Types of Curry – Thai Green, Chicken Tikka Masala, Vindaloo & More

Curry is a diverse and flavorful cuisine enjoyed all around the world. From Thai Green curry to Chicken Tikka Masala and Vindaloo, there are countless variations of this beloved dish. Let’s explore the different types of curry and learn how to make them at home.

Key Takeaways:

• Curry is a versatile dish with numerous variations and flavors.
• Popular curry types include Thai Green, Chicken Tikka Masala, and Vindaloo.
• Curry recipes offer a wide range of options for both meat lovers and vegetarians.
• Thai curries are known for their spicy and aromatic flavors.
• Indian curries are rich in spices and offer a variety of heat levels.
• Exploring the world of curry is a delicious way to expand your culinary horizons.
• Homemade curry allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.

Achari Curry

Achari curry is a delightful dish that originates from the Punjab region of India. It is known for its unique blend of pickling spices, which give it a tangy and flavorful taste. The key ingredients in Achari curry are turmeric, fenugreek, black onion seeds, and mustard seeds, which create a distinct aroma and add a delicious kick to the dish.

Ingredients for Achari Curry

• Turmeric
• Fenugreek
• Black onion seeds
• Mustard seeds

The pickling spices are combined with other traditional Indian spices and cooked with meat or vegetables to create a mouthwatering curry. Mustard seed oil is commonly used in Achari curry, enhancing the overall flavor and adding richness to the dish.

“Achari curry is a perfect balance of spices and tanginess. The use of mustard seeds and pickling spices gives it a unique and bold flavor that is hard to resist.” – Chef Kapoor

Achari curry is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with rice, roti, or naan bread. Its bold and zesty flavors make it a favorite among curry enthusiasts. Whether you are a spice lover or appreciate a tangy twist, Achari curry is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Afghani Curry

Afghani curry is a hot and flavorful dish that is known for its bold spices and vibrant colors. This stir-fried curry is a staple in Afghan cuisine and is loved for its intense heat and rich flavors. The dish gets its heat from a generous amount of chillies, which are used to create a fiery sauce that coats the tender pieces of meat or vegetables. In addition to the chillies, red and green peppers are also added to the curry, adding a pleasant sweetness and crunch to every bite.

Afghani curry is a perfect dish for spice lovers who enjoy a hot and satisfying meal. The combination of stir-frying and the use of bold spices creates a dish that is bursting with flavor and heat.

If you’re looking to make Afghani curry at home, it’s important to note that the dish requires constant stirring and a hot pan to ensure even cooking. The high heat helps to bring out the flavors of the spices and creates a deliciously charred finish.

“Afghani curry is a spicy and stir-fried dish, typically made with plenty of chillies, red and green peppers. It is known for its bold flavors and minimal sauce.”

Variations of Afghani Curry

While Afghani curry traditionally features meat or vegetables as the main ingredient, there are several variations of the dish that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Some popular variations include:

• Afghani Chicken Curry: This version of the curry uses succulent pieces of chicken as the main protein, creating a satisfying and hearty dish.
• Afghani Vegetable Curry: For those who prefer a vegetarian or vegan option, this variation replaces the meat with a medley of fresh and seasonal vegetables, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the produce.
• Afghani Lamb Curry: Lamb is a popular meat choice in Afghan cuisine, and this variation highlights the tender and rich flavors of the meat, creating a decadent curry experience.

Overall, Afghani curry is a hot and fragrant dish that is sure to awaken your taste buds. With its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and spicy kick, it’s a curry that is loved by many and can be enjoyed with naan bread or steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a classic Indian dish that is both flavorful and versatile. It consists of tender potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi) cooked with aromatic spices and herbs. While it is commonly served as a side dish alongside a Thali, it can also be enjoyed as a main course. The combination of the soft potatoes and the slightly crunchy cauliflower provides a delightful texture, while the spices infuse the dish with a warm and comforting flavor.

When preparing Aloo Gobi, the potatoes and cauliflower are first parboiled and then stir-fried with a mixture of spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. These spices add depth and complexity to the dish, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Aloo Gobi is often garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, which add a refreshing touch to the overall presentation.

