garam masala

American  

[guhr-uhm muh-sah-luh, guh-rahm] / ˈgʌr əm məˈsɑ lə, gəˈrɑm /

noun

1. an aromatic mixture of ground spices used in Indian cuisine, usually containing black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, nutmeg, and turmeric.

---

garam masala British  

/ ˈɡɑːrəm mɑːˈsɑːlə /

noun

1. an aromatic mixture of spices, extensively used in curries

---

Etymology

Origin of garam masala

First recorded in 1950–55; from Urdu garam masālā, literally, “hot spices”

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

garam masala

For Indian cuisine, consider stocking turmeric, garam masala, mustard seeds, curry leaves and ghee.

From Salon ● Jan. 2, 2025

In 2014, Ipsita Mazumdar, a biochemistry expert, tested popular spice brands in Kolkata which made chilli, cumin, curry powder, and garam masala.

From BBC ● May 14, 2024

Mix the oil, chili-garlic sauce, ketchup, garam masala and 2 teaspoons each salt and pepper.

From Washington Times ● Sep. 15, 2023

And it's got a particular kind of garam masala.

From Salon ● May 13, 2023

Laughing as they chop onions and caramelize them with garam masala and turmeric and ginger and garlic, trying to replicate my nanni’s kheema.

From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed