What is difference between Indian curry powder and oriental?

It's important to clarify that "oriental" is not a precise culinary term. It's often used to refer to cuisines from East Asia (like Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, etc.), but it can be vague and potentially inaccurate.

Here's a breakdown of the differences between Indian curry powder and common East Asian spice blends:

Indian Curry Powder:

* Origin: India

* Key Ingredients: Turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, ginger, garlic, black pepper, fenugreek, mustard seeds, and sometimes garam masala (a blend of whole spices).

* Flavor Profile: Warm, complex, with a balance of earthy, spicy, and slightly sweet notes.

* Usage: Primarily used in Indian cooking, but also found in other cuisines.

* Variations: There are many regional variations of curry powder, each with its unique blend of spices and flavor profile.

East Asian Spice Blends:

* Origin: Varies by region (e.g., China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam).

* Key Ingredients: Differ widely depending on the cuisine and dish. Common spices include:

* Chinese: Star anise, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, garlic, Sichuan peppercorns, chili flakes, salt, sugar, etc.

* Japanese: Dried bonito flakes, kelp, ginger, soy sauce, mirin, sake, etc.

* Korean: Gochugaru (Korean chili powder), ginger, garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, etc.

* Vietnamese: Lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, chili flakes, fish sauce, etc.

* Flavor Profile: Varies significantly based on the specific blend and cuisine.

* Usage: Used in a wide range of dishes, from stir-fries to soups and stews.

Key Differences:

* Spice Composition: Indian curry powder typically includes a broader range of spices, while East Asian spice blends are more tailored to specific regional cuisines and dishes.

* Flavor Profile: Indian curry powder generally has a warmer, more complex flavor profile compared to many East Asian spice blends, which can be more focused on savory, umami, or spicy notes.

* Usage: Indian curry powder is used predominantly in Indian cuisine, while East Asian spice blends are more diversely applied in their respective cuisines.

Important Note:

The terms "Indian curry powder" and "Oriental spice blend" are very broad. There are countless variations within each category, and the specific ingredients and flavor profiles can differ greatly depending on the brand, region, and recipe.