How To Make Katsu Curry

Introduction

Katsu curry is a popular Japanese dish that combines the crispiness of breaded meat or vegetables with the rich and savory flavors of Japanese curry sauce. This delightful dish offers a balance of textures and a harmonious blend of spices, making it a favorite among curry lovers. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making katsu curry, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful Japanese delight in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients: To make katsu curry, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Katsu:

• 2 boneless chicken breasts or pork loin chops
• Salt and pepper for seasoning
• All-purpose flour for dredging
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Panko breadcrumbs for coating
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Curry Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Cooked rice
• Pickled vegetables (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Katsu:

• Season the chicken breasts or pork loin chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Dredge each piece in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
• Dip the coated meat in beaten eggs, ensuring it is well coated.
• Coat the meat in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
• Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
• Fry the breaded meat for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.

Make the Curry Sauce:

• Heat vegetable oil in a separate large saucepan or pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent.
• Add the diced carrots and potatoes, and cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.
• Sprinkle curry powder and garam masala over the vegetables, stirring well to coat them evenly.
• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
• Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey (if using), and bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Reduce the heat to low and let the curry sauce simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Serve:

• Slice the cooked katsu into thin strips.
• Serve a portion of cooked rice on a plate.
• Place the katsu strips on top of the rice and ladle the curry sauce over the katsu.
• Garnish with pickled vegetables, if desired.

Variations and Tips:

• For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the chicken or pork with breaded tofu or tempeh.
• Adjust the spiciness of the curry sauce by adding more or less curry powder or garam masala, according to your taste preference.
• Customize the curry sauce by adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or peas.
• Serve the katsu curry with a side of refreshing salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Making katsu curry at home allows you to savor the delightful flavors of this beloved Japanese dish. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create crispy katsu and a rich curry sauce that will transport your taste buds to Japan. Enjoy the satisfying combination of textures and the aromatic spices that make katsu curry a favorite among curry enthusiasts. Serve it over steamed rice and garnish with pickled vegetables for a truly authentic experience. Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade katsu curry and embark on a culinary adventure right from your own kitchen.