Japanese Chicken Curry combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a unique curry roux with a hint of apple for a beautifully balanced sweet and savory experience. This comforting dish, known for its aromatic and mild flavors, is perfect with steamed white rice. Enjoy a heartwarming meal that's both satisfying and rich in taste.
Heat a pan over medium heat and add some oil. Once hot, add the onions and sauté them until they caramelize, stirring occasionally.
Add boneless chicken thighs, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of salt to the pan. Continue to sauté until the mixture becomes aromatic.
Next, incorporate the carrots and potatoes into the pan, giving everything a good mix.
Pour in chicken broth, grated apple, soy sauce, black pepper, ketchup, and honey. Stir everything together to combine well.
Cover the pan with a lid and let the mixture cook for about 15-20 minutes.
After this cooking time, remove the lid and add the Japanese curry roux. I used four medium heat roux cubes, adding them two at a time to ensure they mix evenly.
Once the roux is fully integrated, lower the heat and let the curry simmer until it thickens to your liking. If the curry gets too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more chicken broth or water.
To Serve
Serve this Japanese Chicken Curry with steamed white, Japanese, or basmati rice. Complement it with tamagoyaki or other Japanese dishes for a complete meal. See serving suggestions for more ideas.
Notes
Tips for Making Perfect Japanese Chicken Curry:
Curry Roux Selection: Choose a curry roux that matches your spice preference - mild, medium, or hot. The right level of heat makes a big difference in enjoyment.
Preparation is Key: Organize and prepare your ingredients beforehand. Having everything measured, chopped, and ready streamlines your cooking.
Caramelizing Onions: Spend time caramelizing the onions until golden. This step is crucial for infusing a rich, deep flavor into your curry.
Sauté Aromatics Properly: Allow garlic, ginger, and chicken to sauté thoroughly. This ensures they release their full flavor and aroma.
Even Vegetable Chopping: Cut carrots and potatoes uniformly. Consistent sizing not only cooks them evenly but also enhances the dish's presentation.
The Grated Apple Effect: Don’t skip the grated apple. It's an unconventional addition that brings a subtle sweetness and complexity to the curry.
Thickness Control: Monitor the curry’s consistency. If too thick, thin it with a little chicken broth or water.
Gradual Roux Addition: Add the curry roux in small amounts, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Incorporating it gradually ensures smooth blending.
Simmering Is Crucial: Let the curry simmer until it reaches the desired thickness. This process allows the flavors to integrate and deepen.
Curry Roux Substitute: Create a homemade curry roux by melting 2-3 tablespoons of butter or oil, then mixing in an equal amount of curry powder and flour. Stir until thickened. Use this as a roux substitute to adjust flavor and thickness to your liking.