Irish curry recipe (Easy Irish curry sauce + stew)

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Irish Curry recipe – Let’s dive into the tantalizing world of homemade Easy Vegan Irish Stew recipe – It’s a dish that’s not only hearty and wholesome but also a burst of flavors that dance on your taste buds.

Picture this: A steaming bowl of rich, aromatic hearty smooth curry sauce stew, vibrant with colors, adorned with tender chunks of potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, all mingling in a velvety spicy curry sauce that’s both creamy and tangy. We’re talking meaty texture, perfect for a cold day, vegetarian stew! As the fragrant spices of the hearty Irish stew waft through your kitchen, you know you’re in for a culinary comfort food adventure that promises satisfaction and warmth.

But what truly sets this Irish curry apart? It’s the fusion of the traditional Irish ingredients we all know and love with the exotic allure of curry spices we know from regular Indian curry. This is a recipe that embodies the spirit of Ireland, where the love for hearty meals meets a touch of the extraordinary. It’s a unique combination of Indian food and Irish recipes coming together in the tastiest of ways!

Hearty vegan stew

Think of each spoonful: tender green or brown lentils adding a delightful bite, the warmth of curry powder, the earthiness of cumin, the inviting hue of paprika, and the golden glow of turmeric. All of these come together in a symphony of flavors that will whisk you away to a place where comfort food meets culinary chunky vegetables adventure. It’s a delicious stew that will heat you up in cold weather.

And the best part? You can customize it to your liking, making it as mild or as spicy as your taste buds desire. Top it off with a sprinkling of fresh cilantro or parsley, and you’ve got yourself a masterpiece of a meal that’s as visually pleasing as it is delicious.

This Vegetarian Irish Curry is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey of flavors, a fusion of cultures, and a celebration of the culinary wonders that can emerge when we dare to mix tradition with adventure. So, are you ready to embark on this delightful gastronomic quest? Let’s get cooking and savor the magic of homemade Vegetarian Irish Curry!

What is Irish Curry

Ah, Irish stew or curry, a delightful fusion of flavors that captures the essence of Ireland’s love for hearty dishes and a touch of exotic spices! Let’s dive into what makes this dish uniquely Irish.

The Heart of Irish Curry:

The Irish stew or curry is a comforting vegetarian dish that beautifully combines traditional Irish ingredients with the vibrant spices of curry. It’s a perfect example of how Irish cuisine has evolved over time, embracing global influences while staying true to its roots.

The Veggie Goodness:

At the core of this dish are lentils, those tiny protein-packed legumes that are a staple in many Irish households. Lentils bring a hearty and earthy quality to the curry, making it both filling and nutritious. We also toss in some carrots, bell peppers, and potatoes, because what’s an Irish dish without spuds?

Spices that Sing:

What sets Irish curry apart is the harmonious blend of spices. Curry powder takes center stage, lending its warm and aromatic profile. But we don’t stop there – ground cumin, paprika, and turmeric join the party, infusing the curry with depth and richness. These spices give the dish its distinctive flavor, making each bite an adventure.

A Dash of Tomato Tang:

Diced tomatoes add a touch of acidity and sweetness, balancing the richness of the spices. They also create a luscious sauce that envelops the lentils and vegetables, ensuring that every mouthful bursts with flavor.

Creamy Chickpeas:

Chickpeas, those versatile legumes, find their way into Irish curry too. They bring a creamy texture and an extra layer of protein to the dish, making it a wholesome meal.

Vegan Cooking Adventures:

Now, here’s where the fun begins. You can prepare vegetarian Irish stew recipe on the stove, in a crockpot, or in an instant pot, making it adaptable to your cooking style and schedule. Whether you’re simmering it slowly on the stove, letting it meld together in the crockpot, or opting for the speedy Instant Pot version, the end result is always a bowl of comforting deliciousness.

A Final Flourish:

Don’t forget the garnish! Fresh cilantro or parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that elevates the dish. It’s the finishing touch that ties everything together.

So, there you have it – Irish curry, a heartwarming, flavor-packed creation that marries the best of Irish and global influences. It’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul, whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy evening or sharing it with friends and family. Sláinte (cheers) to your culinary adventure in the world of Irish cuisine!

