Recipe of the Week- Indian Spices

If you want to start cooking Indian food, there is one key ingredient, spices.  Historically, India has been known for spices.  We personally bring spice packets from India.  However, we know that many of you do not have that luxury, and if you happen to find an Indian grocery store, these packets are expensive.

The first step it to purchase the necessary spices:
Anise- whole and/or ground
Cardamon- This is  used in both spicy and sweet dishes
Chili Powder
Cinnamon-  Ground and whole
Cloves
Coriander
Cumin- both ground and seeds
Fennel Seeds
Fenugreek Seeds
Mustard Seed- the black seeds
Nutmeg
Pepper-  Whole and ground
Turmeric- very commonly used in many of the dishes

Also fresh ginger, garlic, and cilantro are needed for most recipes.

For many of the spice recipes, it is good to use the whole spice instead of the ground.  That way you can lightly fry the spices in order to bring out the good flavor.  If you are in a pinch, the ground will do.

Here is a simple recipe for Garam Masala that can be made easily

Garam Masala

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cardamom
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Mix all ingredients and store in a cool dry place

If you want more authentic flavor,  try this recipe

Garam Masala

• 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon cardamom seeds
• 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon fennel seed
• 1 teaspoon mustard seed
• 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
• 2 dried red chile peppers, seeds discarded
• 2 tablespoons ground turmeric

Directions

1. Combine the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, cardamom seeds, peppercorns, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, cloves, and red chile peppers in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Toast until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Grind the toasted spices in a clean coffee grinder or spice mill to a fine powder. Spoon in the turmeric, and process to combine. Use immediately, or store in a sealed jar for up to 1 month.

I hope this will get you started, so you can start making authentic Indian food at home.