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Mudgeeraba Spices

Korma and Masala – What’s the difference?

2 min read
Korma and Masala – What’s the difference?

Mudgeeraba Spices Korma and masala options are both popular types of dishes in Indian cuisine, but they can have differences in terms of ingredients, preparation methods, and flavours.

Let’s get down to a bit more nitty gritty on the subject!

Korma is typically made with a base of yoghurt, cream, or coconut milk, giving it a rich and creamy texture. The dish often includes ground nuts such as almonds or cashews, which further enhance its creaminess. Common spices include cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and coriander — all beautifully fragrant and warming.

  • The meat (chicken, lamb, or beef) or vegetables are marinated in yoghurt and spices before cooking
  • Slow simmered in the creamy sauce, allowing the flavours to meld together beautifully
  • Known for its mild to medium heat with aromatic, slightly sweet and luxurious flavour
  • Originally rooted in Mughal cuisine, Korma has been enjoyed for centuries across North India and Pakistan

Masala simply means “spice blend” in Hindi and refers to a mix of spices used across a wide variety of Indian dishes. Common blends include Garam Masala, Tandoori Masala, and Chaat Masala, typically containing cumin, coriander, turmeric, chilli powder, and fenugreek.

  • Masala can be used in both dry and wet forms. In curry dishes, a wet masala paste is often made by blending the spices with ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and ginger.
  • The masala is usually sautéed in oil or ghee to release its flavours before adding the main ingredients like meat or vegetables, this will deepen the flavours.
  • Masala dishes can range from mild to very spicy, depending on the specific blend of spices used.
  • The flavours are typically more bold, complex, and robust, with a balance of heat, acidity, and earthiness.

VERDICT

  • Korma is a creamy, mild dish often made with yoghurt, cream, or coconut milk and ground nuts, resulting in a rich, luxurious flavor.
  • Masala refers to a spice blend used in various dishes, offering a wide range of flavours from mild to very spicy and adding depth and complexity to the dish.
Korma Masala
Heat Mild–Medium 🤍 Mild to Very Spicy 🔥
Base Cream/yoghurt/coconut milk Tomato/spice paste
Flavour Sweet, creamy & rich Bold, complex & earthy
Nuts Almonds/cashews ✅ Not typically
Best for Spice beginners & families Spice lovers & adventurous eaters

Each of these dishes showcases the diversity and richness of Indian cuisine, catering to different taste preferences and culinary experiences.  There are over 37 blends to choose from in our store and these generous curry powder jars will give you more than 10kg of delicious curry.

Curry Pastes: https://flavourandspice.com.au/product-category/curry-blends/curry-paste/

Curry Powder: https://flavourandspice.com.au/product-category/curry-blends/curry-masala/

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