A simple Malaysian Meat Curry Powder that adds loads of flavour to your favourite curries. Try it with homemade Tandoori chicken, or curried sausages and all your favourite Asian curries.
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A labelled jar of Malaysian Meat Curry Powder.

What is Meat Curry Powder?

Malaysian curry powder is a blend of spices commonly used in Malaysian cuisine to impart rich and aromatic flavors to various dishes, particularly curries. While there isn’t a standardized recipe, Malay curry powder typically includes a mix of spices that contribute to the unique taste profile of Malaysian curries.

This recipe is a very simple homemade copycat of the famous Babas Meat Curry Powder.

What You Will Love about this Recipe

  • QUICK & EASY – it is so easy to make curry powder. You will likely have all the ingredients in your pantry right now.
  • HEALTHY – this keto curry powder recipe has no fillers and is sugar-free. It is also gluten-free, grain-free and dairy-free.
  • VERSATILITY – Whether you’re marinating meats, preparing a rich curry, or seasoning grilled dishes, Malaysian curry powder proves incredibly versatile. Its balanced combination of spices adds depth and complexity to various recipes, allowing you to explore the vast world of Malaysian-inspired cuisine.
Malaysian Meat Curry Powder ingredients laid out and labelled.

Malaysian Meat Curry Powder Ingredients

  • Coriander seeds: Add a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor, contributing to the aromatic complexity of the curry powder. You can use whole spices or ground spices, depending on what you have available.
  • Cumin Seeds: Bring a warm and earthy taste, enhancing the depth of flavor in Malaysian curry dishes.
  • Fennel Seeds: Impart a hint of sweetness and a mild licorice flavor, contributing to the unique taste profile of the curry powder.
  • Cardamom Pods: Offer a floral and citrusy note, adding a layer of complexity to the spice blend. I use green cardamom pods.
  • Cloves: Contribute a warm, sweet, and slightly peppery taste, providing depth and richness to the overall flavor.
  • Star Anise: Bring a licorice-like flavor, enhancing the aromatic profile and providing a subtle sweetness.
  • Dried Red Chilies: Add heat and a vibrant red color, crucial for the spiciness of the curry powder.
  • White Peppercorns or White Pepper: Provide a milder heat compared to black pepper, ensuring a balanced spiciness.
  • Ground Turmeric: Impart a warm, slightly bitter taste, as well as a vibrant yellow color characteristic of many Malaysian curries.

JUMP TO the recipe card for all instructions and ingredients to make this epic copycat Babas Curry Powder.

How to Make Malaysian Curry Powder

Spices in a skillet with some spices in small bowls.

Step 1. Lightly toast whole cloves, cardamom, black and white peppercorns, cinnamon quill, star anise, bay leaf, and chillies, over medium heat until fragrant. Remove and reserve. Fry coriander seeds until fragrant and add to other spices. Add remaining ingredients and cook until fragrant.

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Ground curry powder in a mortar and pestle.

Step 2. Blend all spices in a blender or grind with a mortar and pestle.

Cooking Tips: 

  • Versatile Meat Enhancer: Use this homemade curry powder to marinate meats, infuse gravies, or as a flavorful rub for grilling.
  • Experiment with Heat: Adjust the quantity of dried red chilies based on your spice tolerance, tailoring the curry powder to suit your preferred level of heat.

Recipes to Use Malaysian Meat Curry Powder

The Malaysian meat curry powder can be used in loads of curry recipes. Recipes like Murgh Tikka Masala, Panang Curry Chicken, Chiang Mai Curry Chicken, or even a simple old-fashioned curry mince.

FAQs

What is the difference between Indian and Malaysian curry powder?

Malaysian curry powder seamlessly fuses the rich flavors of Malay, Indian, and Chinese traditions. Distinguished by its lighter consistency compared to traditional Indian curries, this unique blend consistently incorporates a subtle citrusy note, paying homage to the vibrant flavors found in Malay cuisine.

What are Babas Meat Curry Powder ingredients?

The ingredients are: Coriander, Chilli, Cumin, Fennel, Turmeric, White Pepper, Cinnamon, Black Pepper, Cardamom, Star Anise, Nutmeg, Bay Leaf, Clove. This recipe is based on Babas meat curry powder ingredients.

Next Recipes To Try

More homemade spice blend recipes for you to make and love! Want even more grab a copy of our keto seasonings eBook Rubadubdub.

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Malaysian Meat Curry Powder ingredients up close in a frying pan.

Malaysian Meat Curry Powder

A simple Malaysian Meat Curry Powder that adds loads of flavour to your favourite curries. Try it with homemade Tandoori chicken, or curried sausages and all your favourite Asian curries.
5 from 115 votes!
Prep Time: 1 minute
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 11 minutes
Course: Spice
Cuisine: Indian
Diet: Diabetic, Gluten Free
Recipe Category: Low Carb
Calories: 11kcal
Author: Megan Ellam
Servings: 10 serves
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Equipment

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Ingredients 

Instructions

CONVENTIONAL METHOD

  • Lightly toast whole cloves, cardamom, black and white peppercorns, cinnamon quill, star anise, bay leaf, and chillies, over medium heat until fragrant. Remove and reserve.
  • Fry coriander seeds until fragrant and add to other spices. Add remaining ingredients and cook until fragrant.
  • Blend all spices in a blender or grind with a mortar and pestle.

THERMOMIX® METHOD

  • Place whole cloves, cardamom, black and white peppercorns, cinnamon, star anise, bay leaf, and chillies into mixer; cook 8 min/100°C/reverse/speed 1. Remove and reserve.
  • Add remaining ingredients; cook 3 min/100°C/reverse/speed 1.
  • Add all the spices back to mixer; mill 30 sec/speed 10.

Notes

How to Store Malaysian Meat Curry Powder:
  1. Airtight Container: Transfer the curry powder to an airtight container to protect it from air and moisture.
  2. Cool, Dark Place: Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight.
  3. Avoid Heat: Keep the curry powder away from heat sources, as exposure to heat can lead to flavor deterioration.
  4. Check Regularly: Periodically check the aroma and color of the curry powder. If it loses its vibrancy, it may be time to refresh the blend or make a new batch.
  5. Use Within Six Months: While the spices won’t spoil, their flavors may diminish over time. Aim to use the curry powder within six months for optimal taste.

Your Own Notes

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Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 11kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 35mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 1mg | Net Carbs: 1g
Tried this recipe?Mention @meganellam or tag #madcreations!

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26 responses to “Malaysian Meat Curry Powder”

  1. Lathiya

    5 stars
    Curry is an integral part of our cuisine…this Malaysian curry powder sounds flavorful and I’m sure it adds immense flavor to the dish.

    Reply
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5 from 115 votes (100 ratings without comment)

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