Anti Inflammatory Garam Masala
Making your own spice blend from scratch is one of those kitchen moves that instantly elevates everything it touches. This warming blend draws on whole coriander, cumin, black pepper, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaves — a lineup that reads like a who's who of botanicals celebrated for their natural anti-inflammatory compounds. Toasting the whole spices in a dry skillet before grinding is the key step here: it wakes up the essential oils and coaxes out a depth of flavor that no pre-ground jar from the store can match. The addition of freshly grated nutmeg stirred in just before grinding adds a subtle warmth that rounds out the sharper edges of the cloves and pepper. Passing the finished powder through a fine-mesh strainer removes any tough cardamom husks, so you're left with a silky, uniform blend that dissolves beautifully into sauces, soups, and roasted vegetables. Stored in an airtight jar away from heat and light, it holds its potency for up to three months — though once you smell it fresh, it probably won't last that long.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
16 servings
- 3 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp black peppercorns
- 1 tsp green cardamom pods
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick (about 3 inches)
- 2 dried bay leaves
- ½ tsp fennel seeds (optional)
- ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
Instructions
- 1
Combine the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, and fennel seeds (if using) in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat. Toast, stirring frequently, until the spices are fragrant and the coriander seeds turn a shade darker, about 3–4 minutes. Watch closely — the cloves and cardamom can scorch quickly.
- 2
Transfer the toasted spices to a plate and let them cool completely, about 5 minutes, so residual heat does not create steam in the grinder.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!