My Indian Base Gravy Recipe
Ingredients:
2 large onions, finely chopped
4 tomatoes, pureed
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon garam masala powder
1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons cooking oil
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for another minute.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Mix well and cook for a minute to let the spices release their flavors.
- Pour in the tomato puree and stir everything together.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the raw smell of the tomatoes disappears and the oil separates from the mixture.
- Add salt to taste and mix well.
- At this stage, you have the base gravy ready. You can use it as a base for various Indian curries or freeze it for later use.
- If using the gravy immediately, add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency and bring it to a boil. You can adjust the thickness according to your preference.
- Sprinkle garam masala powder and give it a final stir.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve the base gravy with your choice of vegetables, meat, or lentils.
Note:
The base gravy recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for a longer period. You can customize the spices and adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences.