Why Garam Masala Powder is a Must-Have for Every Kitchen

    Such is the fan-following of Garam Masala that they made an entire Bollywood movie on it with its own title track. But seriously, garam masala is a staple of every Indian kitchen with a ton of health benefits solidifying its position as such. The following article will give you a low-down on why this masala must be included in every meal in every kitchen India and the world. 

What Exactly is Garam Masala? 

 

• So, you know haldi powder is made from turmeric, lal mirch powder is made from red chillies, coriander powder is made from coriander and so on. But is there really a vegetable or a spice named garam?  

 

• This masala is basically prepared with a mixture of other spices like dried red chilli, bay leaf, cinnamon, cardamom, clove, cumin, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, black pepper, etc. 

• These ingredients are first roasted lightly then ground together to form a powder. Your garam masala is now ready!  

 

Garam Masala in Ayurveda 

 

According to our ancestors who wrote the book on Ayurveda, garam masala is warm in nature, hence the name. For a good and healthy metabolism, foods that are considered warm are highly recommended.

A healthy metabolism is imperative to feeling active and energetic all day long. Signs of a good metabolism also point towards quicker fat burning and weight loss. For anyone who is watching their weight, buying garam masala is highly recommended for their gravies.  

 

Garam Masala for the Stomach 

 

Facing digestive issues? Garam masala is your saviour. This wonder spice helps in stimulating the digestive system to produce digestive enzymes that promote the breakdown of fats, protein, carbs, and fibre. A lack of sufficient digestive enzymes is likely to give rise to indigestion, bloating, gut issues etc. If red chilli powder upsets your stomach, garam masala powder will make it go away. 

 

Garam Masala for Common Cold 

 

There are over a thousand cures for the common cold with all of them not being very different from one another. Add garam masala to the list as well as a little bit of the spice mixed with warm water for instant relief. 

 

 

Secret to an Effective Garam Masala 

 

Many health experts have suggested adding to buy black pepper powder while making garam masala as the peperone found in them increases absorption of most foods that we eat. 

Haldi powder masala is another spice highly recommended to be added in the preparation of garam masala as the curcumin in them with the help of peperone from black pepper, makes absorption of food easier. 

 

Other Power Ingredients of Garam Masala 

 

Cinnamon in the masala is a great anti-microbial and has anti-inflammatory properties too. Being high in calcium and fibre, the cinnamon in garam masala helps in controlling blood sugar by increasing insulin production and lowering blood sugar levels.  

 

The Bay leaves, another important ingredient for garam masala, is a powerful anti-oxidant that helps prevent cancer, arthritis, and ulcers. 

 

Garam masala is a multipurpose spice that truly helps promote health in almost all aspects of our body. So, the next time you cook, add some extra kick to your recipes with this health promoting Indian spice.