This article provides an overview of curry powder, what it tastes like, its availability, alternative names, and of course what other ingredients make curry powder substitutes.
What is Curry Powder?
Curry powder is a mix of spices originating in the Indian subcontinent, that has been used for over 4000 years. Some key ingredients in curry powder include ginger, garlic, turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, black pepper, cardamom, and fenugreek.
Curry powder became popular in western markets as a ready-made mix, that can replicate the flavor of Indian sauces.
It was originally sold by Indian merchants to British traders and later introduced to Japan by British traders, where it became known as Japanese curry.
What does Curry Powder taste like?
Curry powder has a unique flavor thanks to the combination of both sweet and savory spices. The sweet spices include cinnamon and clove, while the savory is made up of cumin, turmeric, and bay leaf. These spices mix together to create a deep and earthy flavor.
Is Curry Powder readily available in Supermarkets?
Yes, curry powder should be readily available in supermarkets, it will often be found in the spices aisle or the world foods section.
What are some alternative names for Curry Powder?
The term curry powder is often used interchangeably with the traditional Indian spices, garam masala.
What is a good substitute for Curry Powder in recipes?
Luckily, there are a number of great substitutes for curry powder. These include:
- The best substitute for curry powder in recipes would be ground cumin, as it shares the most similar flavor
- You can also easily substitute for any rough combination of the individual ingredients in curry powder (ginger, garlic, turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, black pepper, cardamom, and fenugreek)