Shellfish Free Curry Powder
Making your own curry powder from scratch is one of those kitchen moves that instantly upgrades everything it touches. The process starts with whole seeds — coriander, cumin, black peppercorns, mustard, and fenugreek — toasted in a dry skillet until they turn fragrant and deepen in color, unlocking layers of flavor you simply can't get from a dusty store-bought tin. Once cooled and ground, they're blended with turmeric, ginger, cayenne, cinnamon, and cardamom into a warm, complex powder that smells absolutely incredible. Store-bought blends can be a minefield when you're avoiding shellfish, since some commercial spice mixes and seasoning packets sneak in unexpected additives or are processed on shared lines — making a homemade batch the cleanest, most reliable option. Every ingredient here is a pure, plant-based spice with nothing hidden. Stash it in an airtight jar and you'll have a bold, aromatic blend ready to season soups, stews, roasted vegetables, and rice dishes for up to three months.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
16 servings
- 2 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tsp yellow mustard seeds
- ½ tsp fenugreek seeds
- 2 tbsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cardamom
Instructions
- 1
Add the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and fenugreek seeds to a small dry skillet over medium heat. Toast, stirring constantly, until the seeds are fragrant and the coriander and cumin turn a shade darker, about 2–3 minutes. Watch closely, as the seeds can scorch quickly.
- 2
Transfer the toasted seeds to a plate and let them cool for 5 minutes, until no longer steaming.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!