Mild curry masala
Gentle, coriander-based curry powder. Makes 2 cups
An everyday curry powder that's built on coriander seeds, so it's fragrant rather than fiery. Fennel, star anise and bay give it a sweet warmth, with just two red chillies for heat. Season curries with it when you want flavour without much heat.
- Total time
- 10 min
- Difficulty
- easy
- Serves
- 1
Ingredients
Method
0/4 doneStep 1: Heat ¼ tsp oil in a heavy pan over a low heat.
Step 2: Add 3 ½ oz coriander seeds, 2 tbsp aniseeds, 15 green cardamom pods, 2 bay leaves, 1 tbsp black peppercorns, 2 tbsp cumin seeds, 10 cloves, 2 star anise and 2 dried red chillies. Roast, stirring all the time, until fragrant.
5 minStep 3: Tip onto a plate and let the spices cool completely.
15 minStep 4: Grind to a powder. Store in an airtight jar, away from light and heat, and use within 3 months for the best flavour.
Badal Patel
Good to know
- How long does mild curry masala take?
- About 10 minutes in total: 5 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to cook.
- How many people does it serve?
- 1 as written. Change the servings above the ingredients and every amount scales to match.
- Is it vegan?
- Yes. It has no meat, fish, dairy or eggs.
- Is it gluten free?
- Yes, as written. Check the labels on stock, sauces and spice mixes, which sometimes contain gluten.
- Can I make it ahead?
- Yes. It keeps well, so you can cook it earlier in the day or the day before and reheat it.
- What can I use instead of coriander seeds?
- Ground coriander, same amount (add it later in the cooking; it burns faster).
- What can I use instead of aniseeds?
- Fennel seeds, same amount (milder).
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