Japanese beef curry, or gyuuniku kare, is a comforting and deeply flavorful dish that transcends a simple stew. Unlike its Indian counterpart, Japanese curry boasts a uniquely rich, sweet, and slightly fruity profile. The secret lies in the complex blend of spices, often including curry powder specifically formulated for this style, along with onions, apples, and sometimes even carrots or other vegetables, all slowly simmered to create a deeply satisfying sauce. This slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef that's perfectly complemented by fluffy Japanese rice.
The magic of Japanese beef curry isn't just in the final result, but also in the journey of creating it. The aromatic spices, the tender beef slowly braising in the rich sauce, the anticipation building with each simmer… it’s an experience as much as it is a meal. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step process of making your own delicious Japanese beef curry.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Large skillet
- Pot
Ingredients
- Large onions: 2
- SMB Curry Powder
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Ginger and garlic: mashed
- Ketchup
- Wine (cooking wine)
- Milk
- Worcestershire sauce
- Grated apple
- Beef: 4 cups
- Potato: 1
- Carrot: 1
- Bay leaf: 1
- Mushrooms: 6-7
- Chuck steak
- Flour
- Salt
- Fresh black pepper
- Oil
- Golden Curry Japanese Curry Mix (mild)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté and Brown the Base
- Sauté two large onions in butter and oil until golden brown (medium to low heat).
- Cut chuck steak into bite-sized pieces, trim excess fat, and season with salt, pepper, and flour.
- Brown the chuck steak in a large skillet with oil.
- Add browned beef and caramelized onions to the pot.
Step 2. Develop the Curry Flavor
- In a pot, combine SMB curry powder, ginger, garlic, ketchup, and mix well.
- Add wine (deglaze the pan), beef stock, and stir.
- Simmer covered for 10 minutes, then add water and simmer for another 10 minutes.
Step 3. Simmer with Vegetables and Curry Roux
- Add milk, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, mushrooms, grated apple, potatoes, and carrots. Stir.
- Stir in Golden Curry Japanese Curry Mix (mild). Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are soft and gravy has thickened.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve over rice.
Read more: Vegan Braised Lotus Root (Yeongeun Jorim): Easy Korean Recipe
Tips
- Use the best wine you have for cooking (or any wine you have on hand).
- Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the beef; work in batches.
- Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the size and type of beef used.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-700
- Fat: 35-45g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-made curry roux?
Absolutely! Pre-made roux is convenient and widely available. Just follow the package instructions, usually adding it towards the end of the simmering process.
2. What kind of beef is best for Japanese curry?
Chuck roast or beef stew meat are ideal choices as they become incredibly tender during the long simmering time. Other tougher cuts will also work well.
Enjoy your homemade Japanese beef curry! The rich, savory flavors and tender beef are sure to impress your family and friends. Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, feel free to experiment with different vegetables and spice levels to create your own unique version.