Homemade Curry powder

[CWS4322]

A friend of mine is married to a guy from New Dehli. This is her curry powder recipe (she makes batches of it and gives it away at Christmas--it is amazing).

Curry Powder Master Recipe

Makes 1 cup

1/2 cup coriander seeds
15 dry red chili pods (optional, see Note)
1 1/2 teaspoons cumin seeds
1 1/2 teaspoons mustard seeds
1 1/2 teaspoons fenugreek seeds
1 1/2 teaspoons black peppercorns
15-20 curry leaves (dry or fresh, optional)
3 tablespoons turmeric powder

1. Mix coriander, chili pods, cumin, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and peppercorns in the container of an electric blender or spice mill and grind the spices to a fine powder in several batches. Pour into a bowl and combine well.
2. If you are using fresh curry leaves, dry them briefly (about 4 to 5 minutes) in an ungreased frying pan over low heat. Grind them in the blender and then add them to the spice powder in the bowl.
3. Stir in the turmeric.
4. Transfer the curry powder to an airtight jar, cover tightly, and store in a cool place for up to three months.
NOTE: For mild-tasting curry powder, reduce or eliminate chili pods.

 

[CraigC]

The seeds and dry chilis aren't toasted first?

Craig

 

[CWS4322]

I don't think so--I sent her an email to ask her that. This curry powder is really good--I love it.

 

[CraigC]

I don't think so--I sent her an email to ask her that. This curry powder is really good--I love it.

I asked because one of my favorite kitchen smells are cumin seeds in the grinder after they have been toasted.

Craig

 

[Hyperion]

the cumin seed and coriander and black pepper and red pepper should be toasted at least, I think

 

[CWS4322]

Well---play with it <g>. I think she got the recipe from her MIL. She is "Scandinavian" through and through, so this kind of cooking was not part of her "food" heritage.

 

[CWS4322]

Okay--she indicated the chilis should already be dried and she doesn't toast the seeds first.

 

[taxlady]

The fenugreek will get a funky smell that makes me nauseous in less than three months. Keep it in the freezer.