What are low-ingredient budget curry ideas for quick prep?

Question

What are some low-ingredient budget curry ideas for quick prep? Get a list of simple gravies you can make with minimal, cost-effective ingredients.

Answer 1

Budget-friendly curries with few ingredients include chickpea curry (chana masala), lentil curry (dal), and potato curry (aloo curry). These use pantry staples and are quick to prepare.

Detailed Explanation:

Creating delicious and affordable curries doesn't require a long list of ingredients. Here's a breakdown of three easy options:

1. Chickpea Curry (Chana Masala): This curry relies on canned chickpeas, diced tomatoes (canned or fresh), onion, garlic, ginger, and basic spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Simply sauté the aromatics, add the spices, tomatoes, and chickpeas, then simmer until the flavors meld.

2. Lentil Curry (Dal): Red lentils (masoor dal) are perfect for a quick dal. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger, then add the lentils, water or broth, turmeric, and cumin. Simmer until the lentils are soft and creamy. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.

3. Potato Curry (Aloo Curry): Potatoes are incredibly versatile and budget-friendly. Boil or cube and roast potatoes. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger, then add spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Add the potatoes and a little water or broth, and simmer until the potatoes are coated in the flavorful sauce.

All of these curries can be served with rice, roti, or naan bread. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

Pro Tip:

To save even more time, use pre-made spice blends or curry pastes. Just be sure to check the ingredient list to avoid any unwanted additives or excessive sodium. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.