Curry Roux Blend

Name: Curry Roux Blend
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 to 6
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 tbsp turmeric; 1 tbsp coriander; 1 tbsp cumin; 1 tsp garam; 1 tsp fine sea salt

25 minutes prep 45 minutes cook Serves 4 to 6 vegan

Curry Roux Blend is the cornerstone of Japanese home-style curry, crafted with care and instinct in kitchens across Japan. Unlike its commercial counterparts, this version captures the essence of family cooking, where salt is measured by the pinch and fat is embraced to enrich and bind. The roux is an invitation to gather around the table, a staple for casual dinners that call for warmth and ease.

The blend offers a comforting harmony of turmeric's earthy warmth, coriander's citrusy brightness, and cumin's nutty depth, all lifted by a hint of garam masala. Each spoonful coats the palate with a savory richness that speaks of home. Serve it generously over steamed rice or alongside pickled vegetables for a meal that satisfies both body and spirit.

Ingredients

2 tbspturmeric
1 tbspcoriander
1 tbspcumin
1 tspgaram
1 tspfine sea salt

Method

Place a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of turmeric, 1 tablespoon of coriander, and 1 tablespoon of cumin to the skillet. Toast the spices, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until they release a warm, nutty aroma and the color deepens slightly. This should take a few minutes, but rely on the smell and color change to guide you.
Once the spices are toasted, transfer them immediately to a cool plate or bowl to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool completely before proceeding to the next step. This cooling step is crucial to prevent the spices from becoming bitter when ground.
Once cooled, use a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle to grind the toasted spices into a fine powder. If using a mortar and pestle, apply firm, even pressure and grind in a circular motion until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Transfer the ground spices to a mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of garam masala and 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt to the bowl. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the salt and garam masala are evenly distributed throughout the blend.
Store the Curry Roux Blend in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dark place to preserve its flavor and potency. Proper storage will ensure the blend remains fresh and aromatic for your next curry dish.