I'm the base spice to so many Indian dishes.

Garam masala: This is a traditional north Indian spice mix. The exact spices used vary from one region to another, but like this mix they typically include cardamom, coriander, cumin, black pepper, and cinnamon. Garam masala is great for meat and poultry dishes, especially those cooked in tomato or onion gravy.

It also makes a good flavouring for spiced bean or lentil soups. Unlike other spice mixtures, garam masala is often sprinkled over a finished dish to enhance the flavours and adding a gentle aroma of roasted spices just before serving.