19 Recipe For Japanese Curry From Scratch Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
Japanese curry is a beloved dish that has gained popularity all over the world. It is a hearty and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. While many may opt for using store-bought curry roux, there is something special about making it from scratch. Not only does it allow for more control over the flavors and ingredients, but it also adds a sense of satisfaction in creating a dish from start to finish. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make Japanese curry from scratch, so you can impress your family and friends with your homemade creation.
If you're a fan of Japanese cuisine, then you've probably heard of Japanese curry. This popular dish has a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. The good news is, you don't have to travel to Japan to enjoy a delicious bowl of Japanese curry. With the right ingredients and a little bit of know-how, you can make your own homemade Japanese curry that will rival any restaurant's version.
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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 Japanese curry with chicken. This dish is a staple in many Japanese households and is often served with rice, vegetables, and a variety of toppings. The key to making the perfect Japanese chicken curry is to use a high-quality curry roux, which is a blend of spices and seasonings that gives the dish its iconic flavor.
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Japanese Curry from Scratch
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Salt, Black Pepper, Oil, Garlic
If you're feeling adventurous, you can try making your own Japanese curry from scratch. While it may seem daunting, making your own curry roux and blending your own spices can be a fun and rewarding experience. Plus, you can customize the flavors to your liking and create a truly unique dish that will impress your friends and family.
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Katsu Curry (Japanese Curry with Chicken Cutlet)
Main Ingredients: Onion, Potato, Carrot, Oil, Curry, Water, Cooked Rice
Another popular variation of Japanese curry is Katsu curry, which is a dish that combines Japanese curry rice with a chicken cutlet. The combination of the crispy, breaded cutlet and the rich, flavorful curry is a match made in heaven. This dish is a favorite among children and adults alike and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
For a simple and delicious meal, you can't go wrong with homemade Japanese curry rice. This dish is easy to make and can be customized to your preferences. You can add your favorite vegetables, protein, and toppings to make it your own. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you have in your fridge.
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Japanese Curry Udon
Main Ingredients: Carrot, Kamaboko, Udon, Vegetable Oil, Ground Pork
If you're a fan of noodles, then you'll love Japanese curry udon. This dish combines thick, chewy udon noodles with a rich and flavorful curry sauce. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cold day or when you're craving something warm and comforting.
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Vegan Japanese Curry
Main Ingredients: Onion, Carrots, Potato, Olive Oil, Broth, Mild Curry
For our vegan friends, there's no need to miss out on the deliciousness of Japanese curry. You can make a vegan Japanese curry by using vegetable broth and substituting the meat with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. You can still enjoy all the flavors of Japanese curry without any animal products.
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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 pork lover, then you have to try tonkatsu curry. This dish combines Japanese curry rice with a crispy and juicy pork cutlet. The combination of the tender meat and the flavorful curry is a match made in heaven. And the best part? It's easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients.
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Katsu Curry (Japanese Curry Rice with Chicken Cutlet)
Main Ingredients: Onion, Potato, Carrot, Oil, Curry, Water, Cooked Rice
We couldn't talk about Japanese curry without mentioning katsu curry rice again. This dish is a staple in many Japanese households and is a go-to meal for busy weeknights. With the addition of a chicken cutlet, this dish becomes even more filling and satisfying. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover curry or cutlets from previous meals.
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Tofu Katsu with Japanese Curry
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Egg, Panko Breadcrumbs
For a vegetarian twist on katsu curry, you can substitute the meat with tofu katsu. This dish is just as delicious as its meat counterpart and adds a unique texture to the dish. The tofu is breaded and fried, then smothered in a rich and flavorful Japanese curry sauce. It's a must-try for any tofu lovers.
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Japanese Curry Fried Rice with Chicken Katsu
Main Ingredients: Curry Roux, Curry Powder, Cocoa Powder, Cooked Rice
If you have any leftover Japanese curry and chicken katsu, why not combine them to make a delicious Japanese curry fried rice? This dish is a great way to use up any leftovers from previous meals and creates a whole new dish that is just as delicious as the original. The crispy katsu adds a nice crunch to the fried rice, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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Home-made Fukujinzuke (Pickled Vegetables for Japanese...
Main Ingredients: Daikon, Lotus Root, Cucumber, Eggplant, Ginger, Salt
No Japanese curry meal is complete without a side of fukujinzuke, which is a type of pickled vegetables that are often served with curry. You can make your own homemade fukujinzuke with just a few simple ingredients, and it will take your Japanese curry to the next level. The tangy and crunchy pickles add a nice contrast to the rich and savory curry.
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Menchi Katsu Kare/ Hamburger Croquette with Japanese...
