🍛 Classic Indian Curry Base

Your essential prep for countless Indian dishes — from rich paneer curries to spicy chicken masalas.

🧅 Ingredients:
2 tbsp oil or ghee

2 large onions, finely chopped

1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

3 medium tomatoes, finely chopped or pureed

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp red chilli powder (adjust to taste)

1 tsp coriander powder

1/2 tsp cumin powder

Salt to taste

Water, as needed

Optional: 1/2 tsp garam masala for extra warmth
Optional: 1 tbsp cashew paste or cream for a richer base

👩🍳 Instructions:
🔥 Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan.

Add finely chopped onions and a pinch of salt.

Sauté on medium heat until golden brown. This can take 10–15 minutes — don’t rush, as caramelized onions are the flavor foundation.

🧄 Step 2: Add Aromatics
Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell disappears (2–3 minutes).

🍅 Step 3: Add Tomatoes & Spices
Add tomatoes (or puree) and cook until oil starts separating from the masala.

Add turmeric, chilli powder, coriander, and cumin powder. Mix well.

💧 Step 4: Cook & Cool
Add a little water if it starts sticking. Cook until the mixture thickens and turns glossy.

🧊 To Store:
Cool completely.

Store in an airtight container:

Refrigerator: Up to 1 week

Freezer: Up to 1 month (use ice cube trays for portioning)

🍽️ Use This Base For:
Paneer Butter Masala

Chicken Curry

Vegetable Korma

Egg Curry

Chana Masala

Koftas & more!

🌟 Welza Tip:
Use Welza’s Ginger-Garlic Paste, Turmeric, Coriander, and Cumin Powders to get the perfect balance of earthy depth and aromatic punch every time.