Name: Vadouvan Spice Blend
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 3 hrs
Yield: Makes about 3 cups
Ingredients: 2 pounds onions, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 pound shallots, halved; 12 garlic cloves, peeled; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds; 1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh curry leaves (optional); 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1 teaspoon brown mustard seeds; 3/4 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon hot red-pepper flakes; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; an electric coffee/spice grinder or a mortar and pestle

There are many versions of vadouvan, a French interpretation the Indian spice blend, but we like the one that Grimes came up with, starting with a formula by chef Inaki Aizpitarte, of Le Chateaubriand, and roasting it for a deep, meaty flavor.

Make one big batch and keep it in the freezer for weeks—we're sure you'll be tossing it into all kinds of dishes.

Cooks' note:

Vadouvan keeps in the refrigerator 1 month (cool before covering) or in the freezer 6 months. This recipe's headnote has been updated as a part of our archive repair project.

Recipe notes

See Related Recipes and Cooking Tips

Our 39 Best Spice Mixes
Homemade chili powder, pumpkin pie spice, everything bagel seasoning: they're all here.

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

One-Pot Chicken Thighs With Cilantro Rice and Beans

This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Speedy Chicken Stroganoff

This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.

Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce

A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.

Recipe notes

Our 39 Best Spice Mixes