Asian

Japanese Beef Curry

Name: Japanese Beef Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into chunks; 1 large onion, sliced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, cubed; 3 cups beef broth; 3 tbsp Japanese curry powder; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 apple, grated (optional, for sweetness); 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp ketchup; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice, for serving

Japanese Beef Curry is a comforting and flavorful dish that seamlessly blends rich spices with tender beef and hearty vegetables. Its thick, mildly sweet sauce makes it a perfect comforting meal, whether for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of aromatic curry spices and sweetened with apples or honey gives it a unique, mildly sweet flavor that sets it apart.

Originating from the Meiji era when Western influence introduced curry to Japan, Japanese Beef Curry has become a beloved staple across the country. Unlike Indian or Thai curries, this version features a thick, stew-like consistency and subtle spice, making it accessible to all palates. Its comforting nature and rich umami make it a dish loved by many worldwide who seek a taste of Japanese cuisine.

Prep time: 15 minCook time: 75 minTotal time: 90 minCalories: 550 kcal

Japanese curry with shredded beef of Nakau.JPG by Tokumeigakarinoaoshima is licensed under CC0

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 lb beef stew meat, cut into chunks
1 large onion, sliced
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, cubed
3 cups beef broth
3 tbsp Japanese curry powder
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 apple, grated (optional, for sweetness)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp ketchup
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef chunks and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
Add sliced onions to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
Stir in flour and curry powder, cooking for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
Pour in beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze, then add carrots and potatoes.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
Stir in grated apple, soy sauce, and ketchup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with optional chopped green onions or pickles.