Our “Mother” Masala Blend - a.k.a. Garam Masala - is a foundational mix of spices (similar to a Mother Sauce) that is used frequently in South Asian cooking. Ayurvedic medicine suggests that if there is insufficient heat in our body it can become sluggish and slow to remove toxins. The word garam means “to heat,” and these warming spices can elevate body temperature and boost metabolism. Masala just means a dry or tempered (in oil) mix of spices and herbs. Similar to a Mexican Molé, every home and professional Asian cook and chef has their own “secret” blend of spices in their Garam Masala. Unlike a Molé, once your spice mix is prepared, it takes just minutes to dry-toast and grind it. Sprinkle it on your recipe, either before the cooking is complete or as a “super aromatic” finishing spice. Our “Mother” Masala is a blend of 12 different spices that combine to create all tastes - sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. Importantly, we leave the spices whole so that this spice mix retains its optimal flavor for a long time. You can toast and grind it in batches for a fresh vibrant flavor that will create a party in your mouth!