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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of garam masala?

DIY blend, Curry powder + cinnamon and Allspice + cumin are the easiest swaps. Below: 3 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

DIY blend. Use the same amount. 1 tsp = 1/2 tsp cumin + 1/4 tsp coriander + 1/4 tsp cardamom + pinch cinnamon + pinch clove + pinch black pepper.

Adjust: Toast the mix 30 seconds in the pan.

  1. DIY blend

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    1 tsp = 1/2 tsp cumin + 1/4 tsp coriander + 1/4 tsp cardamom + pinch cinnamon + pinch clove + pinch black pepper.

    Flavor
    Closest match; warm and aromatic.
    Texture
    Same ground spice.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Toast the mix 30 seconds in the pan.
    Best for
    Any recipe

    vegan · gluten free

  2. Curry powder + cinnamon

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Curry powder is turmeric-forward and milder; add 1/4 tsp cinnamon per tbsp for warmth.

    Flavor
    Different profile — more earthy, less sweet-spiced.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Curry powder changes color (yellow).
    Best for
    Curries, Soups, Roasted vegetables

    vegan

  3. Allspice + cumin

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    2 parts allspice to 1 part cumin approximates the warm-spice character.

    Flavor
    Sweeter, single-note warmth.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Use half the amount first, then build.
    Best for
    Braised dishes, Lentil dishes

    vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for garam masala?

DIY blend is the closest swap. Use the same amount. 1 tsp = 1/2 tsp cumin + 1/4 tsp coriander + 1/4 tsp cardamom + pinch cinnamon + pinch clove + pinch black pepper.

What is a vegan substitute for garam masala?

Good vegan options are DIY blend, Curry powder + cinnamon and Allspice + cumin.

What is a gluten-free substitute for garam masala?

Good gluten-free options are DIY blend.

How much should I use instead of garam masala?

It depends on the swap. DIY blend: Use the same amount. Curry powder + cinnamon: Use the same amount. Allspice + cumin: Use the same amount.

Recipes that use garam masala

Scale it to your recipe

Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.

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