Indian curry base

The Indian curry base, often called a 'masala' or 'gravy base,' is the foundational sauce for countless Indian curries, typically made by sautéing onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a blend of ground spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander. It originates from the Indian subcontinent and serves as the starting point for dishes like chicken tikka masala or vegetable korma. This versatile mixture is usually cooked down into a thick, aromatic paste before other ingredients are added.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

A typical serving (about 1/2 cup) is moderate in calories (around 80-120 kcal), with most energy coming from carbohydrates in the onions and tomatoes, and some fat from cooking oil. It provides key nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants from the tomatoes and spices, along with anti-inflammatory compounds from turmeric and ginger.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	180 kcal
Protein	4.5 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	8 g
Sodium	650 mg
Potassium	400 mg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin A	120 µg RAE
Iron	2.5 mg
Calcium	60 mg
Magnesium	40 mg
Folate	50 µg
Manganese	0.5 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, this base is the heart of Indian home cooking, with families often having their own secret spice ratios passed down through generations. Nutritionally, the combination of spices like turmeric (containing curcumin) and black pepper is known to enhance the absorption of beneficial compounds, making it a flavorful way to boost nutrient uptake.