Posted by author Madhu Gadia
Indian food is often equated with the word curry. But what is curry? Is it a dish with a yellow sauce, or is it anything prepared with curry powder? Over the years I have been asked numerous times from cooks questions like, “Did you forget to add curry powder to the Chicken Curry?” or “Where’s curry in the Curried Onions?” (which is a dish that doesn’t have any sauce). I can understand the confusion—let me attempt to clarify it here.
Curry powder is a spice blend that includes turmeric, which is an ingredient that makes dishes yellow. Curry powder has one flavor and it will make dishes have a similar color and taste. Most Indians do not use curry powder, but if they do it is for seasoning a particular dish. I do not use curry powder at all. For each dish, I use individual spices to create a different flavor and taste. For authentic flavors you, too, should use individual spices. Also, all Indian dishes are not in a sauce. For example, Curried Onions in The Indian Vegan Kitchen (page 101) is spiced onions without any sauce. I call it Curried Onions because it has spices such as turmeric, ground coriander, and cumin—typical spices in a curry powder.
If Indian food is still new to you and you feel it is mysterious and difficult, you’re not alone. In actuality, making Indian food is very easy; all you need is a good, easy recipe, spices, and a willingness to create. I have the recipes; you have the willingness, just go buy some spices and give it a try. To start your Indian spice pantry, first purchase the six most often used spices: cumin seeds, turmeric, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and brown mustard seeds. Then add other spices as you expand your culinary skills. Always remember, if you don’t have a spice, skip it rather than substituting it for another a spice, for substituting can totally change the flavor of a dish.
And for all you Indian cooking experts, you too will find amazing, yet simple and authentic recipes in The Indian Vegan Kitchen. This book is for anyone looking for vegetarian and vegan recipes.
For sample recipes go to www.cuisineofindia.com.
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