Sri Lankan Cashew Curry
- 45 min
- Serves 4
- 16 ingredients
15 minutes to prep, 30 to cook. A fragrant Sri Lankan cashew curry that blends buttery cashews with aromatic pandan, fresh curry leaves, and warm spices. The creamy coconut base is brightened by a quick tempering of mustard seeds and extra curry leaves, creating a luxurious yet comforting dish perfect for special occasions.
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Method
Heat 2 tbsp coconut oil in a pan over medium heat, add the finely sliced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add the halved garlic cloves, green chillies, fresh curry leaves, turmeric, and fenugreek seeds (if using); fry briefly for 1 minute.
Stir in the Sri Lankan curry powder, cinnamon stick, and finely sliced pandan leaf, cooking for another minute to release aromas.
Add the cashews and toast lightly for 2 minutes, then pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
Season with salt to taste, add the frozen peas if desired, and cook until the sauce thickens and the cashews are tender, about 5–7 minutes.
For the turka (tempering), heat 1 tbsp coconut oil in a small skillet, add a handful of curry leaves and black mustard seeds, and fry until the seeds pop, about 30 seconds.
Pour the hot turka over the finished curry and stir to incorporate before serving.
Tips while you cook
- Sauté onions fully
- Cook the sliced onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes, before adding garlic and spices.
- Toast cashews before liquid
- Lightly toast the cashews for 2 minutes before pouring in the coconut milk.
- Add tempering at the end
- Prepare the turka and pour it over the curry just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.
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