A flavorful and aromatic curry paste used in the traditional Indian dish Rogan Josh.

Ingredients
Whole Spices
- 1tbspcumin seeds
- 1tbspcoriander seeds
- 1tbspfennel seeds
- 4piecegreen cardamom pods
- 1piececinnamon stick
- 6piececurry leaves
Other Ingredients
- 1tbspKashmiri chilli powder
- 4piecered chillies (chopped)
- 1tbsppaprika powder
- 1cuponion (finely chopped)
- 1tbspgarlic (minced)
- 2tbspginger (minced)
- 1tspturmeric powder
- 1tbspgaram masala
- 1canchopped tomatoes
- 2tbspvegetable oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
How to make Rogan Josh Curry Paste
Prepare Whole Spices
Heat a pan to medium heat, add all the whole spices to roast until you smell the aroma. Remove them from the pan.
Place the roasted spices into a blender and grind until you get a fine powder.
Cook the Paste
Heat the pan again and add the vegetable oil, then add the onions and curry leaves. Sauté until onions are golden brown.
Add the ground spices, chilli powder, turmeric, and paprika. Sauté for about 1 minute, then add a little water to prevent the spices from burning.
Cook the spices for about 5 minutes, adding a little water as needed.
Add the tomatoes, fresh chilli, garlic, and ginger. Mix well, then turn the heat down to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Add your curry paste back in the blender and blend until you get a smooth paste.
Tips & Tricks
Roasting the whole spices enhances their flavor, so don't skip this step.
Adjust the amount of red chillies and chilli powder based on your spice preference.
FAQS
How can I make Rogan Josh curry paste vegan or vegetarian?
To make Rogan Josh curry paste vegan or vegetarian, simply ensure that all ingredients are plant-based. The recipe already uses vegetable oil, and you can substitute any meat-based components with vegetables or legumes. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and aromatic curry that fits your dietary preferences.
What are some good substitutions for ingredients in Rogan Josh curry paste?
If you don't have certain spices on hand, you can substitute cumin seeds with ground cumin, coriander seeds with ground coriander, and Kashmiri chili powder with regular chili powder or paprika for a milder flavor. Just remember that these substitutions may slightly alter the flavor profile of your Rogan Josh curry paste.
How should I store leftover Rogan Josh curry paste?
To store leftover Rogan Josh curry paste, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the paste in ice cube trays and transfer the frozen cubes to a zip-top bag, allowing you to use small portions as needed in future recipes.
What dishes pair well with Rogan Josh curry paste?
Rogan Josh curry paste pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber raita or a simple salad to balance the rich flavors of the curry. These pairings enhance the overall dining experience and complement the aromatic spices.
What is the cooking process for making Rogan Josh using this curry paste?
To make Rogan Josh using this curry paste, first, sauté your choice of meat or vegetables in a pan. Then, add the prepared curry paste and cook for a few minutes. Next, add water or broth to achieve your desired consistency and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.
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Anna Middleton
(@chefanna)
I have been a professional South African chef for 18 years, now teaching kids & adults how to cook by using their instincts. I am self-taught and have an extreme passion for various international cuisines. I have fallen in love with teaching others the skills that I have learnt, inspiring them through creative cooking. I have been a professional South African chef for 18 years, now teaching kids & adults how to cook by using their instincts. I...
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