Sri Lankan Cashew Spice Curry

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €6.25 · €1.56/serving

• 2 cups whole cashews, soaked in water overnight (soaking helps soften the cashews for blending)Est. price €4.50–€7.50
• 1 tablespoon of pure coconut oilEst. price €0.15–€0.30
• 1 petite onion, finely mincedEst. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1 clove of garlic, finely diced (to release more flavor, sauté the garlic briefly before adding other ingredients)Est. price €0.05–€0.15
• 1 2 segment of ginger, peeled and finely choppedEst. price €0.20–€0.40
• 2 teaspoons of homemade or -bought unroasted Ceylonese curry powderEst. price €0.40–€0.80
• 1 teaspoon of ground turmericEst. price €0.10–€0.20
• 1 teaspoon of paprikaEst. price €0.08–€0.18
• 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, plus extra to tasteEst. price €0.02–€0.06
• 1 cup of unsweetened coconut milkEst. price €0.60–€1.20

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by draining and rinsing the cashews, then set them aside. Heat coconut oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot and cook while stirring occasionally until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.

2. 2

   In a pot, combine curry powder, turmeric, paprika, and 1¼ tsp. salt. Stir the mixture to coat the aromatics evenly. Cook until the spices are toasted and release a fragrant aroma, which should take around 2 minutes.

3. 3

   Pour 1½ cups of water into a pot, using a wooden spoon to scrape off any browned bits at the bottom. Mix in coconut milk and the cashews set aside earlier, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Lower the heat to maintain a rapid simmer and cook while stirring occasionally. Adjust the heat as necessary, until the cashews slightly soften and the liquid reduces by two thirds, which should take about 25–35 minutes. Take the pot off the heat and allow the cashew curry to rest for 10 minutes; during this time, the sauce will thicken further as it cools down. Squeeze fresh lime juice into the curry, taste it, and add more salt if required for seasoning.

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• Cultural note

  Sri Lankan Cashew Spice Curry, also known as 'Kaju Baduma', is a traditional dish from Sri Lanka that showcases the unique flavors of the region. Cashews are a popular ingredient in Sri Lankan cuisine, and this curry reflects the influence of South Asian spices and cooking techniques. It is often served with rice or…

• Seasonal note

  The Sri Lankan Cashew Spice Curry can be enjoyed year-round as the main ingredients like cashews, coconut oil, and spices are usually available throughout the year. However, fresh lime wedges may be more abundant and flavorful during the citrus season in winter.

• Health note

  This dish is rich in healthy fats from cashews and coconut oil, providing a good source of energy. It also offers a good amount of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The added spices like turmeric and ginger bring anti-inflammatory properties and potential health benefits.