Vadouvan Spice

What is Vadouvan Spice?

Vadouvan, also known as French Masala Curry, is a spice blend believed to have originated from French colonial influence in India. It's essentially an Indian curry powder, with the addition of some traditionally French aromatics, such as garlic and shallots. Perhaps because Western palates at the time weren't used to the heat from traditional curries, vadouvan tends to be on the milder side. While it does contain some chilis, they take a back seat to the other spices in the blend, and sugar is often added to further offset the burn. Mild can be a good thing, though, as it allows other spices such as cardamom and turmeric to shine through. The result is an incredibly versatile blend that can take the place of other curry powders, or head off on culinary adventures all its own.

How to Use Vadouvan

As mentioned before, vadouvan can be used in any recipe that calls for a curry powder. It's great when simply sprinkled over chicken or fish, but also lovely with grains, lentils, rice, or roasted root vegetables. One of our favorite tricks is making a simple paste using one part vadouvan to one part olive oil. This is particularly fantastic when rubbed on chicken or lamb before cooking. Of course, if you're looking for more specific ideas, we've got you covered there as well. Below, you'll find some of our favorite vadouvan recipes from around the web!

Vadouvan Curry Chicken

From: Delicious Little Bites

This twist on classic curried chicken is served with cauliflower rice, making it a great choice if you're on a low carb or keto diet.

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Vadouvan Butternut Squash Soup

From: The Domestic Front

Super simple and packed with vegetables (and flavor), this recipe is great for a healthy weeknight meal.

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Vadouvan-Roasted Cauliflower with Harissa Chickpea Curry

From: Bon Appetit

This delicious vegan dish makes an amazing side, or can be served over rice as a magnificent meal in itself!

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Vadouvan Carrot & Cauliflower Puree with Seared Scallops

From: Stacey Snacks

This simple but elegant recipe proves that vadouvan and seafood are a match made in heaven!

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Buy Vadouvan Spice

Vadouvan Hummus

From: Savory Suitcase

Looking for an easy, healthy snack that's anything but boring? This vadouvan hummus is perfect for dipping veggies (or just about anything else) in.

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Vadouvan Steamed Mussels

From: A Mini Kitchen

Have we mentioned how well vadouvan and seafood work together? These magnificent mollusks will make your mouth marvel!

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Butter Vadouvan Halibut

From: Wulf's Fish

Lean, tender halibut meats a rich, buttery vadouvan sauce in this fabulous fish dish.

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Tandoori Carrots

From: Punch Fork

You'll never have trouble getting anyone (even yourself) to eat their vegetables again with this spicy, flavorful carrot dish.

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Red Lentil Vadouvan Coconut Soup

From: Food 52

Lentils are a wonderful source of both protein and fiber, and they never tasted as good as they do in this soup, thanks to a healthy dose of vadouvan spice!

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Vadouvan Crusted Lamb Chops with Toasted Garlic Yogurt Sauce

From: Serious Eats

Slightly spicy, slightly smoky vadouvan helps balance out the gaminess of lamb in this surprisingly simple but immensely tasty recipe.

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