All about Curry: curiosities and recipes

Learn more about curry

Curry is a blend of aromatic spices , widely used in Asian cuisine, especially in Indian cuisine. This versatile seasoning imparts a rich and complex flavor to dishes, combining sweet, spicy, and earthy notes . The term "curry" originally comes from the Tamil word "kari," meaning "sauce" or "soup." Over time, curry has become synonymous with a wide range of spicy dishes around the world.

The history of curry is ancient and fascinating . Its roots date back thousands of years, with the first traces of curry-like dishes appearing in the cuisine of ancient India . With the expansion of trade routes, Indian spices spread throughout the Middle East and Europe, influencing numerous culinary traditions.

Not just one ingredient: the most popular spice blend

Turmeric is one of the main ingredients, giving the dish its characteristic yellow color. In addition to the color, turmeric adds a slightly earthy and bitter flavor . Coriander is used in both seed and powder form. It has a citrus flavor with a slight nuttiness. Coriander seeds are often toasted to bring out their flavor before being ground.

Cumin is another key spice, with a warm, earthy flavor and a slight hint of lemon. Chili pepper adds heat , the amount and type of pepper used can vary greatly, allowing you to adjust the heat level to your liking.

Cardamom , in seed or powder form, adds a sweet, floral aroma. It is a potent spice, so it is used sparingly. Ground ginger adds a spicy, slightly sweet note. Garlic is a key ingredient, adding depth and rich flavor.

Onions are essential because they provide sweetness and a caramelized flavor when cooked for a long time. They are often sautéed until golden and soft. Garam masala is an Indian spice blend that often includes cinnamon , cloves, cardamom, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. It is added towards the end of cooking to preserve its aroma.

Curry in Different Cuisine of the World

Each country has developed its own unique style of curry, using local ingredients and adapting traditional cooking techniques. North Indian curries tend to be creamier and richer, often made with milk, yogurt, or cream. Ingredients such as clarified butter (ghee) and cashew nuts are used to add a velvety texture . A classic example is chicken curry .

South Indian curry is generally spicier and more aromatic, using ingredients such as coconut milk, tamarind and a variety of fresh spices such as curry leaves. It is often accompanied by rice and lentil preparations such as Sambar.

Thai red curry is known for its bright color and spiciness, achieved through the use of red chili peppers. Japanese curry , known as kare, is sweeter and thicker than other Asian variations. It is often served with rice and contains ingredients such as carrots, potatoes, and onions.

Popular Curry Recipes

Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the world's most popular curry dishes, often considered a British dish despite its Indian roots. It consists of marinated and grilled chicken pieces , served in a creamy tomato-based sauce, enriched with spices. It is known for its mild, creamy flavour , with a slight spicy note.

Katsu Curry is a Japanese variation of curry, consisting of basmati rice served with a thick, sweet curry sauce, accompanied by a breaded, fried pork cutlet (tonkatsu). Japanese curry sauce is less spicy than other Asian variations and often includes vegetables such as carrots and potatoes.

Vindaloo is a very spicy curry dish originating from the region of Goa , India. It is influenced by Portuguese cuisine and is made with meat marinated in vinegar and spices such as chili pepper, garlic and ginger. It is traditionally made with pork , but can also be made with chicken or lamb.

Chickpea curry is a tasty and nutritious dish that combines the goodness of chickpeas with the richness of curry spices. This dish is widely enjoyed in various cuisines, especially Indian and vegetarian cuisine . A preparation that involves cooking chickpeas in a rich and spicy sauce, obtained from a combination of spices, tomatoes, and coconut milk or yogurt.