This really blew my mind. I don’t know why I haven’t tried to make my own before. We used to buy garam masala from the supermarket, the smell and taste is unbelievable. I didn’t realise what it is supposed to smell like until now as the one we were buying had a very light smell and taste. This one packs a punch and smells so fresh and fragrant. I like adding it to salads, chilli and potatoes in lots of different ways.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp coriander seeds
• 1 tbsp cumin seeds
• 2 tsp black peppercorn
• cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp cardamom seeds (seeds from about 20 pods)
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1/2 tsp whole cloves
• 4 dried bay leaves

Directions

1. Toast the whole spices in a small pan until they are aromatic and have turned a shade or two darker. Don’t be tempted to skip this stage, as it really enhances the flavours.
2. Tip everything into a spice grinder including the Bay leaves and grind to a fine powder (or use a pestle and mortar).
3. Store in a sealed jar for up to six months.