Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 18 delectable and aromatic curry spices recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these mouth-watering dishes are sure to delight your senses. With a medley of flavors from across India and beyond, each recipe is a masterclass in balancing bold spices, tangy chutneys, and rich sauces.
From the creamy richness of Butter Chicken to the fiery heat of Goan Fish Curry, every dish on this list is a testament to the versatility and complexity of curry spices. And with ingredients as varied as coconut milk, cumin seeds, and tamarind paste, you’ll be able to create your own unique flavor profiles.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of aromatic curries, exploring the secrets behind each recipe and providing step-by-step guides to help you recreate these culinary masterpieces in your own kitchen. So, let’s get started and embark on a flavorful adventure!
Fragrant Chicken Tikka Masala
Experience the authentic flavors of India with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Add onions and garlic to the skillet; cook until onions are lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and any accumulated juices from the marinade.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves. Serve hot over basmati rice or naan bread.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Spicy Coconut Lentil Curry
Warm up with this aromatic and spicy curry made with red lentils, coconut milk, and a blend of Indian spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook 1 minute.
4. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Golden Turmeric Chickpea Stew
This vibrant stew is a flavorful blend of comforting spices and tender chickpeas, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With the warmth of turmeric and the crunch of fresh cilantro, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium-sized onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Eggplant Bharta
This Indian-inspired recipe combines the sweetness of roasted eggplant with the smokiness of spices, perfect for a flavorful and healthy snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss eggplant slices with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and garam masala powder until evenly coated.
3. Spread the eggplant mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Butter Chicken
This rich and flavorful dish is a popular Indian-inspired comfort food that combines the tender juiciness of chicken with the creaminess of butter and spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut cream
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and stir in coconut cream. Season with salt and black pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fiery Goan Fish Curry
This aromatic curry from Goa, India, is a spicy and flavorful dish that combines the richness of fish with the warmth of spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish (any white fish works well), cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
– 1/4 tsp red chili powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2-3 green chilies, chopped (optional)
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fish broth or water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until they start to brown.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add fish pieces and cook until they are coated with the spice mixture.
4. Add green chilies (if using), tomatoes, and fish broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Warm Garam Masala Rice Pilaf
Warm Garam Masala Rice Pilaf: A fragrant and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of curries, stews, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Drain and add the soaked rice to the saucepan. Stir to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tangy Tamarind Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is a popular condiment in Indian cuisine, perfect for accompanying snacks, sandwiches, or as a dip. With its unique flavor profile, it’s sure to add a zing to your meals!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tamarind paste
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ginger powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tamarind paste, brown sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chutney thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and ginger powder (if using).
4. Let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Rich Lamb Rogan Josh
A classic Kashmiri dish that showcases the rich flavors of lamb cooked in a fragrant spice blend and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lamb pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and butter. Season with salt to taste.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 2 hours or until lamb is tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Zesty Lemon Coriander Soup
A refreshing and aromatic soup that combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of coriander, perfect for a chilly evening or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Mango Curry with Shrimp
Sweet Mango Curry with Shrimp: A tropical twist on a classic curry dish, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the sweetness of mango and the warmth of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, turmeric, and chili flakes. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, mango, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bold Kashmiri Dum Aloo
This recipe is a flavorful take on the classic Kashmiri dum aloo, with a bold and spicy twist. The tender potatoes are cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, perfect for those who love a little heat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of water
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add diced potatoes, diced tomatoes, water, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Toasted Cumin Potato Curry
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the warm, earthy taste of toasted cumin. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Indian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water or coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and curry powder. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the potatoes, diced tomatoes, water or coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Silken Paneer Korma
This Silken Paneer Korma recipe is a classic North Indian dish that combines the velvety smoothness of paneer with the richness of creamy spices. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this comforting curry is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 250g silken paneer (Indian cheese)
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add paneer and stir gently to combine with spice mixture.
4. Pour in coconut milk and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if desired) and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Spinach and Lentil Dal
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional dal, combining red lentils with fresh spinach and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh spinach leaves (about 1 cup)
– Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lentils and water; bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Peppery Black Chickpea Masala
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that combines the nutty goodness of chickpeas with a blend of spices, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, and black pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, and salt to taste.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Tomato Chutney
Sweet and savory, this chutney is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, naan bread, or as a dip for snacks. With its deep flavors, it’s sure to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re deep golden brown and caramelized.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fenugreek-infused Vegetable Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavorful vegetables, aromatic spices, and the subtle warmth of fenugreek. With its gentle bitterness and slightly sweet undertones, this dish is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, potatoes)
– 1 cup fenugreek leaves or 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek powder
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add garlic, cumin, and fenugreek leaves/powder. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 18 aromatic curry spices recipes! From classic Chicken Tikka Masala to innovative Vegetable Stew, each dish is infused with a blend of fragrant and bold spices. Discover the secrets to creating mouthwatering curries like Coconut Lentil Curry, Golden Turmeric Chickpea Stew, and Creamy Butter Chicken. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, tangy, or sweet, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection of curry recipes.
