Nut Masala

Ingredients

2 tb vegetable oil
1 ts cumin seeds
1 cardamon seeds
1 tb poppy seeds
1 ts black peppercorns
2 garlic
1 gingerroot
2 oz blanched almonds
1/4 c boiling water

Instructions

Heat oil in a heavy skillet, add spices and cook over medium heat 5 to 10 minutes, until golden brown, stirring constantly. Add garlic and gingerroot and cook 2 minutes more, then cool. Put spice mixture in a blender or food processor fitted with the metal blade. Add almonds or cashew nuts and water; grind to a smooth paste. Cover tightly and keep in a cool place for up to 1 month.