Japanese curry is a beloved dish that has gained immense popularity around the world. Its rich and flavorful taste, paired with a comforting and hearty texture, makes it a go-to comfort food for many. While there are different variations of this dish, each with its own unique twist, there is no denying that the best Japanese curry recipe is one that hits all the right notes. In this article, we will explore what makes the perfect Japanese curry and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make it at home.
Japanese curry, also known as "kare raisu," is a delicious and comforting dish that has become a staple in Japanese cuisine. It is a rich and flavorful stew-like dish made with a variety of vegetables, meat, and a thick curry sauce. The dish is typically served over a bed of steamed rice and is a favorite among both locals and tourists. In this article, we will be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes for Japanese curry that you can easily make at home. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a journey to Japan? Let's dive in!
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Japanese Curry With Chicken
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Carrots, Onions, Red
One of the most popular variations of Japanese curry is with chicken. The tender and juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the rich and savory curry sauce. To make this dish, you will need chicken breast or thigh, carrots, potatoes, onions, and your choice of Japanese curry mix. Simply cook the chicken and vegetables in a pot, add in the curry mix, and let it simmer until the sauce thickens. Serve over rice and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Katsu Curry (Japanese Curry with Chicken Cutlet)
Main Ingredients: Onion, Potato, Carrot, Oil, Curry, Water, Cooked Rice
If you want to add a bit of crunch to your Japanese curry, then katsu curry is the way to go. This dish combines the classic chicken curry with a crispy chicken cutlet on top. To make this dish, you will need to bread and fry the chicken cutlet separately before placing it on top of the curry. It may take a bit more effort, but the end result is well worth it. The combination of the crispy cutlet and the creamy curry sauce is simply irresistible.
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Japanese Curry from Scratch
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Salt, Black Pepper, Oil, Garlic
While Japanese curry mixes are readily available in most grocery stores, making it from scratch is not as difficult as you may think. In fact, making your own curry sauce allows you to customize the flavors and make it as spicy or mild as you like. The key to a delicious homemade Japanese curry is to use a variety of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, along with a roux made with flour and butter. It may take a bit more time, but the end result is a rich and flavorful curry that will leave you wanting more.
Japanese curry is traditionally served over a bed of steamed rice, but have you ever thought of making curry-flavored rice? By cooking your rice with some Japanese curry mix, you can easily infuse the flavors of the curry into the rice. This is a great option for those who want a quick and easy meal without compromising on taste. Top it off with some stir-fried vegetables and protein of your choice, and you have a complete and delicious meal.
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Japanese Curry Udon
Main Ingredients: Carrot, Kamaboko, Udon, Vegetable Oil, Ground Pork
If you're a fan of udon noodles, then you'll love this Japanese curry udon recipe. The thick and chewy noodles soak up the curry sauce, making every bite a burst of flavor. This dish is perfect for cold and rainy days when you want something warm and comforting. You can use any vegetables and protein of your choice, making it a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking.
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Vegan Japanese Curry
Main Ingredients: Onion, Carrots, Potato, Olive Oil, Broth, Mild Curry
For our vegan friends, don't worry, we haven't forgotten about you. You can still enjoy the delicious flavors of Japanese curry by substituting the meat with tofu or a variety of vegetables. The key to a flavorful vegan curry is in the spices and seasonings, so don't be afraid to experiment. This dish is not only healthy, but it also tastes amazing and is perfect for those following a plant-based diet.
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Tonkatsu Curry (Japanese Curry with Pork Cutlet)
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, White Onion, Medium Potato, Medium Carrot
If you're a fan of pork, then you'll love this variation of Japanese curry. Instead of chicken, this recipe uses tender and juicy pork cutlets that are breaded and fried to perfection. The crispy and flavorful pork cutlet pairs perfectly with the creamy and savory curry sauce. This is a must-try for all pork lovers out there.
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Katsu Curry (Japanese Curry Rice with Chicken Cutlet)
Main Ingredients: Onion, Potato, Carrot, Oil, Curry, Water, Cooked Rice
Another way to enjoy katsu curry is by serving it as a donburi or rice bowl. This dish includes a bed of rice topped with the classic chicken curry and a crispy chicken cutlet on top. It's a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner. You can also add some pickled vegetables or a soft-boiled egg for added flavor and texture.
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Tofu Katsu with Japanese Curry
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Egg, Panko Breadcrumbs
If you're looking for a vegetarian version of katsu curry, then this is the recipe for you. Instead of using chicken or pork, this dish uses tofu that is breaded and fried until golden and crispy. The tofu adds a nice texture to the dish while still soaking up the flavors of the curry sauce. Serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own as a snack or appetizer.
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Japanese Curry Fried Rice with Chicken Katsu
Main Ingredients: Curry Roux, Curry Powder, Cocoa Powder, Cooked Rice
Have some leftover rice and katsu curry? Why not combine them and make a delicious fried rice dish? This recipe takes the classic chicken katsu curry and turns it into a flavorful fried rice that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. The crispy chicken adds a nice crunch to the dish, while the curry sauce adds a burst of flavor.
