16 Japanese Konbini Croquette Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
In Japan, convenience stores, or konbini, are a staple in the daily lives of locals. These one-stop shops offer a variety of goods, from snacks and drinks to household items and even freshly prepared meals. One of the most beloved and popular konbini foods is the croquette. These crispy and savory snacks are a go-to for many Japanese people, and with this easy recipe, you can recreate them in the comfort of your own home.
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Potatoes, Oyster Sauce, Vegetable Oil
Korokke, or Japanese potato croquettes, are a popular dish that can be found in almost every Japanese household. These crispy, golden-brown patties are made from mashed potatoes, ground meat, and a variety of vegetables. They are then coated in panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried to perfection. The end result is a crunchy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior that will have you craving more.
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Japanese Potato Salad Croquettes (Korokke)
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Carrots, Cucumbers, Green Onions, Red Onions
A variation of the classic korokke, Japanese potato salad croquettes are a must-try for any potato lover. This dish combines creamy mashed potatoes with crunchy vegetables, such as carrots and onions, to create a unique and delicious croquette. The addition of Japanese mayo and mustard gives these croquettes a tangy and spicy kick that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
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Korokke (Japanese Potato and Ground Meat Croquettes)
Main Ingredients: Starchy Potatoes, Oil, Pork Mince, Small Onion, Pepper
If you're looking for a heartier version of korokke, try adding ground meat to the mix. This variation of the classic dish combines mashed potatoes with ground meat, usually beef or pork, to create a more substantial croquette. The meat adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that will make these croquettes a favorite among meat lovers.
Japanese curry is a staple dish in Japan and is loved by people all over the world. Unlike Indian or Thai curries, Japanese curry has a thicker consistency and is milder in flavor. It is made with a roux, which is a mixture of flour, oil, and spices, and is then combined with vegetables and meat. The end result is a rich and flavorful curry that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
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Japanese Curry from Scratch
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Salt, Black Pepper, Oil, Garlic
While pre-made curry roux is available in most grocery stores, making Japanese curry from scratch is a rewarding experience. It allows you to customize the flavors and spice levels to your liking and gives you a sense of accomplishment when you take that first bite. Plus, the aromas of homemade curry filling your kitchen will make your mouth water in anticipation.
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Katsu Curry (Japanese Curry with Chicken Cutlet)
Main Ingredients: Onion, Potato, Carrot, Oil, Curry, Water, Cooked Rice
Katsu curry is a popular variation of Japanese curry that combines the rich and savory flavors of curry with a crispy and tender chicken cutlet. The chicken is breaded and fried to perfection, then served on top of a bed of rice and smothered in curry sauce. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Nikujaga, or Japanese beef stew, is a comfort food that is loved by many in Japan. This hearty dish combines thinly sliced beef with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a sweet and savory broth. The meat becomes tender and flavorful from being simmered in the broth, and the vegetables absorb all the delicious flavors. This dish is perfect for a cold, rainy day.
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Potato Croquettes - Japanese Korokke ポテトコロッケ
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Beef Mince, Onion, Carrot, Olive Oil, Egg
Potato croquettes, or korokke, are a beloved snack in Japan. They are often sold in convenience stores and are a popular bento box item. These croquettes are made with mashed potatoes, ground meat, and vegetables, then coated in panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried. They are perfect for a quick and tasty snack on the go.
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Japanese Curry With Chicken
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Carrots, Onions, Red
Combining the flavors of Japanese curry with tender chunks of chicken is a match made in heaven. This dish is perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavors of Japanese curry but are looking for a lighter and healthier option. The chicken adds protein and makes this dish a complete meal.
Karaage, or Japanese fried chicken, is a must-try for any fried chicken lover. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before being coated in potato starch and fried to perfection. The result is juicy and flavorful chicken that will have you reaching for seconds.
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Vegan Japanese Curry
Main Ingredients: Onion, Carrots, Potato, Olive Oil, Broth, Mild Curry
For those following a vegan diet, don't worry, there's a Japanese curry recipe for you too. This vegan version uses a vegetable-based roux and is filled with a variety of vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and onions. The end result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that will have you forgetting it's vegan.
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Creamy Japanese Potato Salad
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Cucumber, Carrot, Hard Boiled Eggs, Kewpie
Potato salad is a common side dish in Japan, and it has a unique twist compared to other variations. The Japanese version uses a creamy dressing made from Japanese mayo, rice vinegar, and mustard. The result is a tangy and slightly sweet potato salad that pairs perfectly with any Japanese dish.
