Craving a warm hug on a cold day? Japanese curry might just be the answer! The aroma of this comforting dish, with its mild spice and rich flavors, filled the air at a recent workshop hosted by Japan House, a cultural organization. This wasn't just any gathering; it was led by the All Japan Curry Manufacturers Assn., a group dedicated to this beloved dish since 1941.
A room full of chefs and restaurant owners gathered, comparing notes on the perfect bowl of curry. Served over rice or udon noodles, Japanese curry is a nostalgic favorite, perfect for those chilly, rainy days. It's often mild in heat but packed with flavor, filled with vegetables, and readily available throughout Los Angeles.
You can find delicious versions at places like Champion’s Curry in Pasadena, known for its thick, dark curry, or the lighter, 10-hour simmered version at Suehiro in downtown and Chinatown. Kagura, a local chain, also offers its signature curry, which can be enjoyed as a noodle soup.
But here's where it gets controversial... Making Japanese curry at home is surprisingly easy. The key ingredient? Curry roux cubes, a staple in many pantries. Just brown some meat, add your favorite veggies, toss in the roux (or curry flakes), and let it simmer until your house is filled with the inviting scent.
At the workshop, chefs shared their secrets. Steep LA co-owner Samuel Wang adds fresh banana for extra sweetness and thickness. Chef David Kuo is even considering a Taiwan-meets-Japan curry special at his Mar Vista mini-mart, Little Fatty.
If you're looking for a culinary escape, Japanese curry is the perfect comfort food. Here's a whole-chicken recipe from Yakitoriguy, a chef devoted to Japanese cuisine. It's a hearty dish that's perfect for sharing and freezes beautifully.
Yakitoriguy’s Whole-Chicken Japanese Curry
* Cook time: 1 1/2 hours
* Serves 6 to 8
Also, don't miss these other recipes:
Dashi-Maki Tamago (Home-Style Japanese Omelet)
* Cook time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
* Serves 4
Diep Tran’s Buttered Spaghetti With Dried Shrimp And Sake
* Cook time: 20 minutes
* Serves 4 to 6
What are your favorite Japanese comfort foods? Do you have any secret ingredients or unique twists you add to your curry? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
