Sauce/Seasoning Base | Vegan Diet (check brands) Gluten Free Diet (check brands) Vegetarian

Curry Paste

N/A (Culinary Preparation) Allergens: Shellfish,Soy,Tree Nuts
Curry Paste

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine Southeast Asian, South Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Herbs (Lemongrass, Galangal, Chili), Spices (Cumin, Coriander), Garlic, Shallots

The Forktionary Angle

"Simplify complex flavors with a spoonful of curry paste, unlocking aromatic depths in minutes."

Definition

A concentrated blend of aromatic spices, herbs, and other ingredients, forming the flavorful base for many curry dishes.

Sensory Profile

TasteComplex,Spicy,Aromatic,Umami,Salty,Sour
TextureThick,Pasty,Slightly Fibrous
AromaPungent,Herbal,Earthy,Citrusy,Spicy
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Primary Use

Flavor base for curries

Storage (Opened)

Refrigerate, up to 1-2 months

Types Available

Red, Green, Yellow, Massaman

Nutrition Facts

Per 15g (1 tbsp)
Calories100 kcal
Total Fat5 g
Saturated Fat0.5 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein3 g
Total Carbohydrate10 g
Dietary Fiber3 g
Total Sugars2 g
Calcium50 mg
Iron2 mg
Potassium250 mg

Chef’s Secret

Always sauté curry paste in a little oil until fragrant before adding other ingredients; this "blooming" process deepens and intensifies its flavors.

Substitutions

Best Match

Homemade Curry Paste

1:1

Allows for precise flavor and heat control, superior freshness.

Curry Powder + aromatics

1 tbsp powder + garlic/ginger for 1 tbsp paste

Good for flavor, but lacks the fresh herbal notes and texture; needs additional aromatics.

Pre-made Curry Sauce

Varies (often requires more volume)

Convenient, but less concentrated, may have different flavor balance.

Spice Blend (e.g., Garam Masala) + fresh chilis

Varies

For Indian-style curries, provides spice, but needs fresh chili for heat and some liquid.

Buying Guide

Read labels carefully for ingredients and allergens (fish paste, shrimp paste are common in Thai versions).

Flavor Pairings

Coconut Milk Rice Chicken Beef Vegetables Fish Noodles Cilantro.

Recipes Using Curry Paste

Angela's Chicken Tikka Masala image 133
Time To Make Chicken Curries Cuisine

Angela's Chicken Tikka Masala

Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of Angela's Chicken Tikka Masala! This recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish with ease. Using homemade curry paste (recipe included!) for an authentic taste, this vibrant and aromatic curry is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Skip the takeout and impress your family and friends with this delicious recipe. Get ready for tender chicken in a luscious, flavorful sauce – you won't be disappointed!

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Baby Carrot Soup With Cilantro And Curry image 167
Soups Stews Easy Course Presentation

Baby Carrot Soup With Cilantro And Curry

Warm up with this vibrant and flavorful Creamy Baby Carrot, Cilantro & Curry Soup! This easy recipe uses fresh, simple ingredients to create a luxuriously smooth and aromatic soup perfect for a cozy night in. Inspired by a thrifty find at our local grocery store, this recipe proves that delicious doesn't have to be expensive. Get ready to enjoy a taste of sunshine in every spoonful!

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