I guess I am really lucky living in Dewsbury my local Asian supermarket sells all sorts some of which I haven't a clue what it is
The best spices in my opinion are Rajah brand and you should find them in larger supermarkets East End is another brand but not as good IMHO
the basic masala ( spice mix is what it means it isn't a dish per se) is normally white onion garlic / ginger which can be bought in a paste and keeps in the fridge
Half a dessert spoon of coriander and the same of cumin half teaspoon of chilli powder after that fenugrrek( kasoori methi) turmeric ( haldi) is added dependent upon the recipe etc
pre mixed masalas in Kashmir cooking tends to be Bassar and one or two of the madras types ....I can get them locally if you are a fan drop a pm and happy to post you various masalas
re stanching the van cumin (jeera) fenugreek tend to be main culprits so better cooked outside and tease neighbours
View attachment 70089 made from scratch and really quick to do
Channa
Ps put the Asian names in brackets if you find yourself in a deli somewhere