Kare-Pan: Joyful Bites with Japanese Curry Bread
Imagine taking a bite into a crispy, golden bread shell with a surprise waiting inside—a flavorful, rich curry filling that embodies the heart of Japanese comfort food. Kare-Pan, or Japanese Curry Bread, isn’t just a snack; it’s a delightful journey of taste and texture that’s adored worldwide. And now, you can bring this iconic street food to your kitchen and proudly share it with family and friends! Ready to have a go?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Kare-Pan offers an intoxication of textures and aromas that’s hard to resist. Its crispy, deep-fried exterior perfectly complements the savory, aromatic curry filling. It’s a harmonious combination that’s not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether enjoyed as a snack or an appetizer, this curry bun is sure to win smiles at any table.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon dry yeast
– 3/4 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Oil, for frying
For the Curry Filling:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 150g ground beef or pork
– 1 small carrot, diced
– 1 small potato, diced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 tablespoon flour
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For Coating:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Necessary Tools
– Large mixing bowl
– Frying pan
– Deep fryer or large pot
– Damp cloth
– Rolling pin
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to experiment with the filling! Swap the ground meat for tofu for a vegetarian version, or add peas for extra texture. You can adjust the curry powder’s heat to suit your palate, too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start with the curry filling. Warm oil in a pan, add onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Add the ground meat, cooking until browned.
2. Introduce carrots and potatoes, stirring for a few minutes. Mix in curry powder and flour, enjoying the fragrant medley.
3. Pour in water gradually, stirring to form a thick curry. Simmer for about 10 minutes, then flavor with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Allow to cool.
4. For the dough, blend flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Dissolve yeast in warm water, pour into the dry mix along with butter, kneading to form a smooth dough.
5. Let the dough rest, covered with a damp cloth, and rise for an hour or until doubled in size.
6. Once risen, punch down the dough, divide into portions, flatten into circles, and place the curry filling in the center. Seal the edges carefully.
7. Roll each filled dough in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat generously with panko.
8. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and deep-fry the bread until it’s wonderfully golden and crisp, roughly 3 minutes on each side. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these curry buns warm, alongside a fresh salad or tangy pickles to cut through the richness. A glass of iced green tea makes a refreshing pairing.
Pro Tips for Success
Ensure your dough seals well around the filling to prevent leaks during frying. Also, keep your frying oil at a consistent temperature for even results.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftover Kare-Pan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for that original crispy texture.
FAQ Section
1. Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, try baking at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, but note the texture will differ slightly.
2. How can I make it spicier?
Increase the curry powder or add a bit of chili powder to the filling for more heat.
Conclusion
With every Kare-Pan you make, you’re serving a piece of Japanese culinary joy that’s simple yet spectacular! Try it, love it, and maybe even tweak it to your liking. We’d love to see your creations, so share your delicious photos on Instagram or Pinterest!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving (1 piece): Calories: 280; Protein: 8g; Carbohydrates: 36g; Fat: 13g; Sodium: 280mg
