Freezer Curry Cubes

Ingredients

• 2 medium tomatoes (Chopped; approximately 240 g edible weight total.)
• 2 medium onions (Peeled and chopped; approximately 220 g edible weight total.)
• 5 garlic cloves (Peeled.)
• 2 long green chilies (Chopped. Adjust the amount to taste and according to the chilies' heat.)
• 1 can tomato paste (Small can, estimated at 6 oz / 170 g.)
• 1 tbsp neutral cooking oil (Use only a small amount so the curry cubes remain versatile; the source does not specify an exact quantity.)
• 1 tsp red chili powder (Estimated amount; adjust to taste.)
• 1 tsp ground turmeric (Estimated amount; adjust to taste.)
• 1 tsp ground cumin (Estimated amount; adjust to taste.)
• 1 tsp ground coriander (Estimated amount; adjust to taste.)
• salt (To taste. No amount specified in the source.)

Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the vegetables. Chop the tomatoes and onions, peel the garlic, and chop the long green chilies. Open the tomato-paste can by removing both ends so the paste can slide out easily.

2. 2

   Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of neutral cooking oil. Keep the oil restrained so the finished cubes remain useful in a wide range of curry recipes.

3. 3

   Add the chopped tomatoes, onions, garlic, green chilies, and tomato paste to the wok. Add the red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and salt to taste.

4. 4

   Sauté the mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly, until the onions and tomatoes are completely soft and the aromatics are fragrant, about 10–15 minutes. Do not let the vegetables scorch; reduce the heat if necessary.

5. 5

   Transfer the softened mixture to a blender, or use an immersion blender in the wok if it is suitable for blending. Blend until smooth and evenly combined, taking care with the hot mixture and allowing steam to escape according to the blender manufacturer's instructions.

6. 6

   Spoon or pour the smooth curry base into freezer-safe cube trays, leaving a little room for expansion. Freeze until solid, at least 4 hours or overnight.

7. 7

   Once frozen, transfer the curry cubes to an airtight freezer bag or container if desired. Keep them frozen and use as needed as a ready-made curry base.

Notes

The source says this base can be used for more than 30 different meals. Spice quantities were not specified, so they are estimated starting points; adjust the chili, salt, and other spices to taste. Store frozen in an airtight container for best quality.

Nutrition per serving

• condiment
• curry base
• meal prep
• freezer-friendly
• South Asian
• vegetarian
• vegan
• gluten-free