Flavors of India

Chef's Note
In northern India where winters are bitterly cold, a blend of spices called garam masala is preferred to chillies which cool body by promoting perspiration. Some of the most expensive spices go into its making. Every household in India has its own recipe for garam massala. Depending on individual taste, the proportion of the various ingredients can be adjusted. 

Preparation time: A few minutes
Cooking time: None
Cost: Reasonable
Difficulty: Very Easy

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. black peppercorns
• 2 tsp. cumin seed
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp. cloves
• 3/4 cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp. cardamom

Optional

• 1 cinnamon leaf
• 1 tsp. ground fennel
• cuminc
• coriander
• mace

Method

1. Grind all the ingredients coarsely.
2. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in a cool place; the mixture will keep well for up to six months.