Curry Flavor Journey
Nolan O'Connor
| 21-07-2025
· Cate team
From golden yellow to fiery red, Indian curry is a feast not just for the taste buds, but for the eyes and soul. Have you ever wondered how many different types of curry there are in India, or what makes each one special?
Today, we're going on a flavorful journey together to discover the most popular and beloved types of Indian curry—and maybe even find your new favorite along the way!

Yellow Curry: Mild, Creamy, Comforting

Let's start with one of the gentlest flavors—Yellow Curry. This curry gets its cheerful color from turmeric, and its taste is mellow and slightly sweet. It's often made with coconut milk, cumin, coriander, and sometimes potatoes or chickpeas. The result? A rich, creamy curry that's especially popular among those who prefer less spicy food. In India, it's commonly served with vegetables or chicken and a side of fluffy basmati rice. We love how it brings comfort with every bite!

Masala Curry: The Heart of Indian Flavor

Masala means "spice blend" in Hindi, and Masala Curry is the soul of Indian cooking. The most famous version is Chicken Tikka Masala, where grilled chicken is simmered in a tomato-based sauce rich with garam masala, ginger, garlic, and cream. What makes this curry stand out is its bold, balanced flavor—it's spicy, tangy, and slightly smoky. Whether you eat it with naan or rice, it's a celebration of taste. We can't help but go back for seconds!

Korma: Mild Yet Rich

If you're in the mood for something elegant and less fiery, Korma is the way to go. This North Indian curry is often made with yogurt, nuts like almonds or cashews, and aromatic spices. It's usually paired with chicken or lamb, creating a creamy, slightly sweet dish with subtle layers of flavor. We appreciate korma for its royal feel—it's said to be a dish once served in the Mughal courts!

Vindaloo: For the Heat Lovers

Now let's turn up the heat! Vindaloo is originally from Goa and influenced by Portuguese cooking. It's famous for its fiery taste and bold spices. Typically made with vinegar, garlic, and red chilies, Vindaloo can be made with meat, chicken, or even vegetables. We love the way it challenges our taste buds—it's not just hot, it's full of depth and tang. Definitely a choice for the brave!

Saag Curry: Green, Earthy, Healthy

Not all curries are red or yellow—Saag Curry is green and packed with nutrients. "Saag" refers to leafy greens, often spinach or mustard greens, cooked with spices and sometimes paneer (Indian cheese) or meat. It's creamy without being heavy, and it's a favorite in Punjab and northern regions. We like to enjoy it with warm roti or paratha. It's both tasty and nourishing.

Rogan Josh: Aromatic and Deep

Rogan Josh is a slow-cooked curry from Kashmir known for its bold red color and rich aroma. Traditionally made with tender lamb, it's flavored with cardamom, cloves, and Kashmiri chili—not too hot, but deeply flavorful. We admire this curry for its balance between spice and warmth. It's a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

Chana Masala: A Vegetarian Favorite

Vegetarians, this one's for us! Chana Masala is made with chickpeas simmered in a tangy, spicy tomato-based sauce. It's high in protein, easy to make, and bursting with flavor. Commonly eaten as street food or at home, this curry goes perfectly with rice or flatbreads like puri or chapati. We find it to be one of the most satisfying plant-based dishes in Indian cuisine.

Madras Curry: Spicy and Tangy

Named after the city of Chennai (formerly Madras), Madras Curry is bold, spicy, and full of character. It often contains tamarind, adding a sour note to the heat. With layers of garlic, onion, and roasted spices, it's a flavor explosion we enjoy when we're craving something punchy. It's especially popular in South Indian and even British-Indian cooking.

How to Enjoy Them All?

With so many types of curry, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But the best part is that there's no wrong way to enjoy them! Whether we dip naan into creamy masala, pour saag over rice, or scoop up chana masala with our fingers, each bite tells a story. We suggest starting mild and gradually exploring the spicier varieties. Don't forget a cool side like yogurt or cucumber salad to balance the heat!

Let's Cook, Taste, and Explore!

Indian curry isn't just food—it's tradition, culture, and creativity on a plate. We hope this guide helped you discover something new or sparked your curiosity to try different curries at home or your local restaurant. So, what's the next curry on your must-try list? Let's keep exploring, one flavorful dish at a time!
Feel free to share your favorite curry or your first spicy curry experience—we'd love to hear from you!