Do you know Japanese Curry?

What is Japanese curry?

Japanese curry, also known as kare raisu, is a popular dish in Japan and worldwide. While curry is often associated with Indian cuisine, this Japanese version brings a unique and delicious touch to this blend of spices, vegetables, and stewed meats. In this article, we will introduce you to several recipes from traditional to more adventurous and modern versions of Japanese curry. You will also learn about the essential ingredients that make this dish so delicious and various ways to enjoy it. Are you ready to explore the world of Japanese curry?

The Key Ingredients in Japanese Curry

Japanese curry is typically made up of a handful of key ingredients, which together create a flavorful, comforting dish. Here are the essential ingredients you'll find in most Japanese curry recipes:

Curry Roux

The curry roux is the main ingredient that gives Japanese curry its color, texture, and distinctive taste. Curry roux can be bought as a ready-made product in Asian grocery stores, or you can make it yourself by combining flour, butter, and spices (such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili) to form a thick paste. The curry roux is added near the end of cooking time, thickening the sauce and giving it a deep, rich flavor.

Vegetables

Vegetables are an essential element of Japanese curry, providing a variety of textures and flavors to the dish. The vegetables commonly used in this type of curry include onions, carrots, potatoes, and peppers. You can also add other seasonal vegetables to vary the flavors and nutrients.

Meat

Japanese curry can be made with various kinds of meat such as chicken, beef, or pork. The meat is cut into pieces and simmered with the vegetables and sauce until tender and tasty. You can also opt for a vegetarian version by using tofu or plant-based proteins instead of meat.

Rice

Rice is a crucial part of Japanese curry as it serves as the base for the dish and allows for the absorption of the delicious sauce. Short-grain Japanese rice is typically used due to its soft and sticky texture that pairs nicely with the thick curry sauce.

Classic Japanese Chicken Curry Recipe

Here’s a simple and tasty chicken Japanese curry recipe you can prepare at home:

Ingredients:

500 g chicken (cut into cubes)
2 onions (sliced)
2 carrots (cut into slices)
2 potatoes (cut into chunks)
1 pepper (cut into chunks)
1 liter of water
100 g of Japanese curry roux
2 tablespoons of oil
cooked rice for serving

Preparation:

In a large pot, heat the oil and sauté the onions until they turn translucent.
Add the chicken and brown it on all sides.
Add the vegetables to the pot and mix well with the chicken and onions.
Pour water into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the Japanese curry roux and continue stirring until it is entirely dissolved in the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional five minutes to thicken the sauce.
Serve the hot curry over the cooked rice.

Vegetarian Japanese curry recipe

If you prefer a meatless dish, here is a vegetarian Japanese curry recipe that will delight your tastebuds:

Ingredients:

200 g of firm tofu (cut into chunks)
2 onions (sliced)
2 carrots (cut into slices)
2 potatoes (cut into chunks)
1 red bell pepper (cut into chunks)
1 liter of water
100 g of Japanese curry roux
2 tablespoons of oil
cooked rice for serving

Preparation:

Follow the same steps as for the chicken curry recipe but replace the chicken with tofu. Be careful not to break the tofu chunks while cooking.

Modern Variations of Japanese Curry

Japanese curry is a dish that lends itself to many variations and adaptations. Here are a few ideas to modernize and personalize your Japanese curry:

Add coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy, exotic touch.
Use roasted vegetables instead of stewed ones for a different texture and flavor.
Prepare spicy Japanese curry by adding chili powder or fresh chopped chilies to the sauce.
Try adding fruits, like apples or raisins, for a sweet and tangy touch.
Swap rice with udon noodles or soba noodles for a Japanese pasta curry version.

Regardless of the Japanese curry recipe you choose, you're sure to enjoy this flavorful and comforting dish. So, don't hesitate to experiment in the kitchen and share your creations with your loved ones.

Different Regional Versions of Japanese Curry

Japanese curry is a dish that varies from one region to another, each region having its own interpretation and local ingredients. Here are a few of the most popular regional versions of Japanese curry:

Katsu Curry

Katsu curry is a variation of Japanese curry originating from the Kansai region. It consists of a breaded and fried meat, typically pork, called tonkatsu, served with rice and drenched in curry sauce. This version of Japanese curry is particularly appreciated for its contrast between the crispy meat and the creamy curry sauce.

Hokkaido Curry

The Hokkaido region, located in the north of Japan, is known for its uniquely flavored Japanese curry. This curry version is often made with milk and garam masala, an Indian spice mix, for a creamier and more spiced sauce. Local vegetables, such as potatoes, onions, and carrots, are also used to give the dish a distinct flavor.

Okinawa Curry

Okinawa curry is a variation of Japanese curry characterized by the use of rafute, pork meat simmered in soy sauce and sugar. This curry recipe also uses a curry powder specific to the Okinawa region, which is distinguished by its slightly sweet and spicy flavor. Okinawa curry is typically served with plain rice and topped with local vegetables, like goya (bitter cucumbers) and daikon (white radishes).

Health Benefits of Japanese Curry

Japanese curry is not only delicious, but it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are a few benefits that you can derive from this tasty dish:

Antioxidants

The vegetables used in Japanese curry, such as carrots, onions, and peppers, are rich in antioxidants that help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. Also, the spices present in the curry powder like turmeric and cumin have antioxidant properties as well.

Digestion

The spices contained in Japanese curry can also help improve digestion. For instance, turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can assist in relieving digestive disorders, while cumin can help reduce bloating and gas.

Satiety

Japanese curry is a fiber and protein-rich dish, thanks to the vegetables and meat or tofu it contains. These nutrients contribute to satiety and can aid in preventing cravings and snacking between meals.

Conclusion

Japanese curry is a versatile and delicious dish that deserves to be discovered. From the key ingredients such as curry roux and vegetables to the various regional variations like katsu curry and Okinawa curry, there's something to satisfy the most demanding palates. Moreover, the health benefits of Japanese curry make it a healthy and nourishing choice for meals. Therefore, don't hesitate to explore the different Japanese curry recipes and incorporate them into your international cuisine.

FAQ

What is Japanese curry?

Japanese curry is a Japan-adapted version of the British dish "curry" which was introduced to Japan in the 1800s. The dish consists of vegetables, meat, a blend of curry paste and milk, all served on a bed of rice.

What are the main ingredients in Japanese curry?

The main ingredients in Japanese curry are vegetables, meat (usually pork or beef), herbs and spices, a mix of curry paste and milk, and rice. The most commonly used vegetables include carrots, leek celery, and sweet potato.

How to prepare Japanese curry?

To make Japanese curry, start by frying the meat (in cubes) in a pan with a little oil. Then add the chosen vegetables and sauté them for an additional few minutes. Once done, add the curry paste and milk mixture and herbs and spices. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, then serve it over a bed of rice.

Is Japanese curry healthy?

Yes, Japanese curry is considered relatively healthy. It contains lean protein (from the meat) as well as plenty of nutrient-rich vegetables. Plus, it also contains herbs and spices that can have health-boosting effects.

What's the difference between Indian curry and Japanese curry?

The main difference between Indian and Japanese curry lies in its flavor; the latter is milder in taste. It contains less amount of strong herbs and spices compared to Indian curries. In addition, it's typically served with rice while Indian curries usually come with naan or roti.