Curry Powder Vs. Curry Paste

Curry is often served with rice.

Curry refers to a number of Indian and Asian dishes, as well as to the herb and spice blends used to make them. These complex blends vary from region to region--but are usually made from freshly ground and pulverized herbs and spices.

Features

Curry powder usually contains only dried spices, while curry paste contains fresh components such as oil, herbs and liquid flavorings. This gives it a more intense taste than curry powder.

Components

Indian curries usually contain cumin, red pepper and other spices, while Asian curries contain lemon grass, coconut milk and other flavorings.

Uses

Both curry paste and curry powder can be used to make curry. It is common practice to "wake up" aromas in curry powder by briefly simmering it with oil, onions or fresh herbs. Curry paste needs no processing before it can be added to other ingredients.

Types

Curry mixes are most often sold in paste form, while Indian curry blends are more often available in powdered form

Variants

Japan, Iran, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Malaysia and the West Indies also have curry variants.

References

• Practically Edible.com: Curry
• Epicurious.com Food Dictionary: Curry Powder
• Cook's Thesaurus.com: Indian Herb & Spice Mixes

Resources

• What is the Difference Between Curry Powder & Curry Paste?
• How to Use Curry Paste
• Alton Brown's Curry Powder Recipe