Spicy Tomato Curry Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Step-by-Step Guide
Tomato curry is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with rice, bread, or even as a standalone meal. The rich flavor of tomatoes combined with a variety of spices creates a perfectly balanced, hearty curry. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through making a mouth-watering, spicy tomato curry.
This recipe is packed with flavor and can be adjusted to suit your spice tolerance. The ingredients are simple, and the process is straightforward. Here’s everything you need to know about making a spicy tomato curry that will surely delight your taste buds.
What Makes Spicy Tomato Curry Special?
Spicy tomato curry is known for its vibrant red color, savory depth, and the warmth it brings with every bite. The star ingredients—ripe tomatoes, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs—combine to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Not only does it pair wonderfully with various sides like steamed rice or naan, but it can also be adjusted to suit different tastes, from mildly tangy to fiery hot.
Some of the key ingredients include cumin, coriander, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and, of course, tomatoes. Together, they form a robust base that carries a complex yet balanced flavor profile. You can make the curry vegan by omitting any dairy and using plant-based oil.
Instructions to Make Spicy Tomato Curry
Ingredients:
- 5-6 ripe tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-inch piece of ginger (minced)
- 2 green chilies (slit)
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or olive oil)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
- Water as needed

Instructions:
Prepare the ingredients: Start by chopping the tomatoes, finely dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic and ginger. Spicy Tomato Curry Recipe Slice the green chilies to allow them to release their heat during cooking.
Cook the spices: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to sizzle. Once they turn golden, add the chopped onions and sauté them until they turn translucent.
Sauté garlic, ginger, and chilies: Add the minced garlic, ginger, and green chilies to the pan. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the aroma of garlic and ginger becomes prominent.
Add dry spices: Now, add the turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and salt to the pan. Stir well, allowing the spices to cook for another 2 minutes.
Tomato base: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir the mixture well, covering the pan and allowing the tomatoes to cook down into a thick paste. You may need to add a small amount of water to help the tomatoes break down.
Simmer the curry: Once the tomatoes are cooked through, lower the heat and add water to achieve the desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the water and let it cook longer.
Add sweetness and finish: If the curry tastes too acidic, you can balance the flavors by adding a tablespoon of sugar. Stir in the garam masala and let the curry simmer for another 5 minutes.
Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve the spicy tomato curry hot with rice, naan, or your preferred bread.
Tips for a Perfect Spicy Tomato Curry
To make your spicy tomato curry stand out, consider the following tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies or the amount of red chili powder based on how spicy you want the curry.
- Tomato Quality: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for a rich, flavorful curry base.
- Blending Option: If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can blend the curry after cooking the tomatoes for a velvety texture.
- Add Protein: Add paneer, chickpeas, or tofu to turn the curry into a complete meal.

FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, this curry can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the spicy tomato curry?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the curry in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat before serving.
Q: What should I serve with spicy tomato curry?
A: Spicy tomato curry pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice, chapati, naan, or any bread of your choice. You can also enjoy it with a side of raita (yogurt sauce) to cool down the spiciness.
Q: Can I make this curry vegan?
A: Yes, just skip the sugar if you prefer a savory version and use plant-based oil. This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly!