Hi MA, yep I have been shown this technique. The garlic oil is important even if you don't use the garlic, keep it in the fridge as it's great to have for rice or anything even marinade.
You can use fresh blended toms or blended tinned toms instead of past if u like a lighter dish. Just use less base.
Or can use less powder and more fresh chillies , fresh ingredients is always preferable but not as fast to prepare.
Enjoy