Finding garam masala in grocery store can be a bit hard, which is why this article highlights the sections and aisles where it is commonly placed. The article also has a list of some of the most popular stores that usually sell garam masala.
Contents
What is garam masala?
Garam masala is basically a blend of ground spices that is commonly used in Indian cuisines. It is commonly made up of ingredients like cumin, cloves, coriander, cardamom, black pepper, nutmeg and cinnamon. The word “garam” means hot while the word “masala” means spice, so garam masala in English refers to a hot spice. However, garam masala is not specifically a hot spice, it has warm sweet floral notes and a touch of heat which it gets from the black pepper.
Which section or aisle to find garam masala in grocery store
The first place where you can find garam masala in grocery store is at the spice aisle. It will be placed at the spice rack next to other spices, seasonings or herbs.
If you do not find garam masala in the above stated area then the next place where you can find garam masala in grocery store is at the international aisle. Here garam masala will be placed close to other Indian products mainly because garam masala is often used when making Indian dishes.
The last place where you can check for garam masala in grocery store is at the bulk section. Here you might be lucky enough to find garam masala being sold in bulk.
What grocery stores sell garam masala
Amazon– this is one of the best places to find garam masala mainly because they usually have a variety of brands to choose from. Shopping on Amazon also offers you convenience since you can buy everything online from the comfort of your house.
Walmart– you can find garam masala at Walmart and they usually have a variety of brands to choose from. Some of the brands which you will find include Morton and Basset, McCormick and Badia. You can also make use of the Walmart’s store locater to find out if they have any other new brands and to see if these ones are still available in stock.
Kroger– garam masala can be found at Kroger and they usually have a variety of brands to choose from.
Target– they usually have garam masala at the spice aisle and some of brands that they usually have include Swad and Simply balanced.
Whole foods market– you can find garam masala at Whole foods, they usually keep it at 2 places which are the spice aisle and at the bulk section.
Indian markets– there is a high probability that you will find garam masala at an Indian market mainly because this spice is commonly used in Indian cuisines.
Safeway– at Safeway you can find a variety of garam masala brands at the spice section. Some of the brands you will come across include Spicely, McCormick and Simply organic.
Publix– if there is a Publix store in your area then you can buy garam masala there. They usually have a variety of brands to choose from at the spice aisle.
Local health food store– there is a chance that your local health food store might have garam masala so you can always buy from there.
Wegmans– you can find garam masala at the spice aisle they usually have it in stock.
Albertsons– garam masala can be found at Albertsons and if you are searching for a specific brand then simply check product availability on their website.
H-E-B– they usually have garam masala in store so you can always buy from there.
Vons– at Vons you can find garam masala they usually have it in stock.
How to use garam masala
Use garam masala when making soup
Garam masala can be used as a seasoning when making soups. It will add a touch of heat as well as a sweet aroma to the soup. Garam masala was designed in such a way that it is a fragrant spice so it can easily elevate the smell of your dish.
Use garam masala when making chicken
Garam masala can be used as a spice run when making chicken. It will add nice warm, sweet floral notes and a little bit of heat to the chicken. You can use garam masala on its own or you can mix it up with other herbs and spices when making the chicken rub.
Use garam masala when making a stir fry
When making a stir fry at home you can simply use garam masala as a seasoning. The garam masala will add lots of flavour and aroma to the dish. Use garam masala when making a vegetable stir fry or even one that contains meat in it.
How to store garam masala
Garam masala should be stored in an air tight container away from direct sunlight or moisture. This is because garam masala tends to lose its potency very quickly once it has been opened. Garam masala does not spoil however, it is advisable to use it within a few weeks after opening because it tends to lose its flavour and aroma with time. This basically means that, the older the garam masala, the more of it you will use in your recipe since it would have lost its potency.
Health benefits of garam masala
Helps with digestion
The first health benefit of eating garam masala is that it helps with digestion since it promotes the release of gastric juices in the stomach. Garam masala contains cumin and garlic cloves which are known to be beneficial for the digestive system, garlic actually helps to reduce acidity in the stomach. Therefore, if you have digestion problems try including garam masala in your diet.
Helps to boost metabolism
Garam masala contains ingredients that are rich in phytonutrients which are beneficial in boosting metabolism. It also contains minerals that help to improve the functioning of various body organs.
Conclusion
Garam masala is very easy to find when you use the store guide above. It is worth highlighting that some of the stores in the article offer delivery services so you can try to use that service.