Imagine stepping into the aromatic world of Indian cuisine right in the comfort of your own kitchen. The flavors, the colors, and the sheer delight of each bite are enough to transport you to the bustling streets of Mumbai or the serene banks of the Ganges. As you embark on this culinary adventure, we invite you to share your all-time favorite Indian curry recipe that never fails to bring a smile to your face. Whether it’s a fiery vindaloo, a comforting butter chicken, or a tangy masoor dal, we want to know the recipe that holds a special place in your heart and tantalizes your taste buds. So, grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and let the magic of Indian spices unfold as you reveal your beloved curry recipe that has become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Vegetarian Curry Recipes
Aloo Gobi
Aloo Gobi is a classic vegetarian curry recipe that features potatoes and cauliflower as the main ingredients. This hearty and flavorful dish is made by sautéing the vegetables with a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. The result is a delicious curry with a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Aloo Gobi can be enjoyed with steamed rice or freshly baked naan bread.
Palak Paneer
Palak Paneer is a popular Indian curry that combines spinach (palak) with cubes of cottage cheese (paneer). The spinach is cooked until wilted and then pureed to form a creamy base for the curry. The paneer is lightly fried and added to the spinach gravy, creating a dish that is not only nutritious but also incredibly delicious. Palak Paneer is best enjoyed with rice or roti.
Chana Masala
Chana Masala is a flavorful and spicy curry made with chickpeas (chana) that is loved by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. The chickpeas are simmered in a tomato-based gravy with a medley of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and chili powder. This vibrant and hearty curry is perfect with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread.
Baingan Bharta
Baingan Bharta is a smoky and flavorful eggplant curry that is a favorite in many Indian households. The eggplant is roasted until charred on an open flame, which imparts a unique smoky flavor to the dish. The roasted eggplant is then mashed and cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices to create a rich and aromatic curry. Baingan Bharta pairs well with roti or rice.
Chicken Curry Recipes
Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved chicken curry that is famous for its rich and creamy sauce. The chicken is marinated in yogurt and a blend of spices, then cooked in a tomato-based gravy enriched with butter and cream. The result is a luscious and indulgent curry that is best enjoyed with naan or rice.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful and aromatic curry that features succulent pieces of grilled chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce. The chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled to perfection before being added to the sauce. With its vibrant color and bold flavors, Chicken Tikka Masala is a crowd-pleaser that goes well with naan or rice.
Chicken Korma
Chicken Korma is a mild and creamy curry that is packed with flavor. The chicken is cooked in a fragrant blend of spices such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, then simmered in a rich and velvety sauce made with yogurt, cream, and ground nuts. The result is a luxurious curry that pairs perfectly with rice or naan bread.
Chicken Vindaloo
Chicken Vindaloo is a spicy and tangy curry that originates from the Indian state of Goa. The chicken is marinated in a fiery blend of red chilies, vinegar, and spices, then simmered in a thick and flavorful sauce. The combination of heat and acidity in this curry creates a unique and bold flavor profile. Chicken Vindaloo is best enjoyed with rice or naan bread.
Fish Curry Recipes
Goan Fish Curry
Goan Fish Curry is a delicious and tangy curry that showcases the flavors of Goa, a coastal region in India. The curry is made with fresh fish, coconut milk, and a blend of spices such as turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander. The result is a vibrant and flavorful curry that is best enjoyed with steamed rice or appam, a traditional South Indian bread.
Kerala Fish Curry
Kerala Fish Curry, also known as Meen Curry, is a delectable curry made with fish and the flavors of Kerala, another coastal region in India. The fish is cooked in a tangy and spicy sauce made with tamarind, coconut milk, and a unique blend of spices known as “masala.” This curry is typically enjoyed with steamed rice or kappa (tapioca) for an authentic Kerala dining experience.
Bengali Fish Curry
Bengali Fish Curry, or Maachher Jhol, is a light and flavorful curry that is a staple in Bengali cuisine. The curry is made with a variety of fish, such as rohu or katla, and cooked in a fragrant gravy made with mustard oil, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. This curry is known for its subtle flavors and is often served with steamed rice and a side of bhaja (fried) or bhorta (mashed) vegetables.
Malvani Fish Curry
Malvani Fish Curry is a spicy and aromatic curry that hails from the Malvan region of Maharashtra. The curry is made with a medley of fresh seafood, coconut, and an assortment of spices such as Malvani masala, which gives it its distinct flavor. This curry is best enjoyed with steamed rice or traditional Malvani bread known as “ghavan.”
Lamb Curry Recipes
Rogan Josh
Rogan Josh is a classic Kashmiri lamb curry that is known for its rich and aromatic flavors. The lamb is slow-cooked in a fragrant sauce made with onions, tomatoes, yogurt, and a blend of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. The result is a tender and flavorful dish that is traditionally served with naan bread or steamed rice.
