Culinary Experts Share Tips for Perfect Curries

Curry experts emphasize the importance of using fresh spices, with Sri Lankan chef Peter Kuruvita recommending buying small quantities and storing them properly to maintain flavor intensity. Both Kuruvita and Japanese cooking expert Yumiko Kozumi encourage cooks to explore a wide variety of curries beyond popular choices like chicken and lamb, highlighting that curries can feature anything from fish to lentils. Kozumi advises dry-frying spices and using ingredients like cashew nuts or sesame to enrich the dish, while also stressing the benefits of cooking chicken on the bone for deeper flavor. Regional Indian fish curries, such as Chettinad, Malvani, Goan, and Mangalorean styles, each offer unique combinations of spices, coconut, and tangy elements like tamarind or mango, providing an array of flavor profiles for seafood lovers. Proper preparation techniques, such as careful sautéing of spices and onions and gentle cooking of fish, are vital for achieving tender textures and balanced flavors. Adding multiple curries and condiments like sambol or raita can elevate the meal into a more authentic, flavorful experience.