Exploring the Flavors of Japanese Curry: Recipe and Key Ingredients

Japanese curry is a popular dish in Japan that has become increasingly popular worldwide. It is a type of stew that typically consists of meat, potatoes, carrots, and onions, all simmered in a thick, flavorful sauce curry. The sauce is made by mixing curry powder, flour, and other spices with a broth or water, and then simmering the ingredients together until the sauce thickens and the flavor melds together.

Japanese curry is often served with rice and is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for any time of year. Whether you are a fan of spicy food or prefer something milder, Japanese curry is a versatile and delicious dish that is worth trying!

What Japanese Curry?

Japanese curry, also known as "kare" in Japan, is a type of curry that has been adapted to Japanese tastes and has become a popular dish in Japan. It typically consists of a thick, savory sauce made from curry powder, flour, and other spices, which is then combined with meat and vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions.

The dish is often served over rice, and can be customized to suit individual tastes by adjusting the spiciness or adding additional ingredients such as apples, honey, or cheese. Japanese curry is a hearty and comforting dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages, and has gained popularity in many parts of the world due to its unique and delicious flavor.

 

What are the Ingredients and Spices Used in Japanese Curry?

Japanese curry typically uses a variety of ingredients and spices to create its distinctive flavor. Here are some of the most common ones:

 

- Curry powder: This is the main spice used to create the sauce curry. Japanese curry powder typically contains a blend of spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, cardamom, and fenugreek, and is milder and sweeter than Indian curry powder.

- Meat: Beef, pork, and chicken are commonly used in Japanese curry. Some recipes may also use seafood or tofu.

- Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, and onions are the most common vegetables used in Japanese curry. Other vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant, and zucchini may also be added.

- Flour: Flour is used to thicken the curry sauce.

- Oil: Vegetable oil or butter is used to sauté the vegetables and meat.

- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth is often used as the base of the curry sauce.

- Soy sauce: Soy sauce is used to add depth and saltiness to the curry sauce.

- Sugar: Sugar is often added to balance out the curry flavored sauce.

- Apple or honey: These ingredients may be added to give the curry sauce a slightly sweet flavor.

- Garlic and ginger: These aromatics are often added to the curry sauce for additional flavor.

 

Overall, the combination of these ingredients and spices creates a rich and complex flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.

 

How to Make Japanese Curry at Home With The Curry Recipe?

Making Japanese style curry at home is easy and can be customized to your taste preferences. Here is a simple curry recipe to get you started:

 

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 pound beef, chicken or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons Japanese curry powder
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the carrots and potatoes, and cook for 2-3 minutes.

4. Sprinkle the flour and curry powder over the meat and vegetables, and stir well to coat.

5. Add the broth and stir well to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened.

6. Add the soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

7. Serve the curry over cooked rice.

 

This recipe can be easily adapted by adding or subtracting vegetables, using a different protein or adjusting the spice level. It's a delicious and comforting meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year.

 

Some Popular Dishes pair with Japanese Curry 

Japanese curry is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of other dishes to create a satisfying meal. Here are three popular dishes that are often paired with Japanese curry:

 

Katsu Curry

Katsu curry is a popular dish in Japan that combines Japanese curry with a breaded and fried cutlet of meat, usually pork or chicken. It is served on a bed of rice and topped with curry sauce. This dish is hearty and satisfying, with the crispy breaded meat providing a contrast to the rich and savory sauce curry.

Curry Udon

Curry udon is a variation of the popular noodle soup dish udon, in which the noodles are served in a thick and flavorful curry broth. The broth is made with curry powder, flour, and other spices, and is simmered with vegetables and meat or bean curd. The noodles are then added to the broth and served hot. Curry udon is a comforting and filling dish that is perfect for a cold day.

Curry Bread

Curry bread is a popular snack in Japan that consists of a breaded and deep-fried ball of dough filled with Japanese curry. The dough is similar to that of a donut or beignet, but savory instead of sweet. The curry filling is usually mild and sweet, and is a perfect complement to the crispy and slightly sweet dough. Curry bread is often sold at convenience stores and bakeries in Japan, and makes for a tasty and convenient snack on the go.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Japanese curry is a delicious and versatile dish that has become popular around the world. It is made with a combination of spices, vegetables, and protein, and can be customized to suit individual tastes. Some popular dishes that are often paired with Japanese curry include katsu curry, curry udon, and curry bread.

If you're looking to experience the delicious flavors of Japanese curry at home, consider trying out the range of Nisabakri Gourmet's curry paste. Their curry roux cubes blocks come in a variety of flavor and spice levels, making it easy to customize your curry to your liking. Nisabakri Gourmet's products are made with high-quality ingredients and are sure to elevate your Japanese curry game. 

 

FAQ

1. Is curry in Japanese spicy?

Japanese curry can range in spice level, depending on the brand of curry roux or homemade recipe used. Some Japanese curries are mild and sweet, while others can be quite spicy. It ultimately depends on personal taste preferences and the recipe used.

2. Can I use regular curry powder to make Japanese curry?

While regular curry powder can be used to make Japanese curry, the flavor and consistency may be different from traditional Japanese curry. Japanese curry roux blocks or homemade curry powder are recommended to achieve the authentic flavor and texture of Japanese curry.

3. What are some common side dishes to serve with Japanese curry?

Common side dishes to serve with Japanese curry include pickles, steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans, and a salad. Some people also like to serve Japanese curry with a side of tonkatsu or japanese chicken karaage.

4. Is curry in Japanese typically served with rice or noodles?

Japanese curry is typically served with rice, although it can also be served with udon noodles or bread, depending on the dish.