Garam Masala

 This spice blend is crucial in much of north Indian cooking. "Garam" means "hot," and "masala" means mixture. Rather than being spicy, the name refers to the warming flavors of its ingredients. Traditional Ayurvedic teaching considers these spices to be warming to the body. 

Garam masala is traditionally made with whole roasted and ground spices, but I stopped doing it that way long ago because this substitute is quicker, much easier, and honestly pretty decent. It makes everything flavorful, aromatic and wonderful. (I still grate my own nutmeg, but the rest is just freshly purchased pre-ground spice.)

1 Tbsp ground cumin
1 1/2 tsp ground coriander
1 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
1 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Mix all ingredients together. Store in an airtight container, such as a spice jar or 4-ounce Mason jar.