Japanese Chicken Curry
Try this Japanese Chicken Curry recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Japanese Chicken Curry recipe, or contribute your own.
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup flour
- fresh ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup peas
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 2 large onions sliced thin
- 2 pounds chicken thighs cleaned and cut into chunks
- 2 carrots cut into chunks
- 2 large potatoes cut into large chunks
- 1 small apple peeled cored and pureed (i use a box grater)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (use less if you use regular salt)
- 2 tablespoons garam masala (or curry powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (add less if you want it mild or mo
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (or tomato paste)
- 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce or tonkatsu sauce
- Carbohydrate 8.02819372861126 g
- Cholesterol 15.2515625065405 mg
- Fat 6.93853558291457 g
- Fiber 0.625985031171489 g
- Protein 0.722134054509144 g
- Saturated Fat 3.73633788337296 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (336g)
- Sodium 48.1014444672939 mg
- Sugar 7.40220869743977 g
- Trans Fat 0.429881936582197 g
- Calories 95 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat and add the onions.
- Sauté the onions with a pinch of salt until they are golden brown and caramelized. It will take about 30 minutes of occasional stirring.
- Remove the onions to a bowl and set aside.
- Turn up the heat to high, add the chicken and stir-fry until lightly browned on all sides.
- Return the onions to the pan and add the carrots and the water, then bring to a boil.
- Skim off any foam or oil that accumulates at the surface then lower heat to medium.
- Add the potatoes, puréed apple, salt, and garam masala and simmer for about 30 minutes or until you can pass a fork through the carrots and potatoes and the meat is tender.
- While the curry is cooking, in a small skillet melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- When the butter bubbles, add the flour and garam masala, stirring until you have a thick paste.
- Add the cayenne pepper and some fresh ground black pepper and incorporate into the roux.
- Add the ketchup and Worcestershire (or tonkatsu) sauce and combine.
- Continue to cook until the paste starts crumbling.
- Remove from heat and set aside until the meat and veggies are ready.
- When the vegetables are tender, ladle about 2 cups of liquid into the roux then whisk until it's smooth.
- Pour this mixture back into the other pot and gently stir until thickened.
- Add the peas and heat through.
- Serve over rice
A Busy Mom's Take on Authentic Japanese Flavors
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between school pick-ups, PTA meetings, and deadlines at the office, finding time for anything beyond the basic necessities feels like a luxury. But I've always believed that nourishing meals are essential, not just for physical health, but for mental well-being too. That's why I'm always on the hunt for recipes that are both delicious and manageable, and this Japanese Chicken Curry has become a true lifesaver.
I stumbled upon this recipe while browsing online (no specific site, just general searching) and was immediately drawn to the vibrant image and the promise of comforting, flavorful food. I wasn't expecting it to be as easy as it turned out to be! The prep work, while slightly involved, can easily be done in advance – chopping vegetables on a Sunday afternoon sets me up for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. The best part? This recipe is incredibly flexible. I often adjust the spices depending on what I have on hand or my family's preferences. Sometimes I add a touch more cayenne for a little kick, other times I leave it out entirely for the kids.
The beautiful thing about this curry is its versatility. One evening, it's a comforting family dinner served with fluffy rice. Another night, I might pack leftovers for my lunch, knowing it’ll be just as satisfying as the day before. I have even used the leftovers to add some zest to my chicken salad and added a unique twist to regular sandwiches. It's become a staple in my weekly meal rotation, a testament to its ease of preparation and satisfying results.
Beyond the practical aspects, this curry also brings a sense of calm to our busy evenings. The aroma that fills the kitchen as it simmers is unbelievably comforting, instantly transforming the atmosphere from hectic to homely. It's a small detail, but it makes a world of difference. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a small act of self-care in the middle of a chaotic week. It's a way to nourish not just my family, but also my soul.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
While the recipe itself is straightforward, the quality of the ingredients truly elevates the final dish. I always opt for free-range chicken thighs for their superior flavor and texture. The carrots and potatoes I use are often from our local farmer's market – supporting local businesses feels good, and the freshness of the produce is undeniable. And the puréed apple? It might seem unconventional, but it adds a surprising depth of sweetness and richness that complements the savory spices beautifully. It's an easy way to add a little sweetness without resorting to excessive sugar.
Don't be intimidated by the long list of spices. Garam masala is readily available in most supermarkets, but feel free to experiment with other spice blends or curry powders to create your own unique flavor profile. The beauty of cooking is in the creative freedom! Remember, small adjustments can make a big difference. The level of spiciness can easily be adapted by adding more or less cayenne. It's a recipe that grows with you, adapting to your ever-changing tastes and preferences.
More Than Just a Meal: A Culinary Journey
This Japanese Chicken Curry represents more than just a delicious meal. It represents a journey—a fusion of flavors and cultures that somehow ended up on my kitchen table. It’s a testament to the fact that even amidst the chaos of daily life, moments of simple pleasure and culinary exploration are essential. It's about finding joy in creating something nourishing and delicious, even on the busiest of days. It's a recipe that speaks to my love of simple, satisfying home-cooked meals and how even a small bit of intentionality in the kitchen can bring a sense of peace to a busy day.
And finally, a reminder to all busy individuals: Make time for yourself. Even small acts of self-care, like preparing a comforting meal, can make a significant difference in your overall well-being. You deserve it.
