26. GARAM MASALA

Ingredients

200 grams	cumin seeds
60 grams	coriander seeds
35 grams	black peppercorns	cardamom seeds
20 grams	red chilli powder or whole red chillies	whole cloves
2 inch	cinnamon stick
1 teaspoon	grated nutmeg

Method

Roast all the seeds in the oven or in a fry pan -  medium heat for 10 minutes. Chillies are optional.

Put all ingredients in a grinder (or use a mortar) and grind to a fine powder. Keep in a air-tight container.

Garam Masala can be used at the start of cooking, however, its true taste is at the end of cooking, sprinkling a teaspoon full over the curry after turning off the heat and leaving the food to stand covered for 5 minutes.

Try garam masala sprinkled over the boiled egg halves.