1 tbsp. cardamom seeds
2 inch stick of cinnamon
1 tsp. black cumin seeds
1 tsp. whole cloves
1 tsp. black peppercorns
1/4 of an average sized nutmeg

Place all the ingredients in a clean, electric coffee-grinder. Turn the machine on for 30-40 seconds or until the spices are finely ground. Store in a small jar with a tight-fitting lid. Keep away from heat and sunlight.

Some Supermarkets do sell a ready-made GARAM MASALA which you may certainly resort to in emergencies. However, you will find it quite pallid, as cheaper spices, such as cumin and coriander are often substituted for the more expensive cardamom and cloves.

It is best to grind ingredients in small quantities so that it stays fresh. This recipes makes about 3 tablespoons.