Tomato curry is one of those dishes that proves how simple ingredients can deliver deep comfort and unforgettable flavor. At Shalimar Phuket, this dish has been perfected with a balance of tanginess, gentle spices, and a smooth, rich texture that pairs beautifully with rice, roti, or naan.
Whether you enjoy light vegetarian curries or flavorful gravies with a refreshing zing, this recipe is an excellent example of how tomatoes can transform into a satisfying meal.
In this article, we walk you through a detailed tomato curry recipe, the ingredients that make it so special, and some helpful tips to recreate it at home. The style remains true to our kitchen at Shalimar—fresh, balanced, vibrant, and made with care.
The Flavor Profile of Tomato Curry
Tomato curry is known for its bright color, tangy aroma, and smooth texture. The richness comes from slow-cooking tomatoes with onions and warming spices until the mixture becomes silky. Variations of this dish exist across different regions—some include nuts like cashews for extra creaminess, while others keep it simple and home-style. At Shalimar, we focus on clean, wholesome flavors and a balanced spice profile that suits both locals and travelers visiting Phuket.
You might have heard of versions like kaju tomato curry, tomato cashew curry, or even tomato egg curry in different parts of South Asia. Each has its own charm, but the classic vegetarian tomato curry remains a favorite because of its simplicity and versatility.
Ingredients to Make Curry
A perfect curry depends on using ripe, juicy tomatoes that provide natural sweetness and acidity. The usual base includes:
- Fresh tomatoes, pureed or finely chopped
- Onions for depth
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Mild spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and red chili
- Optional cashew paste for a richer finish
- Fresh herbs to brighten the dish
All these ingredients blend together to create a harmonious and fragrant curry.
Step-by-Step Tomato Curry Recipe
Here is a detailed yet simple version inspired by how we prepare it at Shalimar Phuket. This method gives you a smooth, balanced gravy that can be enjoyed with almost any side.
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Base
Start by blending fresh tomatoes into a smooth puree. This helps reduce cooking time and gives the curry its signature velvety feel. If you prefer chunkier curry, you can finely chop the tomatoes instead.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden—the sweetness of the onions balances the tang of the tomatoes. Add ginger-garlic paste and continue to cook until aromatic. This base is essential for building flavor.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Sprinkle turmeric, cumin, coriander, and mild chili powder. Cook for a minute so the spices release their natural oils. This step prevents raw flavor and helps deepen the taste.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the tomato puree. Allow the mixture to cook on medium heat until the oil begins separating from the sides. This means the tomatoes have fully cooked and the spices have blended well.
Step 5: Optional Cashew Paste
If you want a richer version, similar to kaju tomato curry or tomato cashew curry, you can add a smooth paste of soaked cashews. This gives a beautiful creamy texture without overpowering the tomato flavor.
Step 6: Adjust Consistency and Seasoning
Add water to achieve your preferred consistency. Some prefer a thick gravy for flatbreads, while others like it slightly runny for rice. Season with salt and simmer for a few more minutes.
Step 7: Finish with Herbs
Garnish with fresh herbs for added aroma and color. Serve hot with rice, naan, or roti.
Chef’s Tips from Shalimar Phuket
- Choose bright red, ripe tomatoes for natural sweetness.
- Cook the tomatoes well to avoid any raw or overly tangy taste.
- If you’re wondering how to reduce tomato taste in curry, slow-cooking with onions or adding a small amount of cashew paste helps create balance.
- A pinch of sugar is sometimes used to bring harmony to the flavors, but only if the tomatoes are extremely sour.
These little techniques reflect the way we maintain consistency and quality in every curry we prepare at Shalimar.
Serving Tomato Curry in Phuket
At Shalimar Phuket, our tomato curry is prepared fresh each day with a focus on clean, comforting flavors. Many guests enjoy it with steamed rice, while others prefer pairing it with soft flatbreads. Its appealing color, gentle spices, and aromatic taste make it a favorite among those looking for light yet satisfying food.
The best part of this curry is its versatility. You can adjust the spice level, add vegetables, or even prepare it in a style similar to your favorite regional variations. No matter how you enjoy it, the essence of tomato curry remains warm, familiar, and fulfilling.
Frequently Asked Questions
how to make tomato curry?
Follow the process of sautéing onions, adding spices, cooking tomato puree, and simmering until the flavors blend.
how to cook tomato curry?
Cook the base ingredients slowly, allowing the tomatoes and spices to develop into a smooth gravy.
how to prepare curry?
Prepare fresh ingredients, cook the aromatics, add tomatoes, and finish with herbs.
how to reduce tomato taste in curry?
Use onions, cashews, or slow-cooking techniques to mellow the acidity.
how to make potato curry without tomato?
You can make potato curry using onions, spices, yogurt, or coconut-based gravies instead of tomatoes.