How to use garam masala in your cooking
What's the story
Garam masala is a quintessential spice blend that adds warmth and depth to vegetarian dishes. This aromatic mix, which usually consists of cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, and coriander, can make a simple vegetable dish into a flavorful feast. Here are some practical tips on how to use garam masala to enhance vegetarian recipes.
Tip 1
Choosing the right ingredients
Selecting fresh spices is important when making garam masala at home. Freshly ground spices have a stronger flavor than pre-ground ones. For a balanced blend, use equal parts of cumin and coriander seeds, with smaller amounts of cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon sticks. Toasting these spices lightly before grinding them releases their essential oils and enhances their taste.
Tip 2
Timing your spice addition
The timing of adding garam masala to your dish can make a huge difference in flavor. If you add it too early while cooking, the spices may lose their potency. Ideally, add garam masala towards the end of cooking or just before serving. This way, the aroma stays intact, and the dish remains fragrant.
Tip 3
Balancing flavors with vegetables
Different vegetables absorb spices differently; hence, it's important to balance flavors accordingly. Root vegetables like potatoes or carrots go well with robust flavors of garam masala due to their natural sweetness. Leafy greens like spinach or kale require a lighter hand with spices as they have delicate flavors that can be overpowered easily.
Tip 4
Experimenting with quantities
Experimenting with quantities of garam masala lets you customize dishes according to your taste preferences. Start off by adding a small amount—about half a teaspoon per serving—and adjust as needed based on how strong you want the spice flavor to be in your dish. Remember that less is more when it comes to powerful blends like garam masala.