Curry is a delicious dish that can be endlessly customized to suit different tastes. While the basic ingredients for curry powder are usually some combination of spices like coriander, turmeric, cumin, fenugreek, chili powder, and garlic, there are many ways to enhance the flavor of curries by adding extra ingredients.
Vegetables
Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutrition profile of curries and provide extra texture and flavors. Some excellent veggies to use are:
- Onions – Caramelized onions add sweetness
- Tomatoes – Add a juicy, tangy flavor
- Potatoes – Thicken the curry and add heartiness
- Cauliflower – Soaks up the rich sauce
- Spinach – Wilts down for a healthy addition
- Bell peppers – Contribute bright colors and crunch
- Eggplant – Becomes velvety soft when cooked
- Peas – A touch of natural sweetness
Fresh Herbs
Herbs can take a basic curry from bland to brilliant. Consider adding:
- Cilantro – Essential for many curries, offers a fresh, aromatic flavor
- Mint – Brightens up curries with its cooling menthol notes
- Basil – The sweet licorice-anise flavor pairs wonderfully with warm spices
- Fenugreek leaves – Delicate, bitter flavor that accentuates other spices
Spices and Seasonings
Additional spices and dried seasonings can customize curries and enhance the depth of flavor. Consider adding:
- Cinnamon – Warming sweetness
- Cloves – Bit of heat and floral aroma
- Cardamom – Sweet and intensely aromatic
- Garam masala – A mix of spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon
- Curry leaves – Unmistakable curry flavor
- Cayenne pepper – Brings up the heat level
- Paprika – Adds a touch of mild smokiness
Acids
A splash of acid is an easy way to brighten and balance out richer, heavier curries. Good options include:
- Lemon juice
- Lime juice
- Tamarind paste or concentrate
- Tomatoes
- Yogurt
Fats
Rich, flavorful fats help blend spices, carry aromas, and impart luxurious texture to curries. Go beyond ghee or vegetable oil with:
- Coconut milk – Sweet and creamy
- Cashews – Blended into a smooth paste
- Heavy cream – Finishing touch of richness
Sweeteners
A touch of sweetness balances out sharper notes and mellows the heat. Honey, palm sugar, brown sugar or jaggery all complement curries beautifully.
Umami Boosters
Bringing out more savory, meaty flavors gives curries satisfying depth. Options like:
- Soy sauce
- Fish sauce
- Miso paste
- Dried mushrooms
All enhance the umami factor.
Protein
In addition to veggies, add hearty proteins like:
- Chickpeas
- Lentils
- Paneer
- Tofu
- Tempeh
- Chicken, beef or pork
- Shrimp, scallops or fish
For a complete, satisfying meal in one pot.
Conclusion
Curry is incredibly versatile. While traditional curry powders provide the base, there are endless possibilities for enhancing flavor, texture and nutrition. Experiment with different add-ins like fresh herbs, extra spices, vegetables, proteins and more to invent your own signature curry creation.