Many people wonder whether the cream is necessary for making curry.
The answer is that it depends on the recipe and personal preference.
While some curries do call for cream, others do not require it at all.
It is important to note that not all curries are the same, and the use of cream can vary depending on the recipes and cultural influences.
In Nepal, cream isn’t used in our family’s curry dishes, as it is used more commonly in North Indian curries than in other regions.
The cream creates a rich and creamy texture. However, not everyone can consume dairy products, either due to lactose intolerance or dietary restrictions.
This has led to the need for substitutes for cream in curry.
In this post, we will explore some of the best substitutes for cream in curry.
You can enjoy curry without compromising flavor or texture.
Substitutes for Yogurt in Curry (7 Alternatives To Try)
Role of Cream in Curry
Cream is a popular ingredient in many curry recipes. It is often added to curries to thicken the sauce and enhance the flavor.
In this section, we will explore the different roles cream plays in curry.
Cream as a Thickener
One of the primary roles of cream in curry is to thicken the sauce.
It adds a rich, creamy texture and makes it more satisfying.Â
It also helps to balance the spiciness of the curry by adding a slightly sweet flavor.
When using cream as a thickener, it is important to add it at the right time.
Adding cream too early in the cooking process can cause it to curdle and ruin the texture of the curry.
To avoid this, it is recommended to add cream towards the end of the cooking process once the curry is fully cooked.
Cream as a Flavor Enhancer
Another role of cream in curry is to enhance the flavor. Cream adds a rich, buttery flavor to the sauce and helps to balance out the spices.
It also adds a slightly sweet flavor that can help to counteract the heat of the curry.
When using cream as a flavor enhancer, it is important to choose the right type of cream.
Heavy cream is the most commonly used type of cream in curry recipes, but it can be substituted with light cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
It is also essential to use fresh cream and not cream that has been sitting in the fridge for too long, as this can affect the flavor of the curry.
Dairy-Based Substitutes For Cream In Curry
When it comes to substituting cream in curry, dairy-based options are a popular choice. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Yogurt
Yogurt is a great substitute for cream in curry. It is tangy creamy, and adds a unique flavor to the dish.
Greek yogurt is a good option since it is thicker and creamier than regular yogurt.
To use yogurt as a substitute, simply whisk it into the curry towards the end of cooking. Be sure to use plain yogurt, as flavored varieties may alter the taste of the dish.
2. Evaporated Milk
Evaporated milk is another option for substituting cream in curry. It is made by removing the water from the milk, leaving a thick and creamy texture.
To use evaporated milk as a substitute, simply whisk it into the curry towards the end of cooking.
Be sure to use unsweetened evaporated milk, as sweetened varieties may alter the taste of the dish.
Overall, dairy-based substitutes can be a great option for those looking to reduce their use of cream in curry.
Each option offers a unique taste and texture to the dish, allowing for a variety of flavor combinations.
Non-Dairy Substitutes For Cream In Curry
When it comes to making curry, cream is often used to give the dish a rich and creamy texture. However, for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, cream may not be an option.
Luckily, several non-dairy substitutes can be used instead.
3. Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is a popular substitute for cream in curry. It has a creamy and rich texture that is similar to cream, and it also adds a subtle coconut flavor to the dish.Â
It can be easily found in most grocery stores and is available in canned or carton form.
When using coconut milk in curry, it is important to shake the can or carton well before opening it to ensure that the milk is well mixed.
4. Almond Milk
Another non-dairy substitute for cream in curry is almond milk. While almond milk is not as thick as cream or coconut milk, it can still add a creamy texture to the dish.
Almond milk has a nutty flavor that can complement the spices in curry.
You can easily find it in most grocery stores, and it is available in sweetened or unsweetened varieties.
When using almond milk in curry, it is important to choose the unsweetened variety to avoid adding unnecessary sweetness to the dish.
5. Cashew Cream
Cashew cream is a homemade non-dairy substitute that can be used in curry.
Whether you’re looking for a store-bought solution or prefer to make it yourself, cashew cream is a versatile, non-dairy option for curries.Â
Nothing beats the freshness and value of making your cashew cream at home, though.
It’s simple – soak raw cashews for a few hours, drain, then blend with a bit of water.
Within minutes, you’ll be rewarded with a thick, velvety cream perfect for curries.
The resulting mixture is a creamy and thick liquid that can be used in place of cream in curry. Cashew cream has a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the spices in the dish.
Overall, there are several non-dairy substitutes for cream in curry that can be used to create a rich and creamy texture.
Healthier Substitutes
6. Tofu
Tofu is a great substitute for cream in curry because it has a similar texture and can add creaminess without the added fat.Â
It’s also a good source of protein and can help make the dish more filling.
To use tofu in curry, simply blend it in a blender until smooth and creamy. You can also use silken tofu, which is already smooth and creamy, and add it to the curry.
7. Cauliflower Puree
Another substitute for cream in curry is cauliflower puree.
To make cauliflower puree, steam or boil cauliflower until it’s soft, then blend it in a food processor until it’s smooth and creamy. You can also add spices like turmeric and cumin to give it more flavor.
The resulting puree has a surprisingly creamy, smooth texture that mimics dairy cream beautifully.
When stirred into the curry sauce, cauliflower puree enriches the dish without weighing it down.
Using healthier substitutes like tofu and cauliflower puree can help make your curry dish more nutritious and lower in calories and fat.
Curry Recipes Without Cream
Here are some delicious curry recipes you can make without using cream:
Other Substitutes In Curry
Here are some posts worth reading on substitutes for red chili powder, yogurt, tomato, and rice in curry:
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not to add cream to a curry dish depends on personal preference and the recipe being used.
Cream can add richness and creaminess to the sauce, but it is not always necessary. There are many alternative ways to thicken a curry sauce, dairy-free and dairy alternatives.
It is important to experiment with different recipes and methods to find what works best for you. I hope these seven substitutes for cream in curry help you create flavorful curries without dairy.
With the many alternative ways to thicken a curry sauce, the cream is not always necessary, but it can add a delicious touch to the dish.
