10 Best Substitutes For Curry Powder You Should Try

Best Substitutes For Curry Powder
8 min reading time

Do you have a pot on the stove and find the curry powder container empty? Maybe you are planning to cook an Indian dish and curry powder is a crucial ingredient to add a strong and awesome flavor to cooking.

In case you are thinking of changing the menu, don’t do that. I am sure that your kitchen has some alternative options that you can use in cooking.


No matter what you are cooking like sauces, stews, soups, or marinades, you are open to using so many herbs. In this article, I have covered some spices that you can use in any kind of dish instead of curry powder.

What Is Curry Powder Made Of?

Curry powder is a blend of spices that originates from India. It is a blend of spices that is typically used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine. The exact ingredients vary depending on the region, but most blends include turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili pepper.

When shopping for curry powder, be sure to read the label carefully. Some blends may contain salt, sugar, ginger, cloves, fenugreek and other additives. For a more authentic flavor, look for a brand that specializes in Indian spices. However, don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands until you find one that you like.

So, if you are looking to add a bit of spice to your next meal, try using curry powder the next time you cook!

What Does Curry Powder Taste Like?

When it comes to curry powder, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The taste of curry powder can vary depending on the specific blend of spices used.

However, there are some common flavor profiles that are often found in curry powder. These include earthy flavors like cumin and turmeric, as well as warm and spicy notes from chili peppers. In addition, curry powder often has a slightly sweet taste, thanks to the addition of ginger or sugar.

Overall, curry powder is a complex and flavorful spice that can add a delicious dimension to many different dishes.

10 Best Substitutes For Curry Powder

Do you like curry but don’t have any curry powder? Or maybe you’re all out of curry powder and need a substitute. Well, I’ve got the perfect solution for you! Just use this recipe to make your own substitutes for curry powder. It’s quick, easy, and best of all, it tastes great. So go ahead and give it a try!

1. Garam Masala

Garam Masala - substitutes for curry powder

Garam Masala is a spice blend that also originates from India. It is typically made with a combination of cumin, coriander, cardamom, cloves, and pepper. While it can be used as a substitute for curry powder, it will give almost a similar flavor to the dish.

While both blends include some of the same spices, garam masala is generally more intense in flavor. As a result, it is often used sparingly as a finishing touch, rather than being used as a primary flavoring agent.

When substituting garam masala for curry powder, it is important to start with less and add more to taste. Otherwise, your dish may end up being too spicy!

2. Ground Cumin

Ground Cumin - substitutes for curry powder

You might be surprised to learn that ground cumin makes an excellent stand-in for curry powder. Both spices have origins in India and are commonly used in Indian cooking.

However, they also share a number of other similarities. Both spices are reddish-brown in color, and they have a similar earthy flavor. In addition, they are both versatile spices that can be used in a wide variety of dishes.

So, if you find yourself without curry powder, don’t panic! Ground cumin is a great substitute that is sure to give your dish the flavor you’re looking for.

3. Curry Paste

Curry Paste - substitutes for curry powder

Curry paste is a great substitute for curry powder, and it’s easy to make at home. Simply combine equal parts cumin, coriander, and turmeric with a little ginger and garlic. Add water as needed to create a smooth paste, then add it to your favorite recipes.

You can also use Curry paste as a marinade for meat or vegetables. Just coat the food in the paste and let it sit for an hour or two before cooking. The result is a flavorful dish that is sure to please your guests.

So next time you’re looking for curry powder, try curry paste instead.

4. Chaat Masala

Chaat Masala - substitutes for curry powder

Chaat masala is a mixture of spices that includes coriander, cumin, black pepper, ginger, and chili pepper. It is often used as a finishing spice, sprinkled on top of finished dishes.

This spice blend has a bright and citrusy flavor, making it a great addition to many different kinds of dishes. While it can be used as a substitute for curry powder, chaat masala also pairs well with other spices such as turmeric and garam masala. So next time you’re looking for a little something extra in your cooking, reach for the chaat masala.

5. Sambar Powder

Sambar Powder - substitutes for curry powder
Source: holycowvegan.net

If you’re looking for a curry powder substitute, sambar powder is a great option. This Indian spice blend is usually made with roasted Bengal gram, fenugreek seeds, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and chili peppers.

Sambar powder has a complex flavor that can add depth and dimension to any dish. It’s perfect for curries, stews, and soups.

Just remember that a little goes a long way – you don’t want to overpower your dish with this potent spice blend. So start with a small amount and add more to taste. You’ll be surprised at how much flavor sambar powder can add to your favorite recipes.

6. Curry Roux

Curry Roux - substitutes for curry powder
Source: cookingtoentertain.com

Curry roux is a concentrated paste that is made from a mixture of spices, oil and flour. This combination gives curry roux a richer flavor than curry powder, making it perfect for those who want to take their curries to the next level.

In addition, curry roux is much easier to use than curry powder, as it does not need to be measured out or blended. Simply add it to your dish and enjoy the delicious flavor it adds.

So, reach for the curry roux instead of the curry powder. You’ll be glad you did!

7. Coriander Seeds

Coriander Seeds - substitutes for curry powder

You can use coriander seeds as a substitute here. Just grind up the seeds in a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle and use them in place of curry powder.

You may need to adjust the amount you use, as curry powder is usually a blend of several spices, including coriander, cumin, and turmeric. But don’t worry, you can always add more if needed. Just be sure to taste as you go so you don’t overdo it.

And who knows, you may find that you like this homemade curry powder even better than the store-bought kind!

8. Tandoori Masala

Tandoori Masala - substitutes for curry powder

Tandoori masala is a fragrant and flavorful spice blend that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. While it is traditionally used to marinate and cook meats in a tandoor oven, it can also be used as a curry powder substitute.

The key ingredients in tandoori masala are coriander, cumin, paprika, ginger, and Garam masala. These spices are combined to create a hearty and pungent flavor that is perfect for pairing with rice or naan bread.

Tandoori masala can be found in most Indian grocery stores, or it can be made at home using fresh spices. Either way, it is a great way to add a touch of flavor to any dish.

9. Allspice and cumin

Allspice and cumin - substitutes for curry powder

Allspice and cumin are two good options. Both allspice and cumin have a warm, earthy flavor with hints of sweetness. They also share some of the same aromatic qualities as curry powder.

When substituting, use half as much allspice or cumin as you would curry powder. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of curry powder, use 1/2 tablespoon of allspice or cumin instead.

If you have both allspice and cumin on hand, you can also mix them together to create a more complex flavor. Simply combine 1/4 teaspoon each of allspice and cumin to replace 1 tablespoon of curry powder.

10. Make your own blend

Ingredients

  • Coriander powder – 15 grams
  • Cumin powder – 8 grams
  • Chilli powder – 5 grams
  • Turmeric powder – 5 grams
  • Black pepper – 5 grams
  • Ginger powder – 5 grams

You can easily make your own blend at home, as well. All you need is a few common spices and you’ll be ready to cook up a delicious curry in no time.

So what goes into curry powder? The answer may vary depending on who you ask, but common ingredients include turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder.

Some recipes also call for ginger, fenugreek, and black pepper. Once you have all of your ingredients assembled, simply mix them together in a bowl and voila! You’ve got your very own homemade curry powder. Now get cooking!

Conclusion

Thank you for reading! I hope this article was helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please let me know in the comment section below. Have a great day!

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