Main Ingredients: Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Apple, Unsalted Butter, Curry
Another popular variation of katsu curry is menchi katsu kare, which is a hamburger croquette smothered in Japanese curry. This dish is perfect for those who want a little extra protein in their curry, and the croquette adds a nice texture and flavor to the dish. You can make your own croquettes at home or use store-bought ones for a quick and easy meal.
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Crispy Tofu Japanese Curry
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Brown Onion, Fresh Ginger, Garlic
If you're a fan of tofu, you can make a crispy tofu Japanese curry by frying the tofu before adding it to the curry. This adds a nice crunch to the dish and makes the tofu more flavorful. You can also experiment with different types of tofu, such as firm or extra-firm, to see which one you prefer in your curry.
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Japanese Curry Bento
Main Ingredients: Beef, Yellow Onion, Carrots, Potatoes, Oil, Pepper
For a fun and convenient lunch option, you can make a Japanese curry bento. Bento boxes are popular in Japan and often contain a variety of dishes in one container. You can make a simple bento by packing some Japanese curry rice, vegetables, and protein in one box for a tasty and well-balanced meal.
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Japanese Curry Soba Tsukemen
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Soba Noodles, Salad, Curry Sauce
If you're a fan of noodles, then you'll love Japanese curry soba tsukemen. This dish is similar to Japanese curry udon, but instead of the curry sauce being mixed with the noodles, it is served as a dipping sauce. This adds a unique twist to the dish and is a fun way to enjoy Japanese curry.
If you're in the mood for something sweet, you can try making Japanese style pancakes with a touch of curry powder. This may sound strange, but the curry powder adds a subtle and interesting flavor to the pancakes. You can serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup or top them with some fresh fruit for a delicious and unique breakfast or dessert.
Another popular dish in Japan is okonomiyaki, which is a type of savory pancake filled with various ingredients. You can make a Japanese curry okonomiyaki by adding some curry powder to the batter and filling it with your favorite vegetables and protein. It's a fun and delicious way to incorporate Japanese curry into another dish.
For a unique and delicious dessert, you can try making a Japanese 'cotton' cheesecake with a touch of curry powder. This may sound unconventional, but the curry powder adds a nice depth of flavor to the cheesecake and pairs well with the creaminess of the cake. It's a dessert that will definitely surprise and impress your friends and family.
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Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast Fillets, All Purpose Plain Flour, Eggs
Lastly, we can't forget the classic Japanese chicken katsu curry. This dish is a favorite among many, and for good reason. It's simple, delicious, and customizable to your liking. You can add your favorite toppings, such as pickled ginger or scallions, to make it your own. Plus, it's a dish that will always bring comfort and satisfaction.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients. The base of Japanese curry is a roux, which is a mixture of flour and fat. For a vegetarian option, you can use vegetable oil or butter, while traditional recipes call for butter or lard. Along with the roux, you will need onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and your choice of protein such as beef, chicken, or tofu. Spices such as curry powder, garam masala, and red chili flakes will add depth and heat to the dish. Make sure to have some soy sauce and sugar on hand to balance out the flavors.
Tips for Choosing Ingredients
When it comes to vegetables, feel free to add your own twist to the recipe. You can use sweet potatoes, mushrooms, or any other vegetable that you enjoy. For the protein, opt for a tender cut of beef or chicken, or for a vegetarian option, tofu works well. Make sure to use a good quality curry powder and garam masala for the best flavor. You can also add in some flavorful toppings like pickled red ginger or hard-boiled eggs to make your Japanese curry even more delicious.
Creating the Roux
The first step in making Japanese curry from scratch is creating the roux. In a pan, melt the butter or oil over medium heat and add in the flour. Stir continuously until the mixture turns a light brown color. This process is called toasting and it helps develop the flavor of the roux. Once the roux has reached the desired color, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables and Protein
In a separate pot, sauté the onions and garlic until they become translucent. Then, add in the carrots and cook for a few minutes before adding in the protein of your choice. Cook until the protein is lightly browned, then add in the potatoes. Pour in some water or broth to cover the vegetables and bring it to a boil.
Adding the Roux and Spices
Once the vegetables are cooked, add in the roux, curry powder, garam masala, and red chili flakes. Stir until the roux is completely dissolved and the spices are well incorporated. Allow the curry to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Finally, add in a splash of soy sauce and a spoonful of sugar to balance out the flavors.
In conclusion, making Japanese curry from scratch may seem like a daunting task, but with the right ingredients and a little patience, it can be a rewarding experience. With this recipe, you can create a flavorful and authentic Japanese curry that will impress anyone who tries it. So next time you're craving this comforting dish, skip the store-bought roux and try making it from scratch. Your taste buds will thank you.
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