How To Cook Authentic Curry Recipes From Scratch

The aromatics, the lip-smacking taste, the irresistible flavour; curry is just one of those delicious and popular dishes that you can’t say no to. Often served with fluffy basmati rice, garlic chapati or as a bunny, it’s enjoyed all over South Africa and for good reason too. Sometimes making curry at home isn’t the same as when you order it from a restaurant. Even if you’ve tried your hand at making curry at home, odds are it wasn’t as flavourful or authentic as you would have hoped it to be – and that’s okay.

If you’re making curries with pre-made sauces or powders, that’s probably where the problem lies. Authentic curries are made from scratch with fresh ingredients and high-quality curry powders. This results in a less saltier curry and you can taste the flavour being developed from the curry powder. Making curry at home doesn’t have to be complicated. With our easy-to-follow guide on making delicious curry, you’ll be perfecting your techniques in no time!

How is Curry Made?

The beautiful thing about curry is that it’s made differently in many South African families. From chicken and vegetables to mutton and potato, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Curries have a reputation of being spicy and flavourful and the heat intensity differs on each person’s spice tolerance.

The first step to making a delicious curry is getting a good amount of oil hot in a pot and then adding aromatics such as garlic, ginger, diced chilli pepper and a teaspoon each of cumin, coriander and garam masala.

While it fries for a while, add crushed tomatoes and your curry powder, followed by your meat. Allow it to simmer for a while so that the flavours and ingredients fuse well.

What is the Key Ingredient in Every Curry Dish?

Not a lot of ingredients are needed to make a delicious and authentic curry. You’ll find that recipes that call for fewer, simpler ingredients and spices are the ones that are often the best in terms of taste and flavour. We all know that curries are made from curry powder, cumin, garam masala and chilli pepper. These are the key ingredients in every curry dish. Of course, you can’t forget about the essentials such as onion, ginger, and garlic. But, as long as you have a high-quality curry powder such as Rajah, you’re already halfway there!

How Do You Make Curry Taste More Authentic?

When you indulge in a good curry, you can tell that it has been simmering on the stove for hours. Sometimes, all it takes to make a curry taste more authentic is patience. You need to allow the curry flavours to develop and mature into the food, giving a kick of deliciousness to the meat and potatoes. You also need high-quality curry powder and other spices to ensure you’re getting the best flavour possible.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Authentic Curry Dishes

Learning how to cook curry at home is a process, but one worth learning. Here’s a quick and easy step-by-step guide to cooking authentic curry dishes in the comfort of your own home.

Gather All the Spices You’re Going to Need

If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start learning how to cook a curry by following a recipe. Every recipe shows the ingredients needed to create the dish. Read through the recipe and gather all the spices you’re going to need to start cooking.

Ensure You Have All the Ingredients You Need

Missing a few ingredients to make your curry? A quick trip to your local shop will do just the trick. Remember to read the labels properly so that you don’t bring home ingredients you don’t need; unless it’s to restock your pantry.

Find Out What You Can Substitute Without Compromising Your Meal

Ingredients and spices that are not available at the shop are a reality. Do your research and find out what you can substitute without compromising on your meal. For example, if they don’t have the curry powder you’re looking for, how can you make your one?

Authentic Curry Recipes You Can Make from Scratch

Authentic and delicious curry recipes await! Now that you’ve got all your spices and ingredients on hand, it’s time to decide what type of curry you’re in the mood for today. Here are some delicious curry recipes you can make from scratch.

Mutton Curry

Food is the ultimate comfort, and what could be more comforting than a hearty mutton curry? This recipe has just the right amount of heat and is packed with tender, fall-off-the-bone mutton. Serve with a spicy lentil dhal to take it to the next level.

Beef Curry

Rich, delicious and packed with lots of flavours, this authentic and flavourful beef curry recipe is so easy to make. Rajah Flavourful & Mild curry powder is the star of the show and provides this dish with gentle warm flavours. Serve this up with basmati rice.

Veggie Curry

Taking a break from meat? This easy lentil and cauliflower curry adds knock-out flavours with every bite – you won’t even miss the meat. Serve this delicious veggie curry with warm rotis or naan bread.

Start Creating Delicious and Authentic Curries Today

Now that you’re equipped with the skills and knowledge to whip up your homemade curry, it’s time to start creating authentic curries with Rajah today. From hot and medium to mild and light, find your heat preference and enjoy the beautiful flavours and aromatics of a delicious curry. For more out-of-this-world curry recipes made with Rajah, head on to WhatsForDinner and save those recipes for your next midweek meal.