Hi Carl,
It is a bit confusing this one isn't it?
Usually, on this site at least, when a recipe refers to "curry powder" it is generally understood to be a commercial, shop bought curry powder such as Rajah Mild Madras.
However, when a recipe has actually been sourced from a BIR or TA, even though they may refer to it as "Curry Powder" it is probably spice mix, AKA base spice, curry masala, mixed powder, spice blend, curry spice and so on...
As VC say's, quite a few spice mixes do actually contain curry powder, which has been debated here before, as to why it is included. I also add it to my spice mix because it does add something to it. I do know when I've missed it out, I can really tell the difference.
My advice would be, if a dish asks for "curry powder" replace with spice mix, unless like CA's, it specifies both!
Ray
