Paleo Classic Curry Sauce

Total time50 min

Prep time15 min

Cook time35 min

This deeply spiced curry base starts with sizzled cumin seeds and slow-cooked onion, cooked down until deep golden and sweet on its own. Fresh garlic and ginger get bloomed right in the pot, then a warm blend of coriander, cumin, turmeric, garam masala, and Kashmiri chili powder toasts into the mixture until fragrant. Crushed tomatoes simmer everything down into a thick, glossy base, and a pour of full-fat coconut milk finishes it with rich, silky body. Blend it smooth or leave it rustic — either way, it's a flexible base ready for whatever protein or vegetables you're building the meal around. Finished with a scatter of fresh cilantro, it's a solid, flavor-packed sauce to keep on hand for a Paleo kitchen.

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Ingredients

4 servings

2 tbsp neutral oil (such as canola oil or vegetable oil)
Chosen Foods 100% Pure Avocado Oil, 16.9 fl oz La Tourangelle Avocado Oil Spectrum Naturals Avocado Oil La Tourangelle Avocado Oil Artisan Delicate - 8.45 Fl. Oz.Olivado Avocado Oil Extra Virgin - 8.45 Fl. Oz.
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Chef's tip
Avocado oil is neutral and handles high heat, making it a good all-purpose swap.
Chef's tip
Avocado oil is neutral and handles high heat, making it a good all-purpose swap.
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp garam masala
½ tsp kashmiri chili powder or mild paprika
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
1 tsp sugar
Chef's tip
Use the same amount. Coconut sugar has a mild caramel flavor, and baked goods come out a little darker and slightly less sweet.

For serving

1–2 tbsp fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)

Instructions

1
Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the cumin seeds and cook, stirring, until they sizzle and turn a shade darker, about 30 seconds — watch closely, as they can burn quickly.
2
Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and deep golden, 12–15 minutes.

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