The Art of Japanese Curry: A Simple and Flavorful Recipe

Japanese curry, with its comforting and rich flavor profile, has become a beloved dish worldwide. Making it at home is not only easy but also allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking. In this guide, we’ll explore how to create a delicious Japanese curry using store-bought curry blocks, potatoes, carrots, onions, and dashi.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups dashi (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 to 2 blocks of Japanese curry roux (according to taste and spice level)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Peel and dice the potatoes.
• Peel and slice the carrots.
• Finely chop the onion.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large pot or deep pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Carrots

• Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot.
• Continue to sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables start to brown slightly.

Step 4: Pour in Dashi

• Once the vegetables are lightly browned, pour in the dashi.
• Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Incorporate Curry Blocks

• Break the Japanese curry roux blocks into smaller pieces and add them to the pot.
• Stir continuously until the curry blocks dissolve completely.

Step 6: Simmer and Season

• Allow the curry to simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve over Rice

• Once the curry has thickened, it’s ready to be served.
• Spoon the Japanese curry over a bowl of steamed rice.

Tips and Variations:

• Customize with Proteins: Enhance your curry by adding proteins like chicken, beef, or tofu.
• Add Umami with Extras: Boost the umami flavor by including ingredients like mushrooms or a tablespoon of soy sauce.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding chili powder or Japanese curry powder for an extra kick.
• Leftover Magic: Japanese curry tastes even better the next day. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat for a quick and flavorful meal.

Now, savor the aroma and taste of your homemade Japanese curry. With a perfect blend of spices and the heartiness of vegetables, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic Japanese comfort food!