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Homemade curry powder spices in a bowl for flavorful cooking.

Homemade Curry Powder

A fragrant homemade curry powder blend that enhances your dishes with fresh spices and personalized flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 30
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Whole Spices
  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds Offers a sweet, warm flavor; you can use 3/4 tablespoon ground coriander as a quick alternative.
  • 2 teaspoons cumin seeds Adds earthy tones; substitute with 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin if needed.
  • 2 teaspoons fenugreek seeds Provides a slight bitterness; replace with 1-1/2 teaspoons ground fenugreek if time is short.
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons green cardamom pods Imparts a citrusy flavor; use 1 teaspoon ground cardamom as a shortcut.
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns Adds warmth; can be swapped with 1-1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper.
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds Gives a slight heat; use 1-1/2 teaspoons ground mustard if you're in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric Known for both color and health benefits; this one’s essential.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds mild flavor and beautiful color; if you’re feeling adventurous, use 2-3 dried Kashmiri chilies instead.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger Contributes a sweet warmth; ground ginger is a great time-saver.
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne powder Optional; for those who like it spicy.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Optional; perfect if you enjoy sweet undertones in your curry blend.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If using whole seeds, pods, and chilies, heat a small pan to medium heat.
  2. Dry toast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, cardamom pods, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and dried chilies for 1-2 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant.
  3. Transfer the toasty mixture to a spice grinder and grind until smooth. Alternatively, use a mortar and pestle for a more hands-on approach.
  4. Sift if needed. Mix all of the ground ingredients together in a small bowl.
  5. Store in an airtight container until ready to use.
  6. If using only ground ingredients, simply combine and store. This mix makes about 1/4 cup.

Notes

Store your spices in a cool, dark place to maintain flavor. Adjust proportions according to your flavor preference—more cardamom for sweetness, or extra cayenne for heat!