Samosa Spices

Ok, so I had to know what spices were in the Samosa that we ate at the movies.

Here is what I found from various recipes:
cumin (I guessed that one!)
garlic
ginger
salt
pepper
coriander
tumeric
chile powder
cardamom
chile peppers
garam masala (never heard of this one! keep reading for more info)

Samosas generally were filled with lamb or vegetables cooked with these spices and wrapped in Phyllo dough or a pie crust type dough then deep fried. I did find one particularly interesting recipe that used these spices, cilantro, onion and yogurt to make a creamy filling. I thought that sounded really good!

Garam Masala - is apparently kind of like curry in that it is a mix of spices that are kept on hand and used in many Indian dishes. "This is the most aromatic and fragrant of all Indian spice blends. Used throughout North India in all types of dishes — from appetizers and soups to yogurt salad and main courses — this blend is indispensable to Moghul and North Indian cooking" Here is a "standard" garam masala recipe - mix it up and use it instead of salt to add heat and flavor to savory dishes:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons cumin seeds
2 tablespoons coriander seeds
2 tablespoons cardamom seeds
2 tablespoons black peppercorns
1 (3-inch) stick cinnamon, broken up
1 teaspoon whole cloves
1 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon saffron (optional)



Put the cumin, coriander, cardamom, peppercorns, cinnamon, and cloves in a dry heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Toast the spices, stirring occasionally, until they turn several shades darker and give off a sweet smoky aroma, about 10 minutes. Do not raise the heat to quicken the process, or the spices will brown prematurely, leaving the insides undercooked. Cool completely.

Working in batches if necessary, transfer the mixture to a spice mill or coffee grinder and grind to a powder. Stir in the nutmeg and saffron. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.


I think I may have to whip up a batch and add it to my seasoning arsenal!