Saus Kari, the vibrant and aromatic Indonesian curry sauce, is a passport to a world of flavor. Unlike its Indian counterpart, Saus Kari boasts a unique blend of spices that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Imagine a symphony of flavors: warm cumin, earthy coriander, and fiery chilies, all harmonizing in a creamy coconut milk base. Intrigued? Let’s embark on this culinary journey and unlock the secrets of crafting your own delicious Saus Kari at home!
Unveiling the Magic of Saus Kari
Saus Kari, often called “Indonesian curry sauce” in English, holds a special place in Indonesian cuisine. It’s incredibly versatile, gracing dishes like chicken curry (Kari Ayam), goat curry (Kari Kambing), and even vegetable curry (Sayur Lodeh).
Why you should try making Saus Kari:
- Bursting with flavor: The unique blend of Indonesian spices creates an explosion of taste that will leave you wanting more.
- Versatile: Use it as a base for countless dishes, from hearty curries to flavorful stir-fries.
- Surprisingly easy to make: Don’t let the long list of spices intimidate you – the process is simpler than you think!
Ingredients: Your Saus Kari Starter Pack
The Essentials
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-inch ginger, minced
- 2-3 red chilies, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
The Spice Blend – The Heart of Saus Kari
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
The Creamy Base and Flavor Enhancers
- 400 ml (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tbsp tamarind pulp, dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water (optional, but adds a lovely tang)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or palm sugar (adjust to your preference)
Garnishes (Optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Fried shallots