Lamb Biryani
Lamb Biryani is a hearty and aromatic one-pot dish that combines tender pieces of lamb with fragrant basmati rice and a blend of spices. The lamb is marinated in yogurt and spices, then layered with partially cooked rice and slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a flavorful and aromatic biryani that is often garnished with fried onions, raisins, and fresh mint leaves.
Lamb Curry with Spinach
Lamb Curry with Spinach, also known as Saag Gosht, is a nutritious and flavorful curry that combines tender lamb with a generous amount of spinach. The lamb is slow-cooked in a gravy made with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, then simmered with fresh spinach until wilted. This curry is best enjoyed with rice or naan bread.
Lamb Kofta Curry
Lamb Kofta Curry is a delicious and indulgent curry that features succulent lamb meatballs cooked in a flavorful gravy. The koftas, or meatballs, are made with minced lamb and a blend of spices such as ginger, garlic, and garam masala. They are then simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce until tender and juicy. Lamb Kofta Curry pairs well with rice or naan bread.
Paneer Curry Recipes
Paneer Butter Masala
Paneer Butter Masala, also known as Paneer Makhani, is a creamy and aromatic curry that showcases cottage cheese (paneer) as the star ingredient. The paneer is cooked in a rich and velvety tomato-based gravy with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves). This indulgent curry is best enjoyed with naan bread or rice.
Kadai Paneer
Kadai Paneer is a spicy and flavorful curry that combines paneer with bell peppers and onions. The paneer is lightly fried before being cooked in a tangy and aromatic sauce made with tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a special blend of spices known as kadai masala. This hearty curry pairs well with naan bread or jeera rice.
Paneer Tikka Masala
Paneer Tikka Masala is a mouthwatering curry that features grilled paneer in a creamy and spiced tomato-based sauce. The paneer is marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled or roasted until golden and smoky. It is then added to a velvety sauce made with tomatoes, cream, and a fragrant blend of spices. Paneer Tikka Masala is best enjoyed with naan bread or jeera rice.
Matar Paneer
Matar Paneer is a comforting and flavorful curry made with green peas (matar) and paneer. The paneer and peas are cooked in a creamy and mildly spiced tomato-based sauce with a hint of sweetness. This curry is a favorite among vegetarians and pairs well with rice or naan bread.
Black Lentil Curry Recipes
Dal Makhani
Dal Makhani is a rich and creamy black lentil curry that is slow-cooked for hours to achieve a velvety texture and intense flavors. The black lentils, also known as urad dal, are cooked with kidney beans (rajma), onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. This indulgent curry is often garnished with a dollop of butter or cream and enjoyed with naan bread or rice.
Dal Tadka
Dal Tadka is a simple yet flavorful curry made with yellow lentils (dal) that are tempered with aromatic spices. The lentils are cooked until soft and then tempered with ghee, cumin, garlic, and dried red chilies, which gives it a smoky and distinct flavor. This comforting and nutritious curry is best enjoyed with rice or roti.
Rajma Masala
Rajma Masala is a popular North Indian curry made with kidney beans (rajma) cooked in a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce. The kidney beans are soaked overnight and then cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Rajma Masala pairs perfectly with steamed rice or naan bread.
Chole
Chole, also known as chickpea curry, is a classic Punjabi dish that is loved for its robust and flavorful nature. The chickpeas are cooked in a spiced tomato gravy with a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. This hearty curry is often served with fluffy bhaturas or steamed rice, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
South Indian Curry Recipes
Sambar
Sambar is a popular South Indian curry made with lentils and a variety of vegetables. The lentils are cooked until soft and then mixed with a tamarind-based gravy infused with a blend of spices such as fenugreek, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Sambar is typically enjoyed with idli, dosa, or steamed rice for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Coconut Curry
Coconut Curry, also known as Thengai Curry, is a creamy and aromatic curry made with fresh coconut, spices, and a variety of vegetables. The coconut is ground to a fine paste and then simmered with a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and other aromatic spices. This curry is a staple in South Indian cuisine and pairs well with steamed rice or appam.
Tomato Rasam
Tomato Rasam is a tangy and flavorful South Indian curry made with tomatoes, tamarind, and a blend of spices. The tomatoes are cooked with a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and other spices to create a light and refreshing curry. Tomato Rasam is often served as a comforting soup or enjoyed with rice and a side of papadums.
Sambhar Powder
Sambhar Powder is a flavorful spice blend that is the heart and soul of South Indian cuisine. This aromatic powder is made with a combination of roasted spices such as coriander, cumin, fenugreek, and dried red chilies. It is added to various South Indian curries, particularly sambhar, to enhance their flavors and create a delicious and authentic taste.
