The Curious History of Curry: From Ancient Spice to Global Phenomenon
Curry’s Global Footprint
By the early 1940s, the word “curry” was everywhere. It had been embraced in Fiji, Japan, and Singapore, traveled to South Africa, Jamaica, and Guyana, and even popped up in Britain, Germany, and Scandinavia (think of German currywurst or curried herring!). Americans had been enjoying it for a century, with the very first American cookbook, 1824’s The Virginia Housewife, featuring a curry recipe.
The Indian Paradox
Despite its global presence, one of the only places in the world that didn’t have a dish explicitly called “curry” was, surprisingly enough, India itself. This word, then as now, carries a meaning as broad and inclusive as its ingredients. It can refer to any stew made with Indian spices, or even the yellow spice powder (typically a mixture of turmeric, coriander, cumin, and fenugreek) used in dishes like chicken salad.
A Maritime Journey
Tracing curry’s spread isn’t difficult; it traveled by sea, following traders, laborers, and the ancient vectors of colonization and conquest. It’s a story deeply intertwined with global exploration and cultural exchange.
The Portuguese Connection: Coining “Carel”
The story truly begins when the Portuguese first arrived on India’s palm-fringed southern shores in 1498. They were in search of valuable spices like cardamom, cloves, and black pepper. When they encountered spicy, coconut-thickened stews, they lacked a specific word to describe them. So, they made one up: carel, derived from the Tamil word Kari.
What Did Kari Mean?
The meaning and origin of that original Tamil word Kari are surprisingly complex. Dr. Lizzie Collingham, author of the authoritative book Curry: A Tale Of Cooks And Conquerors, suggests it meant something akin to “biting.” Colleen Taylor Sen, a renowned food historian and author of Curry: A Global History, offers the more commonly accepted etymology of “spiced sauce.”
The British Influence: From Carel to “Curry”
The British East India Company, established in 1600, quickly surpassed Portuguese dominance. They also adopted the word carel, which their Anglo-Saxon tongues soon transformed into “curry.” They used this broad term to describe the wide range of spiced stews prepared by local Indian cooks, who politely adapted their complex cuisine for the often milder palates of their new invaders.
The Rise of Curry Powder
Back in India, British companies began manufacturing “curry powders” with grand names like “The Empress.” They sold these not only to eager London housewives but also to a captive audience of colonial subjects. As the British traveled, they carried curry powder with them, and so, the concept of “curry” spread rapidly across Southeast Asia and beyond.
“Curry” in Modern India
Inevitably, the word “curry” also made its way back home to India. Here, “curry” isn’t a distinct flavor, a single ingredient, or a generic term for all spice mixes (that’s what masala is for!). Instead, you’ll primarily see it on English-language menus to broadly indicate gravy-based – or moist – dishes. It’s a fascinating linguistic and culinary journey that highlights the rich interplay of cultures.
Experience Authentic Indian Cuisine at Sula Indian Restaurant, Vancouver
At Sula Indian Restaurant in Vancouver, we truly understand the nuances of Indian spices and traditional cooking. While the word “curry” has a complex past, our dishes offer genuine, rich flavors that honor India’s culinary heritage.
Your Destination for Indian Food in Vancouver
Visit Us at Sula and immerse yourself in an authentic Indian dining experience. Our comfortable dining rooms are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual meal or a special celebration. We look forward to serving you some of the best curry in Vancouver! Convenient Options: Delivery and Takeout
Beyond our inviting dine-in experience, Sula Indian Restaurant in Vancouver also proudly offers convenient Indian food delivery and takeout. You can easily place your online orders for authentic Indian dishes from any of our locations. And for the perfect pairing with your meal, be sure to explore our carefully selected Sula Wines from Gehringer Brothers Winery.
We strive to be your go-to Indian restaurant near me for exceptional Indian food in downtown Vancouver, Commercial Drive, and other Vancouver locations. Come and taste the difference that passion for authentic Indian cuisine makes!
