1. Heat a pan and add: cardamoms, bay leaf, star anise, nutmeg, mace, cinnamon, cloves and pepper.
2. Roast until aromatic, being careful not to burn any spices. Transfer to a plate.
3. Add coriander seed, roast until aromatic, transfer to a plate.
4. Add fennel seed, roast until aromatic, transfer to a plate.
5. Grind to a fine powder, sieve out any of the remaining coarse bits.
6. Store in an air-tight container.