Mutton Curry Recipes
Hyderabadi Mutton Curry
Hyderabadi Mutton Curry is a rich and aromatic curry that is popular in the cuisine of Hyderabad, a city in southern India. The mutton is cooked in a flavorful sauce made with onions, tomatoes, yogurt, and a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. This curry is known for its tender and succulent meat and is best enjoyed with biryani or naan bread.
Mutton Masala
Mutton Masala is a spicy and aromatic curry that showcases the flavors of India in every bite. The mutton is cooked in a thick and flavorful gravy made with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices. This curry is perfect for meat lovers and pairs well with rice or roti for a satisfying meal.
Kashmiri Rogan Josh
Kashmiri Rogan Josh is a famous aromatic lamb curry from the Kashmir region of India. The lamb is slow-cooked in a fragrant sauce made with yogurt, fennel, ginger, and Kashmiri red chili powder, which gives it a vibrant red color. This rich and flavorful curry is typically enjoyed with steamed rice or Kashmiri pulao, a fragrant rice dish made with saffron and dried fruits.
Kerala Mutton Curry
Kerala Mutton Curry, also known as Eeral Curry, is a spicy and tangy curry that hails from the southern state of Kerala. The mutton is cooked in a thick and flavorful gravy made with coconut milk, tomatoes, and a blend of spices such as black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. This curry is often enjoyed with appam or traditional Kerala parotta, a layered flatbread.
Traditional Curry Recipes
Biryani
Biryani is a beloved and traditional Indian dish that combines fragrant basmati rice with meat, vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices. The meat, which can be chicken, lamb, or mutton, is marinated in yogurt and spices, then layered with partially cooked rice and slow-cooked to perfection. Biryani is known for its rich flavors, tender meat, and aromatic rice, making it a celebratory dish enjoyed on special occasions.
Chicken Curry
Chicken Curry is a classic and versatile dish that is loved by people all over the world. It is made with succulent pieces of chicken cooked in a flavorful tomato-based gravy with a variety of spices. This comforting and hearty curry is best enjoyed with rice or naan bread.
Palak Paneer
Palak Paneer is a vegetarian curry that combines spinach and cottage cheese. The spinach is cooked until wilted and then pureed to form a creamy base for the curry. The paneer is lightly fried and added to the spinach gravy, creating a dish that is not only nutritious but also incredibly delicious. Palak Paneer is best enjoyed with rice or roti.
Tandoori Chicken
Tandoori Chicken is a popular and flavorsome dish that is marinated in yogurt and a blend of spices, then cooked in a traditional clay oven called a tandoor. The result is succulent and smoky chicken with a charred and crispy exterior. Tandoori Chicken is often served as an appetizer or main course and is best enjoyed with naan bread and raita.
Curry Accompaniment Recipes
Naan Bread
Naan Bread is a soft and fluffy Indian bread that is the perfect accompaniment to any curry. The dough is made with flour, yeast, yogurt, and a pinch of sugar, then cooked in a hot tandoor or on a stovetop. The result is a delicious and chewy bread that is perfect for sopping up the flavorful curry sauces.
Basmati Rice
Basmati Rice is a fragrant and long-grained rice variety that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is known for its delicate flavor and fluffy texture, making it the perfect accompaniment to any curry. Basmati rice is typically cooked by the absorption method, where the rice is simmered in water until all the liquid is absorbed, resulting in perfectly cooked grains.
Cucumber Raita
Cucumber Raita is a cooling and refreshing yogurt-based condiment that pairs beautifully with spicy Indian curries. It is made by combining grated cucumber with yogurt, mint, cumin, and a pinch of salt. This creamy and tangy dip not only adds a burst of freshness to the meal but also helps to balance the flavors of the spicy curries.
Papadums
Papadums are thin and crispy lentil crackers that are commonly served as a side dish or appetizer in Indian cuisine. They are made by grinding lentils into a fine powder, then shaping them into thin discs and drying them in the sun. Papadums can be roasted or deep-fried until they become crispy and golden. They add a delightful crunch to any curry meal and can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of chutneys and sauces.
In conclusion, Indian cuisine offers a rich variety of curry recipes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer vegetarian options like Aloo Gobi or Palak Paneer, non-vegetarian delights like Butter Chicken or Hyderabadi Mutton Curry, or traditional favorites like Biryani and Tandoori Chicken, there is a curry recipe for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to try out the delicious accompaniments like Naan Bread, Basmati Rice, Cucumber Raita, and Papadums to elevate your curry experience. So, next time you’re craving a flavorful and aromatic meal, why not try your hand at cooking your favorite Indian curry recipe at home? You’ll be delighted by the burst of flavors and the satisfaction of creating a delicious and authentic dish in your kitchen.
