I hadn't read that post, very interesting!
The more I am thinking about the smell and taste of this version of base the more I am believing the key lies with the correct blend of whole spices or garam masala.
I think this could actually become quite an interesting discovery for me and a new stepping stone as I had hit a bit of a wall up until making this base. I will have to do a bit of experimenting and will also try reclaiming oil on the next batch, providing this batch goes down well ;D
Del