Kaju Curry, also known as Kaju Masala, is a rich and creamy dish made primarily with cashew nuts. This delightful curry is a staple in Indian cuisine, celebrated for its luxurious texture and nutty flavor. It is perfect for festive occasions and special dinners, often served with naan, roti, or rice. The combination of roasted cashews with a blend of spices creates a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and indulgent.

Ingredients for Kaju Curry

To prepare Kaju Curry, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup raw cashews (unsalted and unroasted)
  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, pureed or chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 green chili, slit (optional for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 green cardamom pods
  • 1 black cardamom pod
  • 4-5 black peppercorns
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ cup yogurt, whisked
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option)
  • 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Soaking the Cashews

  1. Begin by soaking the cashews in hot water for about 15–20 minutes. This softens them, making it easier to blend into a smooth paste.

Step 2: Preparing the Cashew Paste

  1. Drain the soaked cashews and blend them into a creamy paste using a little water if necessary. Set aside.

Step 3: Cooking the Curry Base

  1. In a large pan or kadhai, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
  2. Add cumin seeds, green cardamom pods, black cardamom pod, black peppercorns, and bay leaf. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chili; cook for another 2–3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Step 4: Adding Tomatoes and Spices

  1. Add the pureed or chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
  2. Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporating Cashew Paste

  1. Lower the heat and add the cashew paste to the tomato-onion mixture. Mix well.
  2. Gradually add water to adjust the consistency of the curry as desired.
  3. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

  1. Stir in whisked yogurt and heavy cream; mix well until combined.
  2. Add garam masala and kasuri methi; stir again.
  3. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 7: Garnishing and Serving

  1. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
  2. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Variations of Kaju Curry

While traditional Kaju Curry is delicious as is, you can try several variations:

Kaju Butter Masala

Enhance the richness by adding more butter or cream for a buttery flavor profile.

Vegan Kaju Curry

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream to make it vegan-friendly.

Mixed Vegetable Kaju Curry

Add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or carrots along with cashews for added nutrition and texture.

Nutritional Benefits of Kaju Curry

Kaju Curry not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers several health benefits:

  • Rich in Healthy Fats: Cashews are high in monounsaturated fats which are beneficial for heart health.
  • Protein Source: Cashews provide a good amount of protein essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: This dish is rich in vitamins such as E, K, and B6 as well as minerals like magnesium and zinc.

Tips for Perfect Kaju Curry

  1. Quality Cashews: Use high-quality raw cashews for better flavor and texture.
  2. Soaking Time: Ensure you soak cashews long enough to achieve a smooth paste.
  3. Adjust Spice Levels: Modify spice levels according to your preference; use less chili if you prefer milder flavors.
  4. Simmering Time: Allow sufficient simmering time after adding yogurt and cream to enhance flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Kaju Curry pairs beautifully with:

  • Naan or Tandoori Roti
  • Steamed Basmati Rice or Jeera Rice
  • Vegetable Pulao or Biryani

 

FAQs

What is Kaju Masala?

Kaju Masala, also known as Kaju Curry, is a beloved Indian curry. It features cashews bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and an intricate blend of aromatic spices. It’s a vegetarian favorite, known for its mild, slightly sweet flavor profile and its wonderfully rich texture.

What kind of cashews are best for Kaju Masala?

For the best results, reach for raw, unsalted, and unroasted whole cashews. You might also see recipes that call for cashew pieces. Soaking the cashews in hot water for about 15-20 minutes before using them is a great tip – it softens them, making them easier to blend into a smooth paste.

Can I adapt the recipe to be vegan?

Absolutely! You can easily create a delicious vegan Kaju Masala. Simply swap out the ghee for a plant-based oil, and replace the heavy cream and yogurt with vegan alternatives, such as cashew cream, coconut cream, or plant-based yogurt.

What are the must-have spices for Kaju Masala?

The essential spice rack for Kaju Masala includes: cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder (for a touch of heat), coriander powder, and garam masala (for that warm, aromatic finish). Some recipes will also call for fennel powder, Kashmiri red chili powder (primarily for its vibrant color), and dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) to add another layer of depth. Whole spices like cinnamon, cloves, bay leaf, star anise, black cardamom, and peppercorns are often used to infuse flavor into the oil at the start.

What’s the secret to a truly rich and creamy gravy?

Achieving that luxurious gravy texture comes down to a few key techniques. A combination of cashew paste, yogurt, and cream is essential. Also, be sure to thoroughly cook the tomato puree until the moisture evaporates and it starts to release its oil. This step concentrates the tomato flavor and contributes to the richness of the sauce.

Can I add other vegetables to the curry?

Yes, you can customize Kaju Masala with other ingredients. Paneer (Indian cheese) is a popular and delicious addition. You can also add vegetables like peas or bell peppers to create your own unique variation.

How spicy is Kaju Masala supposed to be?

Kaju Masala is typically a mild curry. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder or green chilies used in the recipe.

What’s the best way to serve Kaju Masala?

Kaju Masala is traditionally served with Indian breads such as roti, naan, or paratha. It also pairs beautifully with rice dishes like jeera rice (cumin rice) or pulao.

How should I store leftovers?

Allow the Kaju Masala to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and storing it in the refrigerator. It will keep for 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Is it possible to freeze Kaju Masala?

Freezing Kaju Masala isn’t generally recommended. The cream and yogurt-based gravy can sometimes change texture and become grainy upon thawing.

How do I make tomato puree?

You can use fresh tomatoes, boiled onion paste, ginger, and green chilies. Add roughly chopped tomatoes and ½ cup water in the same pan.

 

Conclusion

Kaju Masala, with its creamy texture, nutty cashews, and aromatic spices, is a truly satisfying and elegant vegetarian dish. Its versatility allows you to adjust the spice level and add other vegetables to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it to impress guests or enjoying it as a comforting weeknight meal, Kaju Masala is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic Indian curry!