Many people enjoy Aloo Gobi as part of a traditional Indian meal, where it complements other dishes like dal, rice, and naan bread. Its versatility also allows it to be served with roti, chapati, or even as a filling for samosas. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or simply looking for a delicious side dish, Aloo Gobi is sure to satisfy your taste buds with its aromatic spices and hearty combination of potatoes and cauliflower.

Recipe for Aloo Gobi:

1. Peel and chop 2 medium-sized potatoes and break a small cauliflower into florets.
2. In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds.
3. Once the cumin seeds start sizzling, add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes golden brown.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
5. Next, add 2 chopped tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of red chili powder, 1 teaspoon of coriander powder, and salt to taste.
6. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the spices blend well.
7. Add the potatoes and cauliflower to the pan and mix well with the spices.
8. Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and cauliflower are tender.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Balti Curry

Balti curry is a medium-spiced curry that takes its name from the wok-shaped pan in which it is traditionally cooked and served. Although it is often associated with Indian cuisine, Balti curry actually originated in the city of Birmingham in the United Kingdom. In the 1980s, “Balti houses” became popular in the city, serving up this flavorful dish to locals and tourists alike.

The wok-shaped pan used to cook Balti curry allows for high heat and quick cooking, resulting in a dish that is full of vibrant flavors and textures. The curry itself typically includes a variety of spices, such as cumin, coriander, ginger, and garlic, along with tomatoes, onions, and a protein of choice, such as chicken, lamb, or vegetables.

One of the distinguishing features of Balti curry is its thick sauce, which is achieved by cooking the ingredients in the wok-shaped pan at a high heat. This method allows the flavors to intensify and meld together, creating a rich and aromatic curry that pairs perfectly with naan bread or rice.

How Balti Curry Differs from Karahi

While Balti curry and Karahi curry share similarities, there are a few key differences between the two. Both curries are cooked in a wok-shaped pan and have a medium spice level. However, Balti curry typically has a thicker sauce compared to Karahi curry, which tends to have a drier consistency.

Additionally, Balti curry is known for its use of Balti spice mix, which often includes ingredients like fennel seeds, cardamom, and cinnamon. This spice mix gives Balti curry its unique flavor profile. On the other hand, Karahi curry typically features a simpler spice blend, focusing more on the natural flavors of the ingredients.

In summary, Balti curry is a delicious and flavorful medium-spiced curry that originated in Birmingham. Its unique cooking method and spice blend set it apart from other curries, making it a must-try for curry enthusiasts.

Bhuna Curry: A Flavorful Medium-Spiced Dish

Bhuna curry is a delicious and versatile dish that is known for its medium level of spiciness. It is a popular choice among curry lovers who enjoy a balance of flavors without overwhelming heat. The term “bhuna” refers to the style of cooking, which involves frying the ingredients to enhance their natural flavors and create a thick, rich sauce.

One of the key ingredients in bhuna curry is tomatoes, which provide a tangy and slightly sweet taste to the dish. The onions, on the other hand, add a savory depth of flavor. Together, these ingredients form the base of the curry and create a delicious sauce that coats the meat or vegetables.

Whether you choose to make bhuna curry with chicken, lamb, or vegetarian ingredients like paneer or potatoes, you can expect a hearty and satisfying meal. The medium level of spiciness allows the flavors to shine through without overpowering the palate. Bhuna curry is often served with rice or naan bread, providing the perfect accompaniment to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Try your hand at making bhuna curry at home and experience the delicious flavors of this classic dish. With its rich tomato and onion-based sauce and medium level of spiciness, it is sure to become a favorite in your curry repertoire.

The Beauty of Bhuna Curry

One of the most appealing aspects of bhuna curry is the way it brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients. By frying the spices and other aromatics, the flavors are intensified and meld together to create a complex and satisfying curry. The slow-cooked process allows the ingredients to develop depth and richness, resulting in a truly flavorful dish.

“Bhuna curry is a comforting and delicious option for those who enjoy a medium-spiced curry. The combination of tomatoes, onions, and expertly fried spices creates a sauce that is rich in flavor and pairs perfectly with meat or vegetables. It’s a classic dish that is sure to impress.”

