Garam Masala

Pakistani cuisine is rich in spices and flavours and there are not many Pakistani dishes that are not served with a sprinkle of garam masala powder or don't use it in the cooking process. Garam masala powder or the hot spice mix is a blend of aromatic spices that is either grounded to fine powder or used as whole to give aroma and flavour to Pakistani dishes. 

Garam Masala Recipe

The basic recipe of a garam masala is pretty easy and quick if you have all the ingredients lying around in the pantry. All you need is a number of whole peppercorns, cinnamon, cumin seeds, mace, coriander seeds, and cardamom pod. Toast them in an open pan till their aromatic flavours are released and then grind them to a fine or coarse powder, depending on your preference. 

Leading Brands

These days ready-made spice powders are available by different brands like National Masala and Shan Masala. They are a quick and easy alternative to homemade time taking grounded spice mix and can come in handy every time you quickly need a spice mix ready for cooking. Their prices vary depending on the size and quantity of the product but they are an affordable way to add zest to your food. 

1. Shan Foods (Pvt) Limited

Shan Foods is one of the largest Pakistani packed food producers operating in Pakistan since 1981. Their ready-made masalas are known in multiple parts of the world; exporting their goods to over 60 countries. The convenience of a premade spice mix for different dishes has helped many people save time over the years. Their collection covers nearly all the various Pakistani food options. A lot of households use Shan masalas, but some prefer more organic home prepped masala mixes. Another reason why Shan masala mixes have done well is due to the fact they are very nominally priced.

2. National Foods

Owned by National Foods, National recipe masalas come in large-sized jars and the basic masalas are packed in small boxes (cartons) or pouches. Basic masalas include spice powders for everyday cooking like garam masala, dhania powder, adrak powder, kali mirch, laal mirch, haldi powder in 50g or 100g box, 200g pouch or 25g and 35g shakers.

Comments

While garam masala adds flavour and aroma to your food, it is also full of antioxidants and boosts digestion. The spice blend can help fight inflammation in the body and prevent skin related problems. It also contains carminative properties and is great for fighting flatulence, nausea, bloating and indigestion.