Jamaican Curry Powder is a combination of Caribbean spices that is a pantry staple across the region. Like other traditional spice blends, curry is highly subject to variations that vary in flavor, complexity, and heat. It differs from region to region based on local tastes. Base mixes are generally composed of coriander seeds, cumin seeds, yellow mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, whole pimento berries (allspice berries), black peppercorns, turmeric, ginger, nutmeg, chili, cinnamon, and even optionally, cloves, star anise, thyme, garlic powder, and white pepper.
Jamaican curry powder has a different appearance than that of Indian curry powder. Because fresh Jamaican curry dishes usually have fresh spices added to them as well as Jamaican flavors such as pimento, scotch bonnet chili and personal preferences like nutmeg. Jamaican curry powder is typically heavier on the turmeric in proportion to the other spices. As a result, most blends are a bright yellow. Madras curry powder and other Indian curry powders may have more of a red tint because of the chili pepper in them. It is also lower in heat than the Indian version.