Nikujaga, or Japanese beef stew, is a comfort food that is loved by many in Japan. This hearty dish combines thinly sliced beef with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a sweet and savory broth. The meat becomes tender and flavorful from being simmered in the broth, and the vegetables absorb all the delicious flavors. This dish is perfect for a cold, rainy day.
Similar to nikujaga, this Japanese beef and potato stew is a heartier version that is perfect for a filling dinner. The beef is slow-cooked in a flavorful broth with potatoes and other vegetables, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. This stew is best served over a bed of rice to soak up all the delicious juices.
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Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Panko Breadcrumbs, Flour, Egg, Salt
If you love both katsu and curry, why not combine them into one delicious dish? Japanese chicken katsu curry does just that, with a crispy chicken cutlet served on top of a bed of rice and covered in a rich and flavorful curry sauce. It's the perfect combination of textures and flavors that will have you wanting more.
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Karaage Chicken (Japanese fried chicken)
Main Ingredients: Boneless Chicken Thigh, Potato, Plain Flour, Lemon
Karaage, or Japanese fried chicken, is a must-try for any fried chicken lover. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before being coated in potato starch and fried to perfection. The result is juicy and flavorful chicken that will have you reaching for seconds.
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Katsu Curry (Japanese Curry Rice with Chicken Cutlet)
Main Ingredients: Onion, Potato, Carrot, Oil, Curry, Water, Cooked Rice
Katsu curry is a popular variation of Japanese curry that combines the rich and savory flavors of curry with a crispy and tender chicken cutlet. The chicken is breaded and fried to perfection, then served on top of a bed of rice and smothered in curry sauce. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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Tofu Katsu with Japanese Curry
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Egg, Panko Breadcrumbs
For a vegetarian option, try making tofu katsu with Japanese curry. The tofu is lightly breaded and fried to create a crispy exterior, then served on top of a bed of rice and covered in a flavorful curry sauce. This dish is packed with protein and is a delicious alternative to the traditional chicken katsu curry.
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Okonomiyaki (Savory Japanese Pancakes)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Salt, Sugar, Baking Powder, Baking Potato
Okonomiyaki is a popular street food in Japan that is often described as a savory pancake. The base is made from a batter consisting of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage, and then filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, seafood, and vegetables. Topped with a generous drizzle of okonomiyaki sauce and Japanese mayo, this dish is a must-try for any food lover.
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Easy Japanese Steamed Pork Buns (Nikuman)
Main Ingredients: Biscuits, Vegetable Oil, Ground Pork, Shiitake
Nikuman, or Japanese steamed pork buns, are a popular snack in Japan that can be found in convenience stores and street stalls. These fluffy buns are filled with a savory pork filling and steamed to perfection. They are perfect for a quick snack or a light lunch on the go.
The Versatile and Delicious Konbini Croquette
What is a Croquette?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's first understand what a croquette is. Originating from France, croquettes are small, deep-fried balls or cylinders made with a mixture of mashed potatoes, meat, seafood, or vegetables. They are a popular snack and appetizer all over the world, and Japan has put its own unique twist on them.
The Konbini Croquette
In Japan, the croquette can be found in almost every konbini. It is a convenient and tasty option for those on-the-go, and it has become a staple in Japanese cuisine. The konbini croquette usually consists of a creamy and flavorful mashed potato filling with a crispy breadcrumb coating. It can be filled with various ingredients, such as beef, chicken, and seafood, making it a versatile and satisfying snack.
The Recipe
Now, let's get to the recipe so you can create your own konbini croquettes at home. Mashed potatoes are the star of this dish, so make sure to use high-quality potatoes for the best result. Boil and mash the potatoes, and then mix in your desired ingredients, such as minced meat, onions, and green peas. Season with soy sauce and Japanese curry powder for that distinct Japanese flavor.
Next, shape the mixture into small oval or round balls and coat them with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Deep fry until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Serve with tonkatsu sauce or mayonnaise for dipping, and enjoy your homemade konbini croquettes!
Customize Your Croquette
The great thing about this recipe is that you can customize it to your liking. If you're a vegetarian, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables. You can also experiment with different seasonings and fillings, such as shrimp, corn, or cheese. The possibilities are endless, and you can create your own unique konbini croquette.
In conclusion, the konbini croquette is a delicious and convenient snack that you can easily make at home. With its crispy exterior and creamy filling, it's no wonder why it's a favorite among Japanese people. So the next time you're craving a tasty and easy-to-make snack, give this recipe a try and experience the flavors of a Japanese konbini in your own kitchen.