British curry recipe history

The history of British curry recipes is a fascinating tale of culinary fusion and cultural exchange. Here’s a glimpse into the love for curries in British cuisine and how the recipe has evolved over the years:

Early Introduction of Curry to Britain:

The British fascination with curry dates back to the days of the British Empire. During the colonial period, British officers and explorers encountered a variety of flavorful and spiced dishes in India and other parts of South Asia. These encounters led to the introduction of curry to the British palate.

The First British Curry Recipe:

The first recorded British curry recipe appeared in “The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy” by Hannah Glasse in 1747. It was a basic recipe for a spiced stew called “currey,” which consisted of chicken, rice, and a mix of spices. Early British curries were often milder and simpler than the complex and diverse curries of South Asia.

The Influence of the Raj:

The British Raj in India (1858-1947) further deepened the connection between British cuisine and Indian flavors. British officials and expatriates in India developed a taste for the local cuisine, and Indian cooks often adapted their dishes to suit British palates. This fusion of British and Indian culinary traditions gave rise to “Anglo-Indian” cuisine.

Curry Houses in Britain:

The 20th century saw the emergence of curry houses in Britain, particularly in cities with diverse populations. These establishments served a range of curry dishes, catering to both British and immigrant communities. By the mid-20th century, curry had become a popular dish in Britain.

Chicken Tikka Masala and Fusion Cuisine:

One of the most iconic examples of British curry evolution is the creation of Chicken Tikka Masala. This dish, featuring marinated and grilled chicken in a creamy tomato sauce, is said to have originated in the UK. It represents the fusion of Indian and British tastes, combining elements of both cuisines.

Diversity and Regional Variations:

As Britain became more multicultural, the variety of curries available expanded significantly. Regional Indian, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani cuisines all contributed to the diverse curry offerings found in British restaurants.

Modern British Curry Culture:

Today, curry is a beloved and integral part of British cuisine. The UK is home to countless curry houses, and “going for a curry” is a common dining choice. British curries range from mild to fiery, catering to a wide range of preferences.

British Curries

The British love for curry is a testament to the country’s openness to culinary influences from around the world. What started as an introduction during the colonial era has evolved into a thriving and diverse curry culture that has left an indelible mark on British cuisine. It’s a delicious example of how food can bridge cultures and create new culinary traditions.

Equipment needed to make Irish curry recipe

To make this Irish curry recipe successfully, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment:

1. Large Pot (for Stovetop Version): You’ll need a large, heavy-bottomed pot for sautéing the ingredients and simmering the curry. A soup pot or Dutch oven works well. Alternatively, you can use a large skillet to saute the ingredients in a tbsp vegetable oil. 

2. Pan (for Crockpot Version): You’ll use a regular frying pan or skillet to sauté the onions and garlic before transferring them to the slow cooker.

3. Crockpot/Slow Cooker (for Crockpot Version): This is essential for the slow cooking method. Make sure your crockpot is appropriately sized for the recipe.

4. Instant Pot (for Instant Pot Version): If you’re using the Instant Pot method, you’ll need an Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker with sauté and pressure cooking functions.

5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in cooking, so have measuring cups and spoons on hand for both liquid and dry ingredients.

6. Cutting Board and Knife: You’ll need these to chop the onion, garlic, carrot, bell pepper, and potatoes.

7. Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and sautéing ingredients.

8. Lid or Cover: Ensure you have a lid or cover for your pot or crockpot to cover and simmer the curry.

Optional extra equipment

9. Optional: Ladle or Serving Spoon: Useful for portioning out servings of the curry.

10. Optional: Timer: A timer can help you keep track of cooking times, especially when using the Instant Pot or slow cooker.

11. Optional: Trivet (for Instant Pot Version): If you want to elevate the curry away from the bottom of the Instant Pot to prevent burning, a trivet can be handy.

With these basic kitchen tools, you’ll be well-prepared to create a delicious Irish curry using the stovetop, crockpot, or Instant Pot methods. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Irish curry recipe ingredients

Here’s a list of the basic ingredients and their purpose in creating a delicious Irish stew – vegan recipe:

1. Green or Brown Lentils (1 cup, 200g): Lentils add heartiness and a good source of plant-based protein to your Irish curry, making it satisfying and nutritious. Lentils are a great source for vegan protein and gives the hearty vegan beef stew a meathy texture.

2. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Olive oil serves as the cooking fat and adds a delightful richness to the curry sauce. Alternatively, you can use sunflower oil or your preferred vegetable oil to prevent the spices to stick to the bottom of the pan.

3. Onion (1, diced): Diced onions bring a sweet and savory base note to your curry, enhancing its depth of flavor. Saute to make delicious caramelized onions that will enhance the satisfying sweet flavor of the textured sauce.

4. Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Minced garlic infuses the curry with its aromatic essence, contributing to its delicious aroma.

5. Carrot (1, diced): Diced carrots provide a touch of natural sweetness and a lovely orange hue to the curry.

6. Bell Pepper (1, diced): Diced bell peppers introduce a vibrant burst of color and a subtle hint of sweetness to the dish.

7. Potatoes (2, peeled and diced): Peeled and diced potatoes offer creaminess and an authentic Irish touch to your curry.

Spices and seasonings

8. Curry Powder (2 tablespoons): Curry powder is the star of the show, delivering a harmonious blend of spices that define the curry’s flavor. Use hot curry powder or american mild curry powder to make your own homemade version of the spicy sauce to fit your heat level.

9. Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon): Ground cumin adds warmth and earthiness to the curry, enhancing its overall aroma and taste.

10. Paprika (1 teaspoon): Paprika brings a mild smokiness and vibrant color to the curry, making it visually appealing.

11. Turmeric (1 teaspoon): Turmeric contributes both color and earthy flavor to the curry, along with potential health benefits.

12. Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz/400g): Canned diced tomatoes provide a tangy and slightly sweet tomato base for your curry sauce.

13. Chickpeas (1 can, 14 oz/400g): Drained and rinsed chickpeas bring a nutty texture and additional protein to the curry.

Sauce ingredients

14. Vegetable Broth (2 cups, 480ml): Vegetable broth serves as the liquid foundation, infusing the curry with savory depth.

15. Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are key seasonings, enhancing the overall taste and balancing the flavors.

16. Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: These fresh herbs add a burst of color, freshness, and a hint of herbal flavor to garnish your curry.

17. Optional Curry Sauce (1 cup): The optional curry sauce adds extra sauciness and flavor if you prefer your curry on the saucier side.

18. Optional: vegan stout beer or guinness beer: the optional stout beer gives the vegan stew recipe that Irish Guinness stew flavor that’s delicious with the hearty vegetables.

With these thoughtfully selected ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating a flavorful and satisfying Irish curry that’s bound to impress your taste buds and dinner guests alike!

Curry sauce recipe

Here’s a quick and easy curry sauce recipe that you can use as a base to make various curries. It’s great for meal prep, and I like to keep a bottle of this delicious coconut curry sauce ready made in my refrigerator. It’s also a great sauce for freezing. These measurements are approximate, so feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste:

Basic Chinese curry sauce Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons (30g) curry powder (adjust to your preferred spice level)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) tomato paste or tomato purée
• 1 tablespoon (15g) olive oil or coconut oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ginger, grated or minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Quick curry sauce Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Stir in the curry powder and cook the aromatic spice blend for about a minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.

4. Add the tomato paste and stir well to combine with the spices and onions. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to remove the raw taste of the tomato paste.

5. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to create a smooth sauce. If you want a thicker sauce, you can use less broth.

6. Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. The sugar is optional but can help balance the flavors.

7. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer at medium-high heat and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken and flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.

8. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add more curry powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

9. Your quick and easy curry sauce is ready! You can use it as a base for various curry dishes by adding cooked vegetables, legumes, tofu, or your protein of choice. Or serve as a chip shop curry sauce with a side of steak fries, french fries, or curry chips for an authentic Irish chip shops experience. 

This versatile curry sauce can be customized to suit your preferences, making it a great shortcut to creating delicious curries in a hurry.

Easy vegan Irish stew recipe

A steaming bowl of rich, aromatic hearty smooth curry sauce stew, vibrant with colors, adorned with tender chunks of potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, all mingling in a velvety spicy curry sauce that’s both creamy and tangy. We’re talking meaty texture, perfect for a cold day, vegetarian stew!

Here’s our delicious Vegetarian Irish Curry recipe for 4 people, with measurements in cups and grams, along with instructions for cooking on the stove, in a crockpot, and in an instant pot:

Irish curry recipe Ingredients:

• 1 cup (200g) green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups (480ml) vegetable broth or vegetable stock
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
• (Optional 1 cup curry sauce – add if you like extra sauce)
• (Optional 1 cup guinness stout beer or vegan-friendly guinness – add if you want extra rich flavors to the hearty vegan irish stew)

How to make hearty vegan Irish stew Stovetop Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add the carrot, bell pepper, and potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.

