Step 1

In a large saucepan that has a lid, heat the oil over medium high heat. Add the cumin seeds, coriander and cinnamon stick and infuse for around 30 seconds. Pour in the chopped onions. Stir continuously so that the onions become soft and translucent. Fry for about 15 minutes ensuring that the onions do not brown or stick to the pan.

Step 2

Stir in the garlic and ginger paste, chilli powder and turmeric followed by the chopped tomatoes and allow to sizzle over medium heat for about five minutes. Add about a teaspoon of salt. This will help the onion release moisture into the sauce.

Step 3

The onions and tomatoes will begin to break down, turning into a thick sauce. This is a sauce you can use for any restaurant style curry. You may want to leave the chilli powder out though if you’re making mild curries.

Step 4

Add the chicken pieces and tomato paste.

Step 5

Stir it all up nicely and pour in just enough water or spice stock to cover the chicken.

Step 6

Cover the curry and let it simmer for about ten minutes. The sauce will become nice and thick and will stick to the chicken pieces as they cook.

Step 7

Remove the lid and stir adding a drop more water if you prefer a thinner sauce or turn up the heat if it is too runny.

Step 8

You’ll know when the curry is ready when the oil comes to the top. Simply skim it off.

Step 9

Stir in one tablespoon of the garam masala and taste. Add more if needed. I usually use about two tablespoons of garam masala.