It's an Indian mixed-spice, with coriander seed, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and black pepper - sometimes nutmeg. Some cooks vary their blends depending on the type of food, eg, a vegetable dish vs. lamb. Unlike curry powder, it doesn't have the strong yellow colour (turmeric) and it's not hot.

You can buy prepared garam masala wherever Indian curries and spices are sold. I love East Indian and Middle Eastern food, so I buy the whole seeds and mix my own masalas.

Doreen