How to Make Great Curry

Curry powder is not a spice in and of itself but rather a combination of spices. A culinary mainstay throughout India, curry varies from family to family, all of whom have their favorite recipes that are handed down from generation to generation. Create your own curry powder in small batches with different blends of the freshest spices.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Coriander
• Cumin
• Turmeric
• Cayenne
• Cinnamon
• Ground cloves
• Ginger
• Cardamom
• Mustard
• Peppercorns
• Coffee grinder
• Glass spice jars

Curry Powder

1. Dedicate a coffee grinder for use solely for grinding curry spices. Gather the spices and measure them into a bowl.
2. Toast the spices over medium heat in a heavy skillet to develop their flavors. Shake the skillet frequently or stir several times with a wooden paddle. Remove from the heat when the spices are fragrant and begin to turn color.
3. Allow the spices to cool. Grind them in small batches. Store in small glass jars with tight-fitting lids.
4. Experiment with different combinations of spices to create basic curry, sweet curry and spicy curry. Create a signature blend and share it with friends.

Making Curry

5. Start with a roux. Use ghee (clarified butter) and pureed onion, garlic and grated ginger root.
6. Cook the roux over medium heat, stirring constantly. Add the meat and/or vegetables when the roux turns a light, golden color.
7. Add several tablespoons of fresh curry powder and stir well. Lower the heat and cook until the flavors are nicely melded. Make sure the meat is properly cooked.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't store curry powder in plastic containers; the plastic imparts flavors to the spices.
• Use curry within a few months of making it. Fresher spices impart the most intense flavors.