Skip to Content

How to Thicken up a Curry Without Cornflour (10 Ways)

Looking to add some oomph to your curry without relying on cornflour?

Well, worry not!

We’ve got you covered with these 10 tantalizing techniques that will thicken up your curry in no time.

From creamy coconut milk to tangy tamarind paste, we’ll show you how to elevate your curry game with simple and flavorful alternatives.

So, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

How to Thicken up a Curry Without Cornflour

Let’s dive in, shall we?

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a great option for thickening up a curry without using cornflour. When you add coconut milk to your curry, the richness and creaminess it brings helps to create a thicker consistency.

Plus, the natural fats in coconut milk give your curry a velvety texture that is both satisfying and delicious. To use coconut milk as a thickener, simply add it to your curry towards the end of cooking and simmer for a few minutes.

The heat will help the coconut milk blend with the other flavors, creating a cohesive and thickened curry. So, next time you want to thicken up your curry without using cornflour, reach for a can of coconut milk and enjoy the creamy goodness it adds to your dish.

Yogurt

Using yogurt is a great way to add creaminess to your curry.

Yogurt not only adds a smooth texture, but also brings a tangy flavor that complements the spices in your dish.

To incorporate yogurt into your curry, simply whisk it into the sauce towards the end of the cooking process.

The yogurt will blend seamlessly with the other ingredients, enhancing the overall taste.

Make sure to use plain yogurt without any added flavors or sweeteners for the best results.

Additionally, yogurt has the added benefit of being a healthier alternative to heavy cream or coconut milk, as it is lower in fat and calories.

Cashew Paste

To achieve a rich and creamy texture in your curry, consider incorporating cashew paste. This paste adds a subtle nuttiness and velvety consistency to the dish. To make cashew paste, simply blend soaked cashews with a bit of water until smooth.

Cashew paste acts as a natural thickener, making your curry luscious and indulgent. Add the cashew paste towards the end of cooking and let it simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld together. As the cashew paste heats up, it releases its natural oils, creating a luxurious mouthfeel.

The result is a curry that is not only thick and creamy but also packed with flavor. So, the next time you want to elevate your curry game, reach for some cashew paste and enjoy a truly satisfying meal.

Tomato Puree

If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought tomato puree for a quick and convenient way to add depth and tangy flavor to your dishes.

Tomato puree is made from cooked and strained tomatoes, resulting in a smooth and concentrated texture. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes, including curries.

To thicken up your curry using tomato puree, simply add a few tablespoons to the pot and stir it in. The puree will not only enhance the taste of your dish but also provide a rich and velvety consistency.

Additionally, tomato puree adds a vibrant red color to your curry, making it visually appealing.

Ground Almonds

Ground almonds are a versatile ingredient that can add a nutty flavor and a moist texture to your baked goods. But did you know that they can also be used to thicken up your curries?

Yes, that’s right! When added to your curry sauce, ground almonds can help create a rich and creamy consistency without the need for cornflour. Simply grind up some almonds in a food processor or blender until they form a fine powder.

Then, mix this powder into your curry sauce and simmer it for a few minutes to allow the almonds to thicken the sauce. The result will be a deliciously thick and flavorful curry that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Lentil Puree

Now, let’s talk about another great way to thicken up your curry without using cornflour: lentil puree.

Lentils are not only a rich source of protein and fiber, but they also add a wonderful creaminess to your dishes.

To make a lentil puree, simply cook some lentils until they are soft and tender. Then, using a blender or food processor, blend them until smooth.

You can add this lentil puree to your curry towards the end of the cooking process, stirring it in gently to incorporate.

The puree will not only add thickness, but also enhance the flavors of your curry.

Give it a try and enjoy the velvety texture lentil puree brings to your favorite curries!

Mashed Potatoes

Let’s talk about another delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with a wide variety of meals: mashed potatoes.

Whether you’re enjoying a juicy steak or a tender roast chicken, mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that adds a creamy and rich element to any plate.

To make them, simply boil the potatoes until they are soft and tender, then mash them with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt. The result is a smooth and velvety texture that melts in your mouth with every bite.

You can also customize your mashed potatoes by adding garlic, cheese, or herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

Chickpea Flour

Now, let’s talk about another fantastic way to thicken up your curry without using cornflour. Have you ever considered using chickpea flour? It’s a versatile ingredient that can add both thickness and a nutty flavor to your curry.

To use chickpea flour, simply whisk it with some water until you have a smooth paste. Then, gradually add this mixture to your curry while stirring continuously. The chickpea flour will absorb the liquid and help thicken the sauce, giving it a rich and creamy consistency.

Not only does chickpea flour work as a great thickening agent, but it also adds a subtle depth of flavor to your curry. Plus, it’s gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a healthy choice.

Arrowroot Powder

Have you ever tried using arrowroot powder as a thickening agent in your curry? It’s a great alternative to cornflour and can give your sauce a smooth and velvety texture.

Arrowroot powder is derived from the root of the arrowroot plant and has been used for centuries in cooking. To thicken your curry with arrowroot powder, simply mix it with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry, then add it to your simmering curry.

The arrowroot powder will thicken the sauce without altering its taste or color. It’s important to note that arrowroot powder should be added towards the end of the cooking process to avoid over-thickening.

Tamarind Paste

Now that you know about using arrowroot powder to thicken your curry, let’s explore another option: tamarind paste.

Tamarind paste not only adds a tangy flavor to your curry but also acts as a natural thickening agent. To incorporate tamarind paste into your curry, simply dissolve a spoonful of it in warm water and add it to the simmering sauce.

The natural pectin present in tamarind helps to thicken the curry without the need for cornflour. Remember to taste as you go, as tamarind paste can be quite potent. Adjust the amount according to your preference.

With tamarind paste, you can achieve a deliciously thick curry while adding a unique tangy twist to your dish.

jenny happy muncher
 | Website

Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.