garam masala
Also known as: warm spice blend, Indian spice blend, garam masala mix
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Also known as: warm spice blend, Indian spice blend, garam masala mix
Per 100g
Nutrition data source: USDA FoodData Central
Common measurement equivalents in grams
A classic Bengali delicacy featuring succulent prawns simmered in a luscious, creamy coconut milk gravy. Delicately spiced with whole garam masalas, this dish is a celebration of subtle flavors and rich texture, perfect for special occasions.
Fragrant Joha rice and tender chicken come together in this simple yet elegant one-pot meal from Assam. Spiced with whole garam masala and a touch of ghee, it's a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
A creamy and fragrant coconut milk stew with soft potatoes, gently spiced with whole garam masalas. This classic Kerala 'Ishtu' is a comforting dish, perfect with appams or idiyappams for a wholesome breakfast or light dinner.
Yes, garam masala offers several health benefits. It's rich in antioxidants, aids digestion, and possesses anti-inflammatory properties due to its blend of spices like cloves, cinnamon, and cumin. While nutritious, it's used in small quantities, so its direct impact on overall health is modest but beneficial.
Garam masala is known to aid digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes, thanks to spices like cumin and coriander. It's also rich in antioxidants from ingredients like cloves and cardamom, which help protect cells. Additionally, spices like cinnamon and black pepper may contribute to anti-inflammatory effects and a slight boost in metabolism.
Per 100g, garam masala contains approximately 375 calories and 55g of carbohydrates. However, it's typically used in very small amounts (e.g., a teaspoon), so the caloric and carb contribution to a meal is negligible.
Yes, traditional garam masala is both vegan and gluten-free. It is a blend of ground spices and contains no animal products or gluten-containing grains. Always check the ingredient list on commercial blends to ensure no unexpected additives.
In the small quantities typically used for flavoring, garam masala can be considered keto-friendly. While it contains 55g of carbs per 100g, a typical serving (1 teaspoon, about 2-3g) would only contribute around 1-2g of carbs, which fits within most keto dietary limits.
Garam masala has a warm, complex, and aromatic flavor profile, often described as slightly sweet, earthy, and pungent, with notes of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. It's a staple in Indian cuisine, used to flavor curries, stews, lentil dishes, and even marinades for meats and vegetables.
garam masala is a versatile ingredient found in cuisines around the world. With 375 calories per 100g and 12.5 grams of protein, it's a nutritious addition to many dishes.
Explore more ingredients in the spice category with complete nutrition information.
View all spice →Discover 10 recipes featuring garam masala with step-by-step instructions.
Browse recipes →Garam masala is typically added towards the end of the cooking process, or as a finishing spice, to preserve its delicate aromas and and flavors. Adding it too early can cause its volatile oils to dissipate, diminishing its impact. It can also be used as a dry rub or sprinkled over dishes before serving.
To keep garam masala fresh, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. This prevents the loss of its aromatic compounds and extends its shelf life.
Whole spices used to make garam masala can last for several years, but once ground, its potency diminishes faster. Ground garam masala typically retains its peak flavor and aroma for about 6 months to 1 year. While still safe to consume after this, its flavor will be less vibrant.
Garam masala is a blend of several common spices, though the exact composition varies by region and household. Common ingredients include black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander, cardamom, nutmeg, and bay leaves. Some blends may also include mace or star anise.