With its flavorful sauce and versatile nature, bhuna curry is a dish that can be enjoyed by curry enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re a fan of medium-spiced curries or looking to expand your culinary horizons, bhuna curry is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious and aromatic meal.

Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular curry dish enjoyed worldwide. It features a tomato and butter-based sauce, giving it a rich and creamy flavor. This mild to medium dish is a favorite among curry lovers for its delicious taste and comforting qualities.

Originating from the Indian subcontinent, Butter Chicken has gained immense popularity and can now be found on menus in various cuisines around the globe. It is known for its luscious gravy, made with a combination of tomatoes, butter, cream, and aromatic spices. The combination of tanginess from the tomatoes and richness from the butter creates a harmonious balance of flavors.

One of the reasons Butter Chicken has become popular worldwide is its versatility. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as naan bread, rice, or even a fresh salad. Its mild spice level makes it suitable for those who prefer a less fiery curry. Whether enjoyed at a restaurant or made at home, Butter Chicken promises a delightful dining experience that satisfies the taste buds.

Butter Chicken Recipe:

1. Marinate boneless chicken pieces in a mixture of yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, and a pinch of salt for 30 minutes.
2. In a pan, heat butter and add finely chopped onions. Sauté until golden brown.
3. Add tomato puree, Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, and a pinch of sugar. Cook until the butter separates from the mixture.
4. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it is tender and cooked through.
5. Finish the dish with a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of dried fenugreek leaves.
6. Serve hot with naan or rice.

In summary, Butter Chicken is a globally beloved curry dish with its tomato and butter-based sauce, mild to medium spice level, and creamy flavor. Its popularity can be attributed to its versatility, making it an appealing choice for both curry enthusiasts and those new to Indian cuisine. Whether you choose to indulge in it at a local restaurant or try your hand at making it at home, Butter Chicken is sure to leave your taste buds satisfied and craving for more.

Thai Green Curry

Thai Green Curry is a vibrant and aromatic dish that is a staple in Thai cuisine. The curry paste used in this recipe is the star ingredient, packed with flavors from green chilies, lemongrass, coriander, and other fragrant herbs and spices. The paste is sautéed in a pan with coconut milk, creating a rich and creamy base for the curry.

The combination of green chilies and coconut milk gives Thai Green Curry its signature spicy and creamy taste. The heat from the chilies is balanced by the coolness of the coconut milk, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors. The curry is typically served with jasmine rice or noodles, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce.

Thai Green Curry is a versatile dish, as you can customize it based on your preferences and dietary restrictions. Add your choice of vegetables, such as bell peppers, green beans, or bamboo shoots, for a vegetarian version. For a heartier meal, you can include chicken, shrimp, or tofu. The possibilities are endless, making Thai Green Curry a go-to recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Recipe:

Here’s a simple recipe to make Thai Green Curry at home:

1. Heat oil in a pan and add Thai green curry paste. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
2. Add coconut milk to the pan and bring it to a simmer.
3. Add your choice of protein (e.g., chicken, shrimp, or tofu) and vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, green beans, or bamboo shoots).
4. Cook until the protein is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with fish sauce and palm sugar, adjusting the flavors to your liking.
6. Serve Thai Green Curry hot with jasmine rice or noodles.

Enjoy the bold and enticing flavors of Thai Green Curry right in the comfort of your own home. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its aromatic spices and creamy sauce.

Table: Ingredients

Conclusion

Curry is a versatile and delicious dish that spans various global cuisines. Whether you’re craving the rich and creamy flavors of Indian curries like Chicken Tikka Masala and Vindaloo, or the spicy and aromatic Thai Green Curry, there is a type of curry to suit every palate.

One of the joys of curry is its diverse range of flavors. From the tangy and pickled spices used in Punjabi Achari Curry to the bold and hot flavors of Afghani Curry, each type of curry offers a unique taste experience that will awaken your taste buds.

While enjoying curry at a restaurant is a delightful experience, don’t forget that you can also create these mouthwatering dishes at home. Experiment with different ingredients and spices to customize your own homemade curry and explore the endless possibilities of this global culinary favorite.