While it's good practice to toast the spices in oil before proceeding with your curry recipe, if overdone, the spices can become bitter. Usually two minutes is enough time for the spices to release their wonderful aroma. Immediately add the next ingredients so the spices don't continue to toast in the pan. u003cbr/u003eIf your curry tastes bitter, add a bit of sugar and/or salt. Often that will counteract the bitter taste. Add small amounts, a pinch at a time, and taste frequently. Another remedy is a squeeze of lime juice.