Curry Bread

Curry Bread is a delightful snack that brings the essence of Japanese cuisine to your kitchen. This crispy and chewy bread, filled with rich savory curry, is perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to cozy family dinners. Its unique flavor and texture make it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this delicious dish.
• Flavorful Filling: The blend of spices in the Japanese curry roux creates a deep, satisfying taste that complements the bread perfectly.
• Versatile Snack: Serve it as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal; it’s sure to please any crowd.
• Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs ensure a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft bread and hearty filling.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to the filling for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make Curry Bread successfully, gather your essential tools. These will streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking thermometer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly, ensuring a uniform dough and filling.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough to the right thickness, making it easier to form the buns.
• Frying pan: Ideal for frying the curry bread evenly, achieving that perfect golden-brown color.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Curry Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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
• Oil

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 Filling

Start by preparing the filling for your curry bread:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Mix in diced carrots and potatoes. Cook until tender.
4. Add ground beef; cook until browned.
5. Stir in soy sauce, ketchup, water, and curry roux. Simmer until thickened.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Now it’s time to create the dough:
1. In a large bowl, combine bread flour, cake flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
2. Melt unsalted butter into warm milk; then stir into dry ingredients along with one egg.
3. Knead until smooth (about 10 minutes). Let rise covered until doubled in size.

Step 3: Assemble the Curry Bread

Once both components are ready:
1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface; cut into rounds (about 4 inches).
2. Place a spoonful of filling in each round; fold over and pinch edges tightly.
3. Let assembled buns rest for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Frying

Finish up by frying:
1. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Dip each bun in cornstarch mixed with an egg; coat with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Fry until golden brown on all sides; drain on paper towels.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Curry Bread as an appetizer or snack!

How to Serve Curry Bread

Curry Bread is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a snack, there are many creative options to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Spicy mayo – A creamy and spicy condiment that adds a kick to the curry bread.
• Soy sauce – A classic choice that enhances the umami flavor of the filling.
• Sweet chili sauce – Offers a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory bread.

Serve with Pickled Vegetables

• Japanese pickles (tsukemono) – These add a refreshing crunch and balance the rich flavors of the curry.
• Pickled ginger – A zesty accompaniment that cleanses the palate between bites.

Create a Curry Bread Sandwich

• Fill with fresh veggies – Use lettuce, cucumber, and tomato for a crunchy texture.
• Add sauces – Drizzle with your favorite sauce for extra flavor.

Enjoy with Soup

• Miso soup – A warm, comforting soup that complements the flavors of curry bread perfectly.
• Vegetable broth – Light yet flavorful, it pairs well without overpowering the dish.

How to Perfect Curry Bread

To make sure your Curry Bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality flour – Choosing good bread and cake flour will improve texture and taste.
• Knead well – Proper kneading develops gluten, giving your bread its chewy texture. Aim for about 10 minutes of kneading.
• Rest the dough – Letting the dough rise significantly improves flavor and texture. Ensure it doubles in size before shaping.
• Monitor oil temperature – Fry at around 350°F (175°C) for crispy results without greasy bread. Adjust heat as needed while frying.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Curry Bread

Curry Bread is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with other dishes. Here are some great side options:

1. Japanese Salad – A light salad made with fresh greens and sesame dressing adds a crisp contrast.
2. Edamame – Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt provides protein and complements the meal.
3. Rice Balls (Onigiri) – These can be filled with various ingredients, making them a fun addition to your meal.
4. Tempura Vegetables – Crispy tempura offers an excellent texture contrast to soft curry bread.
5. Noodle Salad – Chilled noodle salads with sesame or soy dressing add freshness to your plate.
6. Steamed Broccoli – A healthy side that adds color and nutritional value without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Curry Bread can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect flour ratios: Using too much bread flour or cake flour can affect the texture. Stick to the specified measurements for the best results.
• Neglecting dough resting time: Skipping the resting period can lead to tough bread. Allow your dough ample time to rise for a light and airy texture.
• Overcooking the filling: If you cook your curry filling too long, it may become dry. Aim for a moist filling that complements the bread.
• Inadequate oil temperature: Frying at the wrong temperature can lead to soggy or burnt bread. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right heat before frying.
• Skipping egg wash: Not applying an egg wash before breading can result in uneven coating. Ensure an even layer for a crispy finish.

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

• Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 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 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Curry Bread.

What is Curry Bread?

Curry Bread is a deep-fried Japanese snack filled with savory curry that offers a unique blend of flavors and textures.

Can I use different meats in Curry Bread?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or lamb for ground beef if you prefer different proteins.

How do I make the curry filling?

Cook onions, carrots, and potatoes with ground meat, adding curry roux and water until thickened for delicious filling.

Is there a vegetarian option for Curry Bread?

Absolutely! Use plant-based proteins and vegetables in place of meat to create a flavorful vegetarian version of Curry Bread.

Final Thoughts

Curry Bread is not just tasty; it’s also versatile! You can customize fillings based on your preferences, making it perfect as an appetizer or snack. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful crunch and rich flavor!