Topic: garam masala probs

[dazalonso]

trying to make gm mix from scratch i've only got apestle & mortar i can't get cloves & cinammon bark to a powder any tips should i roast my spices first. I know it's easy to buy ground but thought i'd have a crack at making it. Any response would be appreciated cheers.

[Curry King]

Hi,

Yes you will find it easier if you dry fry them first before grinding, making sure not to burn them.

cK

[Mark J]

As CK said definitely easier if you roast first, it makes the spices brittle

[DARTHPHALL]

To add to the answers, if you do end up burning the Spices they will taste bitter & will not be of any use except for Spicing your Bin? ;D.

[dazalonso]

thanks 4 the replies? chaps i will? try this.By the way just attempted a pathia from a recipe posted on here on the 16th (the? guy had a demo? in a resturant).I can't believe how authentic it looks and tastes beginners luck or what.I keep staring at it in wonder i'm scared to eat it in csse i can't reproduce it.

Also in your spice mixes/curry powder what are you using i'm using chilli powder paprika cumin & tumeric is this good or could i improve it.Also can anyone point me to a good korma recipe sorrry 4 the beginner questions but this is a damn freindly & knowledge forum so i'm sure no will mind cheers.

[Curry King]

Hi Daz,

For the best curry powder\spice mix at the moment I would say the common favorite is the Bruce Edwards which is

Coriander - 8 Parts
Turmeric - 7 Parts
Cumin - 5 Parts
Curry Powder - 4 Parts
Paprika - 4 Parts (optional, mainly for colour)

If you havn't done so already its worth checking out the whole Bruce Edwards article thats posted here:

http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=108.0

Also here is part one:

http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=516.0

They are worth printing out and keeping as i've yet to see anything else in print that comes anywhere near as close?

Happy Currying
cK

[Mark J]

Ill add my vote to the Bruce Edwards

Ive just been rereading his articles, the man was well ahead of his time  ;D

[raygraham]

Hi,

I think you would be better investing in an electric coffee grinder instead of your pestle and mortar. They are about ?15 and grind anything to a fine powder. Dry roasting the spices first is a must anyway but I don't think you will get a fine powder from the whole spices such as Cardamom, Cloves, Nutmeg etc.

I find that although home made G. Mas is so much more fragrant than shop bought it can also ruin a dish if you use too much..............err on the side of caution.

East End, Supreme and Natco do a good shop bought alternative.

Regards

Ray