Emulsifier Free Garam Masala
Warm, aromatic, and deeply complex, this homemade spice blend is the kind of thing that transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into something that smells like it took all day. Every ingredient here is a whole spice or seed — nothing processed, nothing with hidden additives — which makes it a genuinely clean option for anyone avoiding emulsifiers and stabilizers that sneak into pre-mixed blends at the grocery store. Toasting the coriander, cumin, peppercorns, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaves in a dry skillet coaxes out layers of flavor you simply cannot get from a jar off the shelf. The freshly grated nutmeg added at the grinding stage brings a subtle warmth that rounds out the whole blend beautifully. Passing the finished powder through a fine-mesh strainer gives you a silky, uniform texture that disperses evenly into curries, braises, and roasted vegetables. Store it in an airtight jar and it holds its potency for up to three months — though once you start cooking with it, 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!