Heat the oil in a saute pan over medium-high heat.
When the oil is hot, add your spice mixture - except the paprika and salt - to the pan and cook until the garlic (and any other fresh ingedients) are on the verge of browning, about 2-3 minutes, and then reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking until everything is fragrant, about 5 minutes. Before removing the pan from the heat, add the paprika and stir.
Off the heat, add your salt and sweetener, if you're using one, and stir to combine thoroughly. Store in a jar and keep it in the fridge for up to one month.
*Optional additions: cumin seeds, black or yellow mustard seeds, ginger, citrus, fish sauce or soy sauce.