Now that you know more about curry powder and garam masala, you might assume that curry is only accessible in Asia. However, this is far from the truth.
Now that you know more about curry powder and garam masala, you might assume that curry is only accessible in Asia. However, this is far from the truth. Many countries, both in Asia and out, have their versions. Each version will have a different color, flavor, and heat index. For right now, let’s go on a world tour of all the different varieties of curry you need to sample!
India
Seeing as how curry originated here, it only stands to reason that it would be home to the biggest assortment of curry dishes you can find anywhere in the world. However, you can find many examples right here in the States, even if you don’t feel ready to backpack through the Himalayas. Look for madras masala curry which has cayenne, clove, and fenugreek. Tomatoes and chilies combine with the spices and seep into the protein of your choice: chicken, beef, or seafood.
Other Indian curries include korma, rogan josh, vindaloo, and saag. Then there is chicken tikka masala. Often paired with naan flatbread, it is one of the most delicious comfort foods that you can find anywhere. Believe it or not, chicken tikka masala has become one of the national dishes of England! You can’t forget about jalfrezi, either. The other curry dishes might overshadow it, but that doesn’t make it any less delicious. It is thick, dry, and hot enough to keep your taste buds on their toes.
Thailand
When you come to Thailand, the curry here comes in paste form. You might only think that there are three colors of curry: red, green, and yellow. But that is also a misconception. Unique ingredients include the use of coconuts, basil, mango, eggplant, and bell peppers. Red curry is the hottest, followed by green curry, and then yellow curry is the mildest. Turmeric, lemongrass, and galangal help make yellow curry dishes also taste sweeter relative to the other colors. Looking for something with no kick? Then you might be intrigued by Massaman curry, which is warm, sweet, and influenced by Persian cuisine.
Japan
Japanese curry tends to be darker and spicier. Butter and flour are made into a paste that binds together black peppercorns, garam masala, madras curry, turmeric, rice, meat, carrots, potatoes, fried eggs, and pork katsu.
Ceylon
Ceylon or Sri Lankan curry almost tastes like barbecued meats you grew up eating in the summertime. It is tart and sweet at the same time. The spices are roasted and then turned into powder or paste. Other ingredients include coconut milk, limes, cashews, and tropical fruits.
Indonesia and Malaysia
In Indonesia and Malaysia, curry is called rendang. Although it is dry, it is surprisingly spicy. It is also sweet, sour, and savory, all at the same time.
Macao
We finish our curry world tour, at least for now, in Macao. Here, the curry dishes are influenced by Portuguese sensibilities. Dark meat chicken, madras curry powder, coconuts, and potatoes are the base. Then olives, tomatoes, pork, parsley, and lemon are all added into the mix.
Get All Your Asian Groceries at Lotte Plaza Market
Lotte Plaza Market is your one-stop-shop for all of your Korean and Asian grocery needs. With more than 10 locations in Maryland and Virginia, this growing market is always expanding and opening new markets to serve our customers better. Since we opened in 1976, our goal has always been to provide the best customer service and groceries to our customers. For answers to all of your questions, please email us at LottePlaza.com.