Curry Bread is a delightful treat that combines the crispy texture of deep-fried dough with a savory filling of rich Japanese curry. This dish is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or looking for a satisfying snack. The unique combination of flavors and textures makes Curry Bread a standout choice in any meal lineup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious homemade Curry Bread without any fuss.
- Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a burst of savory Japanese curry, making it irresistible to both kids and adults.
- Customizable Filling: Feel free to adjust the filling ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields a generous amount, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.
- Great Snack Option: Enjoy Curry Bread as an appetizer or a tasty snack whenever hunger strikes.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools can make all the difference. Below are essential items you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Deep frying pan
- Slotted spoon
- Cooking thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently.
- Rolling pin: Helps in flattening the dough evenly, ensuring even cooking.
- Deep frying pan: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture when frying.
- Cooking thermometer: Ensures oil is at the right temperature for frying, preventing sogginess.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious Curry Bread:
For the Dough
- 2 1/4 cups bread flour
- 3/4 cup cake flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 egg
For the Filling
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 3 potatoes
- 0.3 lbs ground beef
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 3 cubes Japanese curry roux
- 1 cup water
For Coating
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 cups panko/breadcrumbs
How to Make Curry Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, cake flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
- Melt the unsalted butter and mix it with warm milk. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients along with one beaten egg.
- Knead until you achieve a smooth dough. Cover it with a cloth and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Peel and dice the onion, carrot, and potatoes into small pieces.
- Heat vegetable oil in your frying pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Then stir in diced carrot and potatoes.
- Pour in water, soy sauce, and ketchup. Add curry roux cubes and cook until everything is tender and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble Your Curry Bread
- Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into equal pieces (about 16).
- Roll each piece into circles about 4 inches wide. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold over the dough to encase the filling completely and seal edges by pinching them together.
Step 4: Frying Your Curry Bread
- Heat oil in your deep frying pan to about 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each filled bread in cornstarch followed by another beaten egg then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Fry each piece until golden brown on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Enjoy your homemade Curry Bread fresh out of the fryer!
How to Serve Curry Bread
Curry Bread is a delightful snack that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a personal treat, these suggestions will enhance your experience.
Pairing with Dipping Sauces
- Soy Sauce – A classic option; the saltiness complements the savory filling.
- Ketchup – Adds a hint of sweetness that balances the richness of the curry.
- Spicy Mayo – A creamy and spicy dip that intensifies flavors for those who crave heat.
Serving with Fresh Vegetables
- Cucumber Slices – Crisp and refreshing, they provide a nice contrast to the warm bread.
- Carrot Sticks – Sweet and crunchy, they are perfect for dipping and balancing flavors.
Accompanying Beverages
- Green Tea – A traditional pairing that refreshes the palate after each bite.
- Lemonade – The tartness of lemonade brightens up the meal, making it more enjoyable.
How to Perfect Curry Bread
Creating perfect Curry Bread takes practice, but these tips will help you get there quickly.
- Use Quality Flour – High-protein bread flour helps achieve a chewy texture essential for Curry Bread.
- Temperature Control – Ensure your milk is warm but not hot; this activates yeast effectively without killing it.
- Proper Frying Temperature – Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for crispy bread without excessive greasiness.
- Seal Well – Make sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent any filling from leaking during frying.
- Rest Before Frying – Let formed buns rest for about 20 minutes before frying; this allows them to rise slightly and develop flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Curry Bread
Curry Bread is versatile enough to be paired with various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.
- Miso Soup – A warm and comforting soup that provides umami notes and balances the savory curry.
- Edamame – Lightly salted steamed soybeans offer a protein-packed snack that’s easy to prepare.
- Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono) – These tangy pickles add crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Seaweed Salad – A refreshing salad made from wakame seaweed, offering lightness and texture alongside rich curry bread.
- Rice Salad – A cold rice salad with vegetables can create a hearty yet refreshing side to enjoy with your curry.
- Tempura Vegetables – Lightly battered and fried vegetables add another layer of crunchiness to your meal.
- Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides sweetness and freshness that contrast nicely with savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Curry Bread can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong flour type: Always use a combination of bread flour and cake flour. This blend ensures the perfect texture for your curry bread.
- Not letting the dough rise properly: Allow the dough sufficient time to rise. This step is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy consistency.
- Overfilling with curry: Be careful not to overfill your bread with curry filling. Leaving enough space will prevent leaks during frying.
- Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash gives your curry bread a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step if you want visually appealing results.
- Frying at the wrong temperature: If the oil is too hot or too cold, your curry bread may burn or absorb too much oil. Use a thermometer to maintain optimal frying temperature.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Curry Bread
- Freeze in individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Curry Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a non-stick skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Curry Bread?
Curry Bread is a Japanese deep-fried bread filled with savory curry, offering a delightful crunch and rich flavor in every bite.
How do I make Curry Bread from scratch?
To make Curry Bread, prepare a dough with flour, yeast, and milk, fill it with cooked beef and vegetables mixed with Japanese curry roux, then deep-fry until golden.
Can I customize the filling of my Curry Bread?
Yes! You can customize your filling by using different proteins like chicken or turkey or adding extra vegetables such as bell peppers or green beans.
How long does it take to prepare Curry Bread?
The total time to prepare Curry Bread is approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes, including prep and cooking times.
Is Curry Bread suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Curry Bread can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for future meals, making it an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
Curry Bread is not just a snack; it’s an exciting culinary adventure. Its crispy exterior combined with flavorful curry makes it irresistible. Feel free to experiment with fillings and flavors that suit your taste. Enjoy making this delightful treat!
Curry Bread
Curry Bread, or kare pan, is a delectable Japanese street food that brings together the satisfying crunch of deep-fried dough and the rich flavor of savory curry filling. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a quick snack at home. With its crispy exterior and hearty interior, Curry Bread promises to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, you can easily customize the filling to suit your taste—making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups bread flour
- 3/4 cup cake flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 3 potatoes
- 0.3 lbs ground beef
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 3 cubes Japanese curry roux
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 cups panko/breadcrumbs
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, cake flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
- Melt the unsalted butter and mix it with warm milk. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients along with one beaten egg.
- Knead until you achieve a smooth dough. Cover it with a cloth and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour or until doubled in size.
- Peel and dice the onion, carrot, and potatoes into small pieces.
- Heat vegetable oil in your frying pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Then stir in diced carrot and potatoes.
- Pour in water, soy sauce, and ketchup. Add curry roux cubes and cook until everything is tender and well combined.
- Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into equal pieces (about 16).
- Roll each piece into circles about 4 inches wide. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold over the dough to encase the filling completely and seal edges by pinching them together.
- Heat oil in your deep frying pan to about 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each filled bread in cornstarch followed by another beaten egg then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Fry each piece until golden brown on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Prep Time: 90 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Curry Bread (75g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Experiment with different proteins or vegetables in your filling for unique variations. Ensure proper frying temperature for optimal texture—use a thermometer for accuracy. Allow formed buns to rest briefly before frying.