Curry powder has become one of the most popular spice blends in the world. It is so common that nowadays we can easily find it in supermarkets, in different formats and brands. However, we are not always clear if what we buy is really an authentic mixture or simply a combination of flours and colorings.
In this article you will learn how to prepare homemade curry powder, what ingredients you need and some practical tricks that will help you achieve a better result.
What is curry?
Curry is a mixture of spices and herbs inspired by the traditional flavors of Indian cuisine, which is used as a condiment to add color, aroma and flavor to many dishes. Over time, its use has spread to different cuisines around the world, creating their own versions and adapting them to their culture.
If you are interested in going deeper in what is curry and how it has changed over time, you can discover it in our article about its origin.
Ingredients to prepare the mixture
There has never been a single recipe for curry powders, but most mixtures are made with a base of very common spices that you surely have at home: turmeric, cumin, ginger, cinnamon, coriander and pepper.
Below we will tell you the measurements we use to prepare our homemade mix, along with some optional variations depending on what type of preparation you are looking for.
Base ingredients
-
2 tablespoons cumin
-
2 tablespoons coriander seeds
-
1 teaspoon of ginger powder
-
1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
-
½ tablespoon black pepper peppercorns (or powdered)
Note: We recommend using coriander in grains, as dried or fresh leaves completely change the flavor of the mixture.
Optional:
For a deeper, spicier aroma.
-
2 dried bay leaves
-
3 cloves
-
2 star aniseed
You can add all of them or just the ones you have available, depending on the intensity you are looking for.
For a more intense or spicy flavor
-
1 tablespoon of black mustard or white mustard grains
Provides a roasted flavor and a mild spiciness that gives depth to the mixture.
-
1 tablespoon of cayenne powder
If you enjoy spicy curries, this is an excellent ingredient to add potency.
For a citrusy, aromatic touch
-
1 tbsp. dried tangerine peel
Adds citrus notes that balance the more intense spices. Not essential but adds an interesting aroma to the blend.
How to make the homemade mixture step by step
Making homemade curry is easier than it sounds and allows you to adjust the flavor to your liking.
- Toast the spices: place the spices (grain only) in a pan without oil over low heat for 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Remember: powdered spices are added last, as heating them can make the mixture bitter.
- Let them rest: when you feel an intense aroma, it is time to remove them from the heat and let them cool completely.
-
Grind the mixture: add the cooled spices to a grinder or mortar and grind to a fine powder.
-
Combine with the powdered spices: add the rest and stir well until a homogeneous preparation is obtained.
Practical tips
- Always roast the spices in grains, this releases the essential oils and enhances the aroma of your recipe.
- Do not add salt to your homemade recipe, it is better to salt the dishes when serving.
- Use greaseproof paper when handling the mixture; it is more practical.
- If you are not used to spicy flavors such as cayenne, start with ½ tablespoon and adjust the amount to your taste.
How to store your mixture
- Store curry powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to preserve its aroma longer.
- When filling jars, tap gently to remove air and avoid spooning; the spices need to "breathe".
Why make homemade curry powder?
-
More freshness: the flavor of freshly ground spices is much more intense than that of a ready-made curry that has been packaged for months.
-
Flavor to your taste: you can adjust the proportions and create your own recipe according to your tastes.
-
Lower cost: compared to many commercial brands, preparing your own homemade curry is usually cheaper and yields much more.
-
Authentic: you know exactly what you are using, no coloring, additives or artificial ingredients.
If you are as passionate about cooking as we are, making your own homemade curry mix will be a unique and rewarding experience.
