Introduction of Curry Leaves and Fresh Spices

In this post we will focus on the use of fresh spices and also introduce the use of 'curry leaves'. A vegetarian recips will be featured; again different, but not too far off from what the westerner's palate is used to.

Fresh spices mean that rather than using powders, the raw hydrated forms are used. For example, grated ginger as opposed to powdered ginger.

Curry Leaves

Curry Leaves

In this post the use of curry leaves is introduced. Just what are curry leaves? 

Ever opened a packet of local curry and found two or three leaves mixed in with its contents. 

These are known as curry leaves and locally as 'karapeelay' leaves. It is also referred to as sweet neem leaves as compared to its cousin the bitter neem.

Recipe: Potato in Tomato Sauce

Potato in Tomato Sauce

Ingredients:

2 medium onions finely chopped

5 tbsp oil or ghee

2  - 4 cloves garlic crushed

1 tsp grated ginger

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

1 - 2 tsp chilli powder

1 lb potato chopped in large chunks

1 -2 lb tomatoes chopped

12 curry leaves

salt to taste

300 ml water

Method:

1. Heat oil or ghee and fry onions until transparent
2. Add garlic, ginger, turmeric, curry leaves and chilli powder and cook for about 2 mins.
3. Add potatoes and cook for another 2 mins
4. Add water and cook till tender
5. Add tomatoes and salt and simmer until juices are reduced by half.
6. Cover and cook on very low heat for further 10 to 15 mins.

Serve hot! SERVES 4

This recipe is simple, provides a different approach to how it is prepared here in Trinidad, and most of all a big time saver with a total preparation time of 35 mins. Just right for those with little time to spare and who wish to have a home cooked meal.

Recommendation: I have found "Indian Cookbook" by Zuju Shareef & Tim Luxton to be the perfect companion to exploring Indian cooking and highly recommend it to anyone on a culinary adventure. 

Next post will feature another using fresh spices including the use of curry leaves to bring out that unique and distinctive flavour that will make your dishes standout.