Garam Masala vs. Madras Curry Powder

Garam masala with Madras curry powder Spice mixes are used to add color and taste to dishes. What is the difference between madras curry powder and garam masala?

Madras curry powder is just curry powder with more heat, but garam masala is real and commonly used throughout the subcontinent; the particular combination of spices used differs from area to region.

What else distinguishes these two famous Indian seasonings? Let’s take a closer look at these spices.

Madras Curry Powder Vs Garam Masala

Madras curry powder and garam masala are spice blends that may be used to give foods a spicy and fragrant boost.

The distinction between these two seasonings comes down to the varied spice mixes they include; masala is a warming aromatic blend, whilst madras curry powder is an earthy mixture with higher heat.

Difference Between Garam Masala And Madras Curry Powder

The primary distinction between garam masala and madras curry powder is that curry powder is savorier and has a characteristic golden, yellowish hue owing to the usage of turmeric.

Garam masala contains cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, cloves, and dried chilies, which give it a darker color, sweeter flavor, and more heat than regular yellow curry powder.

Another distinction between garam masala and curry powder is their availability. Although curry powder is commonly found in most grocery shops, garam masala is a specialist item.

If you’re lucky, you’ll find it in your grocery store’s British food department or at a local Asian or Indian grocery store. You may also prepare your own garam masala since the majority of the individual spices are more readily available.

Also see: Top Korma Curry Paste Substitutes

Can I Use Garam Masala Instead Of Curry Powder?

Absolutely, you may use garam masala for curry powder, but bear in mind that your dish may not taste the same.

Curry powder has a moderate flavor due to the addition of fenugreek, cumin, and other spices to the combination.

Garam masala, on the other hand, is completely composed of spicy spices and hence has a stronger flavor. If you use garam masala instead of curry powder, the flavor of your food will be different.

If you have more culinary expertise, you should absolutely attempt producing your own curry powder rather of purchasing garam masala, which might change the flavor of the meal.

Is Garam Masala The Same As Curry Powder?

No, garam masala is not synonymous with curry powder. These are two distinct spice combinations.

Can You Use Garam Masala And Curry Powder Together?

Absolutely, garam masala may be used with madras curry powder. It may taste different from curry powder, but it adds a great flavor to your cuisine.

Nevertheless, bear in mind that you will not get the same taste or color if you simply use one of the spices.

When using both flavors, curry powder should be introduced early in the preparation and cooked with the meal.

Garam masala, on the other hand, is a finishing spice mix containing curry powder-like components; it also contains aromatic spices, thus it should be added at the end of cooking to give the meal an aromatic punch.