Learn how to store curry leaves fresh for longer in the fridge, or freezer with simple tips and tricks to preserve their flavor and aroma.
If there's one flavoring ingredient I absolutely love in Indian cuisine, it has to be curry leaves. Growing up in South India, I was always fascinated by the incredible aroma. Just a few leaves can instantly elevate a dish, adding a depth of flavor that's simply unmatched.
Curry leaves, sometimes referred to as kadhi patta, are an essential component of Indian cuisine. This fragrant herb is commonly used in a range of cuisines from around the nation, including vegetable sambar, neer majjige (spiced buttermilk), and gujarati kadhi. The strong flavors of curry leaves, primarily used in South Indian cuisine, make a meal stand out from the crowd. Also, check out the detailed post on how to store cilantro.
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What are Curry Leaves?
Curry leaves are a type of fresh herb derived from the curry leaf plant. These leaves have an oddly bitter flavor and sweet-pungent aroma. They will provide a nutty aroma as well as hints of anise and citrus when added to food. Cooking with it is the only way to experience its flavor properly.
Different Names for Curry Leaves
There are several names for curry leaves. However, the scientific name is Murraya Koenigii. Besides that, it is known as 'Kadi Patta' in Hindi. In Kannada, it's known as 'Karibevu', 'Tamil, its 'Kariveppila', whereas Gujaratis call it 'Mitho Limdo'.
How to Use Curry Leaves?
Curry leaves can be used in a variety of ways. The most common way of using curry leaves is tempering (or tadka). We use curry leaves along with mustard seeds and green chilies to get that pungent taste and aroma.
Other than that, it can also be used to make chutney, curry leaves chutney powder, Indian curries like potato masala, stir-fries like carrot beans poriyal, rice dishes like bisi bele bath, salads like carrot beetroot kosambari, and more. Whatever way you choose to use curry leaves, make sure to fry them in oil to get that burst of flavor.
Where to Buy Curry Leaves?
Curry leaves are available at Indian grocery stores, farmers' markets, and even certain Asian food stores. There will be a few tiny sprigs when you purchase them; as most recipes only call for individual leaves, remove them, and throw away the stems.
How To Store Curry Leaves?
We'll demonstrate three different methods for storing curry leaves. First, put it in the refrigerator; second, put it in the freezer; and third, use dried curry leaves.
Cleaning Curry Leaves
Make sure to wash the leaves first under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. After that, spread them out in a single layer on a kitchen or paper towel and gently wipe them dry. You may alternatively let them air dry on the kitchen towel for a few hours.
PS: You may wash curry leaves, spin them in a salad spinner to remove excess water, and store them in an airtight container.
In the Refrigerator
Curry leaves should be wrapped in a paper towel to absorb any extra moisture before being placed in an airtight container for storage in the refrigerator. Whenever you use them in your cuisine, be sure they are okay. Be sure to remove any brown or damaged leaves that you see. Replace the paper towel on a weekly basis and wipe away any water droplets that collect in the container.
In The Freezer
The leaves can be stored in the freezer in a Ziplock bag or an airtight container. Squeeze out any excess air and seal tightly. Don't worry! The flavor doesn't vary, even though the leaves colors do. Simply take them out of the freezer whenever you need to use them. No need to thaw them.
Dried Curry Leaves
And the last one is the dried curry leaves method. If you have an excess of curry leaves and do not intend to use them all up while they are fresh, you may dry them-dried curry leaves keep for 6-12 months when stored correctly!
Place the washed and dried curry leaves on a clean, dry surface, such as a plate or baking sheet. Make sure to spread the leaves in a single layer without overcrowding to let the airflow properly. Keep them on the kitchen counter away from the direct sunlight and moisture. Allow them to air dry for 2-3 days until they become crisp.
Once the curry leaves have been dried, store them in an airtight glass container or ziplock bag. You can crush them roughly and store them.
Frequently Asked Questions
It keeps them fresher and longer to leave the stem on. Put them in an airtight container or plastic bag after wrapping them (and the stem, too) in a paper towel.
No, wash the leaves under cold running water.
Yes, you can skip using a kitchen towel to store curry leaves in the refrigerator. Instead, use a paper towel as it helps absorb excess moisture and keeps them fresh for longer. Or simply store curry leaves in a clean and dry airtight container or ziplock bag.
The leaves will remain fresh for more than two weeks when stored properly.
Yes, it's completely fine to freeze curry leaves. It may change the color, but the flavor and the aroma will be the same.
Freezing curry leaves is an optimal method to help preserve the flavor, and aroma when compared to drying.
We advise utilizing frozen curry leaves within 4-6 months. However, Dried curry leaves can survive for up to a year if they are kept in an airtight container or Mason jar.
More Cooking 101 Recipes
How to Store Curry Leaves
Ingredients
- fresh curry leaves
Instructions
Cleaning Curry Leaves
- No matter how you want to store the leaves, make sure to wash the leaves first under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. After that, spread them out in a single layer on a kitchen or paper towel and gently wipe them dry. You may alternatively let them air dry on the kitchen towel for a few hours.PS: You may wash curry leaves, spin them in a salad spinner to remove excess water, and store them in an airtight container.
In the Refrigerator
- Curry leaves should be wrapped in a paper towel to absorb any extra moisture before being placed in an airtight container for storage in the refrigerator. Whenever you use them in your cuisine, be sure they are okay. Be sure to remove any brown or damaged leaves that you see. Replace the paper towel on a weekly basis and wipe away any water droplets that collect in the container.
In The Freezer
- The leaves can be kept in the freezer in a Ziploc bag or air-tight container. Squeeze out any excess air and seal tightly. Don't worry! The flavor doesn't vary, even though the leaves colors do. Simply take them out of the freezer whenever you need to use them. No need to thaw them.
Dried Curry Leaves
- And the last one is the dried curry leaves method. If you have an excess of curry leaves and do not intend to use them all up while they are fresh, you may dry them-dried curry leaves keep for 6-12 months when stored correctly!
- Place the washed and dried curry leaves on a clean, dry surface, such as a plate or baking sheet. Make sure to spread the leaves in a single layer without overcrowding to let the airflow properly. Keep them on the kitchen counter away from the direct sunlight and moisture. Allow them to air dry for 2-3 days until they become crisp.
- Once the curry leaves have been dried, store them in an airtight glass container or ziplock bag. You can crush them roughly and store them.
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