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Home-made Fukujinzuke (Pickled Vegetables for Japanese...
Main Ingredients: Daikon, Lotus Root, Cucumber, Eggplant, Ginger, Salt
No Japanese curry is complete without some pickled vegetables on the side. Fukujinzuke is a traditional Japanese pickle made with a variety of vegetables such as radish, cucumber, and eggplant. It adds a nice tangy and crunchy element to the curry, balancing out the richness of the sauce. You can easily make it at home and store it in the fridge for future use.
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Menchi Katsu Kare/ Hamburger Croquette with Japanese...
Main Ingredients: Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Apple, Unsalted Butter, Curry
Looking for a unique and delicious way to enjoy Japanese curry? Try this Menchi Katsu Kare recipe, which combines a hamburger croquette with the classic curry sauce. The croquette is filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, and spices, then breaded and fried until golden and crispy. It adds an unexpected twist to the traditional curry and is sure to impress your taste buds.
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Crispy Tofu Japanese Curry
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Brown Onion, Fresh Ginger, Garlic
If you're a fan of crispy tofu, then you'll love this recipe for crispy tofu Japanese curry. The tofu is lightly coated in cornstarch and pan-fried until golden and crispy. It is then added to the curry sauce, making it a crunchy and flavorful addition to the dish. Serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own as a protein-packed meal.
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Japanese Curry Bento
Main Ingredients: Beef, Yellow Onion, Carrots, Potatoes, Oil, Pepper
Bento boxes are a popular lunch option in Japan, and Japanese curry is a common filling for them. This recipe combines the classic chicken curry with a variety of side dishes such as tamagoyaki (rolled omelet), pickled vegetables, and edamame. It's a well-balanced and delicious meal that you can easily pack and take with you to work or school.
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Japanese Curry Soba Tsukemen
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Soba Noodles, Salad, Curry Sauce
Soba tsukemen is a type of Japanese noodle dish where the noodles are served separately from the broth, and you dip the noodles into the broth before eating. This recipe takes it up a notch by using Japanese curry as the dipping sauce for the noodles. It's a unique and flavorful twist on the traditional soba tsukemen and is perfect for curry lovers.
Who said you can't have Japanese curry for breakfast? These Japanese-style pancakes are made with a pancake batter infused with Japanese curry spices, giving them a unique and delicious flavor. They can be served with a drizzle of curry sauce on top or on the side for dipping. It's a fun and creative way to enjoy Japanese curry in a different form.
Okonomiyaki, also known as Japanese savory pancakes, is a popular street food in Japan. It's made with a batter of flour, eggs, and cabbage, along with your choice of toppings such as meat, seafood, or vegetables. This recipe adds a twist to the traditional okonomiyaki by incorporating Japanese curry into the batter, giving it a rich and unique flavor. Serve it with some pickled ginger and okonomiyaki sauce for a complete and delicious meal.
For those with a sweet tooth, we haven't forgotten about you. This Japanese cotton cheesecake recipe is a must-try for all dessert lovers. The cake is light and fluffy, with a delicate and creamy texture. The addition of Japanese curry may seem unusual, but it adds a subtle and unexpected flavor to the cake. Give it a try and see for yourself!
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Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast Fillets, All Purpose Plain Flour, Eggs
Last but not least, we have another variation of katsu curry, this time with chicken. This recipe uses chicken breast that is breaded and fried until golden and crispy, then topped with a rich and savory curry sauce. Serve it over rice and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
The Importance of Curry Roux
One of the key components of Japanese curry is the roux, a mixture of flour and fat that serves as a thickening agent. It adds depth and richness to the dish, making it stand out from other curries. The roux is the foundation of any Japanese curry and getting it right is crucial for the perfect end result.
How to Make the Perfect Roux
The key to making a flavorful and velvety roux is to cook it low and slow. Start by melting butter in a pan over low heat, then add an equal amount of flour. Keep stirring continuously until the mixture turns golden brown, taking care not to burn it. This process can take up to 30 minutes, but the end result is worth the effort. You can also add chopped onions to the roux for added flavor.
Customizing Your Curry
One of the best things about Japanese curry is its versatility. You can add a variety of ingredients to make it your own. Popular additions include potatoes, carrots, onions, chicken, beef, and pork. You can also add apples or honey for a touch of sweetness. The key is to choose ingredients that complement each other and balance out the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Japanese curry is typically served over a bed of fluffy white rice, but you can also enjoy it with udon noodles or bread. For added texture and crunch, top it with pickle radish or fried onions. You can also garnish it with green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and added flavor.
In conclusion, the best Japanese curry recipe is one that starts with a flavorful and well-cooked roux, uses quality ingredients, and allows for customization to suit your taste. With these tips and tricks, you can easily recreate this beloved dish in the comfort of your own home. So, put on your apron and get ready to impress your taste buds with this delicious and comforting Japanese curry.