Where Does The Word “Curry” Come From

When it comes to the wonders of curry, no one can argue that it’s become a big part of cuisines worldwide. From warming you up on a cold winter’s night to delivering spoonfuls of delicious heat as everyone tucks into the hot and spicy goodness of a curry dish. But while you may be familiar with the great flavours this dish brings, have you ever wondered where the word "curry" itself comes from? Join us as we unearth the rich origins of this beloved dish, exploring its roots, its evolution and its spicy significance in cultures far and wide.

The Robust History and Origins of Curry

While you might be familiar with curries thanks to those mouthwatering memories of the aroma of your grandmother’s chicken korma, seasoned with Rajah, cooking away on the stove, its history is quite complex. The story begins in India, a land renowned for its aromatic spices and spicy dishes. While this flavourful dish’s roots are linked to Indian cuisine, the word curry does not exist in any of the country’s official languages. Rather, the word curry was adapted from the Tamil word kari or khari, which means sauce or relish.

During the era of European traders and migrants journeying to India, they discovered the flavourful kari dish, which is where the story of curry truly begins. These traders and explorers took the word kari and then adapted it to the word curry, a term that has become synonymous with a diverse array of spicy dishes across the world, inspired by the tastes and flavours of India. As British traders and settlers returned to Europe, they tried to recreate the spicy, rich kari dish they had come to love in India.

However, as the fresh spices needed for the dish were not widely available in Britain, they struggled to recreate the dish. As a solution, a few British cooks created a pre-mixed spice blend called curry powder, that offered a robust, spicy flavour similar to that of the original Indian dish. This is how the rich spice blend we know as curry powder came about.

Over time, the concept of the curry dish expanded across the globe.

As more regions adopted and adapted this culinary marvel, they infused it with their unique spices, herbs and cooking methods to create new and exciting versions of the curry dish. As a result, curries have become a global phenomenon, even making their way to the shores of Mzansi thanks to the quality, robust flavour and authenticity of Rajah’s Curry Powder range.

Rajah's Curry Powders: Generous Flavour and Aroma You Can Taste

The Rajah Curry Powder range includes six tasty variants, ensuring you can enjoy flavour and heat that’s perfectly suited to your taste. These include:

• Rajah Mild & Spicy Curry Powder

• Rajah Hot Curry Powder

• Rajah Medium Curry Powder

• Rajah Mild Masala Curry Powder

• Rajah All-In-One Curry Powder

• Rajah Flavourful & Mild Curry Powder

From the bold kick of the Rajah Hot Curry Powder to the nuanced warmth of the Flavourful & Mild variant, there's a Rajah Curry Powder for every palate and every occasion. Whether you're simmering a pot of chakalaka or crafting exotic curries, Rajah is your trusted companion, promising a culinary journey that transcends borders and traditions. So embrace the legacy of this spice blend with Rajah’s exceptional range, to infuse your meals with the magic of expertly blended curry powders that deliver delectable flavour, satisfying heat and aroma you can taste to every plate.

Get ready to elevate your dishes, one sprinkle at a time with the name you can trust for bold, spicy flavours and aromas you’ll love – Rajah. Visit Whatsfordinner today for scrumptious, quick and easy curry recipe inspiration with the Rajah range to delight your tastebuds.