Mild curry powder is a versatile spice blend commonly used in Indian and South Asian cuisine. It's known for its balanced and subtle flavor profile, making it suitable for those who prefer milder, less spicy dishes. Here's a description of mild curry powder:

 

Color: Mild curry powder typically has a bright yellow or golden color, which comes primarily from the presence of turmeric in the blend. The exact shade can vary depending on the specific mix of spices.

 

Aroma: It has a fragrant and aromatic scent with earthy, slightly sweet, and warm notes. The aroma is not overpowering or pungent.

 

Flavor Profile: The flavor of mild curry powder is characterized by a gentle combination of spices. Some of the key ingredients often found in mild curry powder include:

 

Turmeric: Provides a warm, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor. It also imparts the signature yellow color.

Coriander: Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet, and nutty note.

Cumin: Contributes a warm and somewhat smoky flavor.

Fenugreek: Gives a mild, maple-like sweetness.

Ginger and Garlic: Some blends may include powdered ginger and garlic for extra depth of flavor.

Heat Level: As the name suggests, mild curry powder is not very spicy. It contains little to no chili peppers, which are responsible for heat in curry blends. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a more subtle heat or for dishes intended for a broader audience, including children.

 

Usage: Mild curry powder is versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes. It's often used to season chicken, vegetables, rice, soups, and sauces. It can also be used as a seasoning for marinades, salad dressings, and even in dips and spreads.

 

Customization: You can adjust the flavor to your liking by adding more or less of the mild curry powder to your dishes. If you want a spicier curry, you can always add extra chili powder or fresh chili peppers.

 

Mild curry powder is a pantry staple for many cooks because it adds depth of flavor and a touch of warmth to dishes without overwhelming the palate with spiciness. It's a great choice for introducing the flavors of Indian cuisine to those who may not be accustomed to very spicy foods.

Ingredients:

 

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced

2 tablespoons mild curry powder

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

1 cup coconut milk

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving

Instructions:

 

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set aside.

 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

 

Add the Spices: Stir in the mild curry powder, ground turmeric, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Cook for a minute or two to toast the spices, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

 

Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.

 

Add Tomatoes and Coconut Milk: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and coconut milk. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

 

Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the curry simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally during cooking.

 

Adjust Seasoning: Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you'd like it spicier, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes at this point.

 

Serve: Serve the mild chicken curry hot over cooked rice or with naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.

 

This mild chicken curry is a comforting and delicious dish that's perfect for those who enjoy the flavors of curry without too much heat. You can also customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to make it even more nutritious. Enjoy your homemade mild curry!