4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.

5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Crockpot vegetable curry

How to make traditional Irish stew Crockpot Instructions:

1. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.

2. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the crockpot. Add in all the remaining ingredients (except for the garnish).

3. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Instant pot curry recipe

Instant Pot Instructions:

1. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.

2. Add in the carrot, bell pepper, and potatoes. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes.

3. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.

4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Stir well.

5. Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. Make sure the steam release valve is sealed.

6. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Vegetarian Irish Curry!

Tips and Tricks for making the best Irish curry recipe

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best Irish curry recipe:

1. Quality Spices: Invest in good-quality curry powder, as it’s a key flavor in this dish. Fresh spices can make a significant difference in taste.

2. Balance the Spices: Adjust the spice levels to your preference. If you like it milder, reduce the amount of curry powder and paprika. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder.

3. Lentil Prep: Rinse and drain your lentils thoroughly to remove any excess starch. This prevents them from becoming too mushy.

4. Sauté Aromatics: Take your time sautéing the onions and garlic. Cooking them until they’re translucent and fragrant adds depth to the flavor.

5. Layer Flavors: Sauté the spices briefly before adding the liquids. This allows the spices to bloom and release their full flavor.

6. Vegetable Size: Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Aim for bite-sized pieces.

7. Don’t Overcook: Be mindful not to overcook the lentils and vegetables, as they can turn mushy. Keep a close eye on them and test for doneness.

Extra tips

8. Tomatoes: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes instead of diced ones.

9. Consistency Control: Adjust the consistency of the curry by adding more vegetable broth if it’s too thick or simmering longer to reduce it if it’s too thin.

10. Season Gradually: Season with salt and pepper in stages. Taste as you go to avoid over-salting the dish.

11. Garnish Liberally: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley not only add a pop of color but also freshness. Don’t skimp on the garnish!

12. Make Ahead: Irish curry often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Consider making it in advance for a flavorful meal with less prep time.

13. Accompaniments: Serve Irish curry with traditional Irish soda bread, rice, or naan for a complete meal. A dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the flavors.

14. Customize Veggies: Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking. Spinach, peas, or cauliflower florets can be wonderful additions.

15. Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional ingredients like raisins for sweetness or nuts for crunch.

Remember, the beauty of cooking is that you can tailor recipes to your taste, so feel free to get creative and make this Irish curry your own masterpiece!

Delicious basic curry recipe variations

There are countless delicious variations of basic vegetarian curry recipes. Here are a few to get you started:

1. Chickpea and Spinach Curry:

• Use canned chickpeas, spinach, and tomatoes as the base.
• Spice it up with garam masala, cumin, and coriander.
• Finish with a touch of coconut milk for creaminess.

2. Paneer Tikka Masala:

• Replace the traditional curry meat with cubes of paneer (Indian cheese).
• Make a rich tomato-based sauce with cream and spices like fenugreek leaves and cardamom.

3. Vegan Coconut Curry:

• Combine coconut milk with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes.
• Use Thai curry paste or Indian curry spices for flavor.

4. Potato and Cauliflower Curry (Aloo Gobi):

• Cook potatoes and cauliflower with turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
• Finish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.

5. Butter Chickpea Curry (Chana Masala):

• Simmer chickpeas in a tomato-based sauce with butter or vegan butter.
• Add cream or coconut milk for richness and a dash of garam masala.

6. Mushroom and Pea Curry:

• Sauté mushrooms and peas with onions, garlic, and ginger.
• Spice it up with cumin, coriander, and a bit of chili powder.

7. Eggplant and Potato Curry (Baingan Aloo):

• Cook eggplant and potatoes with a blend of spices like mustard seeds, turmeric, and fenugreek.
• Finish with fresh cilantro.

8. Red Lentil Curry (Dal):

• Make a hearty lentil curry with red lentils, tomatoes, and spices like cumin, turmeric, and mustard seeds.
• Serve over rice or with naan bread.

9. Vegan Thai Green Curry:

• Create a Thai-inspired curry with green curry paste, coconut milk, and a variety of veggies like bell peppers, eggplant, and bamboo shoots.
• Add tofu or tempeh for protein.

10. Spinach and Tofu Curry:

• Combine tofu and spinach with a creamy tomato-based sauce.
• Season with a blend of spices like turmeric, cumin, and paprika.

11. Pumpkin Curry:

• Use pumpkin or butternut squash as the main ingredient.
• Simmer it in a coconut milk-based sauce with red curry paste and Thai basil.

12. Cauliflower and Lentil Curry:

• Combine cauliflower florets and red lentils with aromatic spices.
• Finish with a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist.

These are just a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity. Feel free to mix and match ingredients and spices to create your own unique and delicious vegetarian curry recipes!

How to store curry

Storing, freezing, and reheating curries properly is essential to maintain their flavor and texture. Here are some guidelines to help you do just that:

Storing Curries:

1. Refrigeration: Allow the curry to cool down to room temperature before refrigerating it. Store it in an airtight container. Curries can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

2. Labeling: Don’t forget to label the container with the date you prepared the curry. This helps you keep track of its freshness.

Freezing Curries:

1. Cool Completely: Similar to refrigeration, let the curry cool to room temperature before freezing. Hot or warm food can raise the temperature inside the freezer and affect other items.

2. Portioning: Consider dividing the curry into individual portions before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need.

3. Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers or freezer bags designed for freezing to prevent freezer burn and maintain the flavor.

4. Remove Excess Air: If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming.

5. Label and Date: Clearly label the containers with the curry type and date of freezing. This will help you identify the contents later.

6. Stackable Storage: If you’re tight on freezer space, consider freezing the curry in flat, stackable portions for efficient use of space.

Reheating Curries:

1. Thawing: For frozen curry, move it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting.

2. Stovetop: Reheat curries on the stovetop in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much during reheating.

3. Microwave: Reheat in the microwave in a microwave-safe container, using medium power and stirring every 1-2 minutes until heated through. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap to prevent splatters.

4. Instant Pot: If you’re using an Instant Pot, you can reheat curries using the “Sauté” function. Add a little water or broth to maintain the consistency.

5. Oven: For larger quantities, you can reheat curries in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C). Cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture.

6. Check Temperature: Ensure the curry reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) when reheating to kill any bacteria.

Remember that each curry recipe may have specific considerations for reheating, so always refer to the original recipe for guidance. Proper storage and reheating techniques will help you enjoy your delicious homemade curries without compromising on taste or safety.

What to eat with Vegan beef stew recipe

Irish Vegan Beef Stew or curry is a hearty and flavorful dish that pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some popular options to enjoy with your Irish curry:

1. Rice: Steamed white or brown rice is a classic choice. The neutral flavor of rice complements the spices and flavors of the curry.

2. Irish Soda Bread: A traditional choice, vegan Irish soda bread is slightly sweet and dense texture contrasts nicely with the curry’s flavors.

3. Naan Bread: Indian-style naan bread is a great option for scooping up the curry. It’s soft, chewy, and perfect for mopping up sauce.

4. Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is another excellent option for sopping up the curry’s sauce. You can even stuff it with some of the curry and enjoy it as a sandwich.

5. Flatbreads: Roti, chapati, or paratha are thinner flatbreads commonly enjoyed with curry. They’re perfect for wrapping around the curry for a satisfying bite.

6. Mashed Potatoes: Given the Irish influence, you can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes as a side dish. They provide a comforting and creamy contrast.

7. Couscous: For a North African twist, serve your Irish curry with fluffy couscous. It’s quick to prepare and makes a great base for the curry.

More delicious sides to serve with plant based beef stew

8. Quinoa: If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider quinoa. It’s high in protein and provides a nutty flavor that complements the curry.

9. Pickles and Chutneys: A side of pickles, chutneys, or relishes can add a tangy and sweet contrast to the curry’s flavors.

10. Yogurt or Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side, like raita, can help balance the heat of the curry and add a creamy element.

11. Green Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the rich curry.

12. Fried Papadums: These thin, crispy Indian lentil wafers make for a delightful crunchy side dish.

13. Sliced Cucumbers: Fresh cucumber slices with a sprinkle of salt can provide a cooling and refreshing element to your meal.

