What we know as “curry powder” is actually a blend of spices, invented by the British to resemble one of the famous masalas (spice blends) of India. In addition to ground coriander, cumin, mustard seed, turmeric, and other spices, good Madras curry (such as Sun Brand) contains ground, dried curry (or “kari”) leaves, which are a typical spice of southern and southwestern India. Most authentic Indian recipes call not for curry powder, but a combination of spices (a masala) specifically designed for that dish.