Japanese Katsu Curry

Japanese katsu curry is a delightful dish that features crispy panko breaded chicken served with a rich and flavorful Japanese curry sauce. This comfort food is perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual lunch. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout meal for any occasion, from family gatherings to weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The savory curry sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Comforting Meal: This dish serves as a warm hug on a plate, ideal for satisfying hunger and cravings.
• Great for Leftovers: Katsu curry keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Japanese katsu curry, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: A spacious pan allows even cooking and browning of the chicken without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for prepping ingredients like flour, egg, and breadcrumbs separately for better coating of the chicken.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently and safely.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Katsu

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (lightly pounded)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 3 cups vegetable oil

For the Curry Sauce

• 2 oz Japanese Curry Roux
• 1 yellow onion (wedge cut)
• 1 large russet potato (peeled and diced into 1 inch pieces)
• 1 large carrot (peeled and diced into 1 inch pieces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ cup red apple (peeled and grated about 1 large apple)
• 2 cups chicken stock
• ½ cup water
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked white rice

How to Make Japanese Katsu Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the pounded chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
2. Set up three separate bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dredge each piece of seasoned chicken in flour, dip it in egg, then coat it with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
2. Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil.
3. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Curry Sauce

1. In a separate pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion wedges and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in garlic, potato, carrot, and grated apple; cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken stock and water; bring to a boil.
5. Add Japanese curry roux, soy sauce, and honey; stir until well combined.

Step 4: Serve Your Dish

1. Slice the fried chicken into strips.
2. Serve over warm white rice drizzled with curry sauce.
3. Enjoy your delicious homemade Japanese katsu curry!

How to Serve Japanese Katsu Curry

Japanese katsu curry is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish and impress your guests.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Lightly steam broccoli for a vibrant and nutritious side.
• Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a nice crunch alongside the curry.

Over Crispy Noodles

• Fried Noodles: Serve the katsu curry over fried noodles for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• Soba Noodles: These buckwheat noodles pair well with the rich curry sauce.

Accompanied by Pickles

• Pickled Radish: The tangy flavor of pickled radish provides a refreshing contrast to the curry.
• Japanese Pickles: A mix of various pickles can add color and zest to your plate.

With Fresh Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with sesame dressing complements the richness of katsu curry.
• Seaweed Salad: This adds a unique umami touch that balances well with the dish.

How to Perfect Japanese Katsu Curry

Creating the perfect Japanese katsu curry requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it’s a hit every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and chicken enhance the overall taste and quality of your curry.
• Fry at the Right Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture without absorbing too much oil.
• Adjust Curry Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or use less water when preparing your roux.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving, adjusting flavors with soy sauce or honey as needed for balance.
• Let Chicken Rest: Allow the fried chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Japanese Katsu Curry

When serving Japanese katsu curry, pairing it with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting start to your meal, balancing out the savory flavors of katsu curry.
2. Japanese Potato Salad: Creamy and slightly sweet, this potato salad adds a delightful contrast to spicy or savory dishes.
3. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame makes for an easy-to-prep appetizer that’s both fun and nutritious.
4. Gyoza: These pan-fried dumplings filled with vegetables or chicken offer an irresistible crispy bite that pairs well with curry.
5. Rice Balls (Onigiri): Flavored rice balls serve as a great way to enjoy leftover rice while adding variety to your plate.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed lightly offers freshness that cuts through the richness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Improving your Japanese katsu curry can be simple if you know what to watch out for. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong chicken cut – Opting for chicken thighs instead of breasts can lead to a greasy dish. Stick to boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender texture.
• Skipping the panko breadcrumbs – Regular breadcrumbs won’t give you the crispy texture you desire. Always use panko for that authentic crunch.
• Not seasoning properly – Forgetting to season your flour can make the coating bland. Ensure you season each layer: flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan – Placing too many pieces of chicken in the oil at once can lower the temperature and result in soggy katsu. Fry in batches for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring cooking times – Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on your cooking time, as it usually takes around 4-5 minutes per side.
• Neglecting the curry roux – Not allowing the curry roux to dissolve properly can leave clumps in your sauce. Stir continuously until fully incorporated for a smooth finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Japanese katsu curry in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Japanese Katsu Curry

• Place cooled curry in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Japanese Katsu Curry

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place curry in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Transfer curry to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat slowly over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Japanese katsu curry or need tips, check out these frequently asked questions.

What is Japanese Katsu Curry?

Japanese katsu curry is a delicious dish featuring crispy breaded chicken served with savory curry sauce over rice. It’s known for its comforting flavors and satisfying texture.

Can I use other meats besides chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference. Each meat will add its own unique flavor profile.

How do I make the curry sauce thicker?

To thicken your Japanese katsu curry sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce until it thickens.

Is there a vegetarian version of Japanese Katsu Curry?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with vegetables such as eggplant or tofu and use vegetable stock in place of chicken stock for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Final Thoughts

Japanese katsu curry is not only comforting but also versatile enough to fit various tastes and dietary preferences. Feel free to customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting spice levels according to your liking. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to enjoy every bite!

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Japanese Katsu Curry

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Japanese Katsu Curry is a delightful fusion of crispy, panko-breaded chicken and a rich, savory curry sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual lunch with friends. The harmony of textures—crunchy chicken paired with creamy curry—makes every bite a satisfying experience. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your palate. Plus, it’s a fantastic meal prep option since leftovers taste just as good the next day.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (lightly pounded)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 3 cups vegetable oil
• 2 oz Japanese Curry Roux
• 1 yellow onion (wedge cut)
• 1 large russet potato (peeled and diced into 1 inch pieces)
• 1 large carrot (peeled and diced into 1 inch pieces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ cup red apple (peeled and grated about 1 large apple)
• 2 cups chicken stock
• ½ cup water
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cups cooked white rice

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Instructions

1. Season the pounded chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
2. Set up three separate bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dredge each piece of seasoned chicken in flour, dip it in egg, then coat it with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
5. Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil.
6. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels.
7. In a separate pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
8. Add onion wedges and sauté until translucent.
9. Stir in garlic, potato, carrot, and grated apple; cook for another 5 minutes.
10. Pour in chicken stock and water; bring to a boil.
11. Add Japanese curry roux, soy sauce, and honey; stir until well combined.
12. Slice the fried chicken into strips.
13. Serve over warm white rice drizzled with curry sauce.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (400g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 870mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 68g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 140mg