Japanese curry on rice is a delightful dish that warms the soul and satisfies the hunger. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, Japanese curry on rice stands out as a versatile choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of spices and sweetness from the apple creates a unique taste that is both savory and satisfying.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, making this dish is hassle-free, perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe makes a large batch, making it ideal for leftovers or freezing for future meals.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out proteins or vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavor profile appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Japanese curry on rice efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Ladle
• Wooden chopsticks

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot ensures all ingredients fit comfortably while allowing for even cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps in chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping, keeping your workspace organized.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving portions of curry over rice without making a mess.
• Wooden chopsticks: Ideal for stirring and breaking down the curry roux without scratching your pot.

this recipe

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 2 onions (large)
• 2 carrots (medium)
• 3 potatoes (Yukon gold)
• 2 cloves garlic

Cooking Essentials

• 1 tbsp butter
• 5 cups water (or stock)

Protein

• 1 lb cubed beef (or other protein alternative)

Flavorings

• 8 oz Japanese curry roux
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 red apple (Fuji or Honeycrisp work great)

Rice

• 8 cups medium grain white rice (or your preferred rice type)

How to Make Japanese Curry on Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Chop vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions) into large chunks or slices (roughly 1-inch in size).
2. Mince garlic and grate apple.

Step 2: Soak the Potatoes

1. Soak potato chunks in a bowl of warm water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch.

Step 3: Prepare the Beef

1. Salt beef cubes and let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Sear the Beef

1. In a pot over medium heat, add 1 teaspoon of cooking oil.
2. Once heated, add beef cubes; sear for 2-3 minutes until browned on all sides before removing from pot.

Step 5: Sauté Onions

1. Add butter to the pot along with onions; sauté for about 8 minutes until caramelized.

Step 6: Add Remaining Vegetables

1. Add minced garlic; sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
2. Stir in potatoes and carrots, then add cooked beef back to the pot.

Step 7: Combine with Water

1. Pour in 5 cups of water to the pot.
2. Optional: Add grated apple, honey, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce; stir well.

Step 8: Simmer

1. Cover the pot and simmer on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 9: Skim Off Scum

1. Once boiling, skim off any scum from the top layer; continue cooking.

Step 10: Check Potatoes

1. Test doneness by piercing a potato with a wooden chopstick; it’s ready if it goes through easily.

Step 11: Add Curry Roux

1. Gradually add curry roux cubes to the pot by submerging them in water using a ladle.
2. Use chopsticks to slowly dissolve each cube.

Step 12: Thicken Curry

1. Simmer uncovered on medium-low heat while stirring frequently for about 15 minutes until thickened.

Step 13: Serve

1. Remove from heat and serve hot over bowls of rice—enjoy your homemade Japanese curry on rice!

How to Serve Japanese Curry on Rice

Serving Japanese curry on rice can be a delightful experience. This dish is versatile and can be complemented with various toppings and sides to enhance its flavor and presentation.

Toppings

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Fried Eggs: A sunny-side-up egg adds richness and a creamy texture that pairs well with the curry.
• Pickled Ginger: Add pickled ginger for a tangy contrast that brightens the overall taste of the dish.

Accompaniments

• Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono): Serve alongside pickles for crunch and a refreshing bite.
• Salad: A light cucumber or seaweed salad complements the warmth of the curry with its crispness.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or snap peas provide a nutritious side that balances the meal.

How to Perfect Japanese Curry on Rice

Perfecting your Japanese curry on rice involves paying attention to details. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Selecting fresh vegetables and high-quality meat can significantly improve flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: If your curry is too thick, add a bit more water or broth. For a thicker texture, let it simmer longer without the lid.
• Experiment with Spices: Adding spices like cumin or coriander can enhance depth and complexity in flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the curry to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving helps flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Japanese Curry on Rice

Complement your Japanese curry with these delicious side dishes. They add variety and balance to your meal.

1. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup makes for a comforting addition, providing umami flavors that pair well with curry.
2. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame makes for a healthy snack that offers protein and fiber.
3. Japanese Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds richness; consider including carrots and cucumbers for texture.
4. Seaweed Salad: This refreshing salad brings a hint of ocean flavor, adding an interesting contrast to the hearty curry.
5. Rice Balls (Onigiri): These portable rice balls can be filled with various ingredients, offering a fun way to enjoy leftover rice.
6. Cucumber Salad: A quick pickled cucumber salad adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the heaviness of the curry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Japanese Curry on Rice can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping ingredient prep – Failing to chop your vegetables uniformly can affect cooking time. Make sure all ingredients are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Not soaking potatoes – Not soaking potatoes can leave them starchy and gummy. Soak them in warm water for at least 15 minutes before cooking to achieve the right texture.
• Overcooking meat – Cooking beef too long can make it tough. Sear it just until browned and finish cooking it with the vegetables to keep it tender.
• Ignoring simmering time – Rushing the simmering step will prevent flavors from developing. Allow your curry to simmer for the full time to enhance its taste.
• Adding roux too fast – Adding all curry roux cubes at once can lead to lumps. Gradually add and dissolve each cube for a smooth consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the curry cool down before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Freezing Japanese Curry on Rice

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can last up to 3 months; label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Japanese Curry on Rice

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered in a baking dish for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Japanese Curry on Rice.

What is Japanese Curry on Rice?

Japanese Curry on Rice, also known as Kare Raisu, is a thick, hearty dish made with vegetables and protein simmered in a savory curry sauce served over rice.

Can I use different proteins for Japanese Curry on Rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute beef with chicken, lamb, turkey, or plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh for variety.

How spicy is Japanese Curry on Rice?

The spice level of Japanese curry varies by brand. Most are mild and flavorful, but you can spice it up by adding chili powder or fresh peppers if desired.

How do I customize my Japanese Curry on Rice?

Feel free to add different vegetables such as bell peppers or peas. You can also adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of apple or honey you include.

Can I make Japanese Curry on Rice vegan?

Yes! Simply replace animal proteins with plant-based options and ensure your curry roux is vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Japanese Curry on Rice is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily modify this recipe by changing the protein or adding more vegetables based on your preferences. Give it a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping!

Print

Japanese Curry on Rice

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Japanese Curry on Rice is a soul-warming dish that beautifully combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients, making it a favorite for family dinners or meal prepping. This comforting recipe features tender beef simmered with vegetables in a savory curry sauce, served atop fluffy rice. With its unique blend of sweetness from apples and spices, this dish is both satisfying and delightfully easy to prepare. Customize it by swapping proteins or adding your favorite veggies for a personal touch. Enjoy this cozy meal any night of the week!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large onions
• 2 medium carrots
• 3 Yukon gold potatoes
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 lb cubed beef (or chicken, lamb, turkey)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 5 cups water
• 8 oz Japanese curry roux
• 1 red apple (Fuji or Honeycrisp)
• 8 cups medium grain white rice

---

Instructions

1. Chop onions, carrots, and potatoes into large chunks; mince garlic and grate the apple.
2. Soak potato chunks in warm water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch.
3. Salt the beef cubes and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
4. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat; sear beef cubes for 2-3 minutes until browned, then remove.
5. Add butter and sauté onions for about 8 minutes until caramelized.
6. Stir in minced garlic, potatoes, carrots, and return beef to the pot.
7. Pour in water; optionally add grated apple, honey, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce.
8. Simmer covered on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes.
9. Skim off any scum; check potato doneness by piercing with a chopstick.
10. Gradually add curry roux cubes until dissolved; simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes until thickened.
11. Serve hot over rice.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers or peas. Adjust spice levels by adding chili powder or fresh peppers if desired. Letting the curry rest before serving enhances the melding of flavors.