Vadouvan Spice Recipes
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
Butter Vadouvan Halibut
From: Wulf's Fish
Lean, tender halibut meats a rich, buttery vadouvan sauce in this fabulous fish dish.
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.
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!
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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