Feel free to mix and match these options based on your preferences and the flavors in your particular Irish curry. The beauty of enjoying curry is that you can tailor the sides to your taste, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Curry vs masala

“Masala” and “curry” are terms often used in the context of Indian and South Asian cuisine, but they refer to different aspects of these cuisines.

Curry:

1. Definition: “Curry” is a broad and somewhat Westernized term used to describe a wide range of dishes in Indian and South Asian cuisine. It refers to a spiced sauce or gravy that can be made with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, meat, poultry, or legumes.

2. Flavor: Curries can vary significantly in flavor, heat, and ingredients. They can be mild or very spicy, depending on the spices used. Common spices in curries include cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili, and more. The combination of spices and ingredients gives each curry its unique flavor profile.

3. Diversity: There is no single “curry” recipe, and curries can differ greatly from one region to another within India and South Asia. For example, you have dishes like Chicken Curry, Vegetable Curry, or Lamb Curry, each with its own flavor profile and ingredients.

4. Preparation: Curries can be made with a wide variety of bases, such as tomato-based, yogurt-based, coconut milk-based, or even gravy made from ground nuts. The method of preparation and ingredients used can vary widely.

Masala:

1. Definition: “Masala” is a term that refers to a mixture of spices or a spice blend. It is not a dish by itself but rather a combination of various spices ground together. “Masala” means “spice” in Hindi.

2. Flavor: Masala spice blends can have a range of flavors, from mild and aromatic to hot and pungent. They are used to season various dishes, including curries, and can be used to enhance the flavor of meats, vegetables, rice, and more.

3. Diversity: There are countless masala spice blends used in Indian cooking. Common ones include garam masala (a warming spice blend), curry powder (a Westernized spice blend), and various regional masalas like chaat masala, tandoori masala, or sambar masala.

4. Usage: Masalas are often used in cooking as a seasoning mix. They can be added to dishes during the cooking process to impart flavor. For example, garam masala might be added at the end of a dish to enhance its aroma, while curry powder is used as a primary seasoning for curry dishes.

In summary, “curry” refers to a dish or sauce with a variety of ingredients and flavors, while “masala” refers to a spice blend used to season dishes, including curries. Both are essential components of Indian and South Asian cuisine, offering a wide range of culinary possibilities and flavor profiles.

How to make curry sauce thicker

If you find your curry sauce is too thin and you want to make it thicker, there are several methods you can use. Here are some common techniques to achieve a thicker curry sauce:

1. Simmer and Reduce: The simplest way to thicken a curry sauce is to let it simmer uncovered. As the liquid evaporates, the sauce will naturally thicken. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Cornstarch Slurry: Create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water (usually 1-2 tablespoons of each for a single batch of curry). Stir the slurry into the simmering sauce and continue to cook for a few minutes until it thickens. Be sure to cook it long enough to eliminate the starchy taste.

3. Flour or Roux: Make a roux by melting butter or oil in a separate pan and stirring in an equal amount of all-purpose flour (typically 1-2 tablespoons of each for a single batch of curry). Cook the roux until it turns a light golden color. Then, gradually whisk it into the curry sauce, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Simmer the sauce until it thickens.

4. Coconut Milk or Cream: If your curry has coconut milk in it, adding a bit more coconut milk or coconut cream can thicken the sauce and enhance the flavor. Simply stir it in and let it simmer until the desired thickness is reached.

5. Yogurt or Sour Cream: For creamier curries, you can whisk yogurt or sour cream into the sauce. Make sure to whisk it in gradually and cook on low heat to avoid curdling.

More ways to thicken stew

6. Ground Nuts: Ground nuts like cashews or almonds can be blended into a paste and stirred into the sauce to both thicken and enrich it. This method is particularly popular in dishes like korma.

7. Mashed Potatoes: If you want a thickening agent that doesn’t affect the flavor, try adding a small amount of mashed potatoes to the curry. It dissolves into the sauce and thickens it without altering the taste significantly.

8. Vegetable Puree: Pureeing some of the vegetables from the curry and adding them back can naturally thicken the sauce while also increasing its flavor.

Remember that the choice of thickening method may depend on the type of curry you’re making and your dietary preferences. Be cautious when adding thickening agents, as it’s easier to add more if needed than to correct an overly thick sauce. Adjust the consistency to your liking, and enjoy your perfectly thickened curry!

FAQs

Irish Curry recipe FAQs

Curry storage:

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