How to make chip shop curry sauce
Do you love that classic chip shop curry sauce but don’t know how to make it at home? Look no further! In this recipe, we will show you how to recreate that deliciously smooth and creamy curry sauce that you can pour over your favorite meals.
Chip shop curry sauce is a popular condiment in the United Kingdom, often enjoyed with fish and chips or drizzled over a warm, buttery jacket potato. The rich and flavorful sauce takes your taste buds on a culinary journey with its subtle blend of spices and smooth texture.
To make chip shop curry sauce, you will need a few basic ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of curry powder
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 300ml of chicken or vegetable stock
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
The key ingredients and their importance
Chip shop curry sauce requires a combination of ingredients to achieve its delicious taste and smooth consistency. Some of the key ingredients are:
Onions
Onions serve as the base for the curry sauce. They provide a savory flavor and help to create a rich and aromatic sauce.
Curry powder
Curry powder is the essential spice blend that gives chip shop curry sauce its distinctive flavor. It combines various spices, such as turmeric, coriander, cumin, and fenugreek, to create a fragrant and slightly spicy taste.
Flour
Flour acts as a thickening agent in the curry sauce. It helps to give the sauce its smooth and velvety texture.
Butter or oil
Butter or oil is used to sauté the onions and create the base of the sauce. It adds richness and depth of flavor to the curry sauce.
Stock
Stock, whether vegetable or chicken, provides the liquid component of the curry sauce. It helps to create a flavorful and well-balanced sauce.
Sugar
A small amount of sugar is often added to chip shop curry sauce to balance out the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
The step-by-step process of making curry sauce
Curry sauce is a delicious accompaniment to many dishes, and making it from scratch is a great way to customize the flavors to your liking. Follow this step-by-step process to make a flavorful and aromatic curry sauce at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons of curry powder
- 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 400ml of vegetable stock
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan and add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, and sugar. Add this spice mixture to the saucepan and cook for a few seconds to toast the spices.
Step 4: Gradually add the vegetable stock to the saucepan, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, mix the flour with a small amount of water to form a smooth paste. Gradually add this paste to the saucepan, stirring continuously to thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more vegetable stock or water.
Step 7: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the curry sauce cool slightly before serving.
Tip: You can add additional ingredients such as chopped tomatoes, coconut milk, or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor of your curry sauce.
Tips to enhance the flavor of your curry sauce
Making a delicious curry sauce is all about balancing flavors and adding depth to your dish. Here are some tips to enhance the flavor of your chip shop curry sauce:
1. Use quality spices
The key to a flavorful curry sauce is using fresh, aromatic spices. Invest in high-quality curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Toasting the spices before adding them to the sauce can also enhance their flavors.
2. Add cooked onions
Sautéed onions add a sweet and savory flavor to your curry sauce. Cook them until they are soft and translucent before blending them with the other ingredients to create a smooth texture.
3. Include garlic and ginger
Garlic and ginger add a punch of flavor to your curry sauce. Finely chop or grate them and cook them in oil before adding the other ingredients. This will release their aroma and infuse the sauce with their taste.
4. Use chicken or vegetable stock
Adding stock instead of water can elevate the taste of your curry sauce. Use chicken or vegetable stock to enhance the overall flavor profile and add a rich savory element.
5. Incorporate coconut milk
For a creamy and slightly sweet curry sauce, consider adding coconut milk. It adds a great depth of flavour to your curry sauce and pairs well with the spices.
6. Allow the sauce to simmer
Simmering the curry sauce allows the flavors to meld and develop. Let it cook on low heat for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the desired consistency and flavor depth are achieved.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Curry powder | 2 tablespoons |
Turmeric | 1 teaspoon |
Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
Chili powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Onion | 1, sautéed |
Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
Ginger | 1 teaspoon, minced |
Chicken or vegetable stock | 1 cup |
Coconut milk | 1/2 cup |
By following these tips, you can elevate the flavor of your chip shop curry sauce and create a delicious and authentic dish that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Serving suggestions and accompaniments
Once you have made your delicious chip shop curry sauce, there are several ways to serve it and accompanying dishes that pair well with it:
– For a classic British chip shop experience, serve the curry sauce over a plate of hot, crispy french fries or thick-cut chips.
– If you prefer a healthier option, consider serving the curry sauce with steamed vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots. This adds a flavorful twist to your regular veggie side dish.
– Another popular way to enjoy chip shop curry sauce is by pouring it over a jacket potato. Simply bake a potato until it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, then cut a slit down the center and pour the curry sauce in.
– For a unique and indulgent take, serve the curry sauce alongside fried chicken or fish. The rich and creamy curry flavor pairs exceptionally well with the crispiness of the fried coating.
– Finally, you can also use chip shop curry sauce as a dip for snacks such as breaded mushrooms, chicken nuggets, or onion rings. Its savory and aromatic taste will elevate any appetizer.
Experiment with these serving suggestions and accompaniments to discover your favorite way to enjoy chip shop curry sauce. Whether you prefer a classic chip shop meal or a healthier twist, this versatile sauce is sure to complement any dish.