Japanese curry, or “kare,” is a beloved dish in Japan and around the world. Unlike its spicier Indian or Thai counterparts, Japanese curry is known for its mild, slightly sweet, and savory flavor profile. It’s typically served with rice, but there are many other delicious accompaniments that can enhance your curry experience. This article will delve into the various side dishes, drinks, and desserts that pair beautifully with Japanese curry, providing a comprehensive guide to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Understanding Japanese Curry

Before diving into the accompaniments, it’s essential to understand the basics of Japanese curry. The key components include the curry roux, which is a thick paste made from flour, oil, and curry powder. This roux forms the backbone of the curry’s flavor. Meats such as chicken, beef, and pork are commonly used, along with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions. Typically, Japanese curry is served over steamed white rice, but there are several variations and additions that can complement the dish.

Also Read: Must Try The Master Chef’s Japanese Curry Recipe For A Healthy Meal

Accompaniments for Japanese Curry

Rice Variations

While plain steamed white rice is the traditional accompaniment, there are several variations you can try. Brown rice is a healthier option, offering more fiber and a nuttier flavor that pairs well with the curry’s sweetness. Multigrain rice, a mix of different grains such as barley, millet, and quinoa, can add a unique texture and flavor profile. For a vibrant twist, saffron rice, with its bright yellow color and subtle aromatic flavor, can elevate the dish.

Bread

Bread is a fantastic alternative to rice and is particularly popular for dipping into the curry sauce. Naan, while traditionally Indian, has a soft and chewy texture that makes it an excellent choice for scooping up curry. A crusty French baguette can add a delightful crunch, while Japanese milk bread, known for its fluffy texture, is perfect for soaking up the curry.

Pickles and Condiments

Pickles and condiments provide a tangy contrast to the rich and savory curry. Fukujinzuke, a Japanese pickle made from radish, eggplant, and lotus root, is often sweetened with soy sauce and mirin. Rakkyo, pickled Japanese scallions, add a crunchy and slightly sweet flavor, while pickled ginger, also known as “beni shoga,” offers a sharp and refreshing bite.

Vegetable Sides

Adding vegetable side dishes can balance the meal and provide a variety of textures and flavors. Edamame, steamed and lightly salted soybeans, make for a nutritious and crunchy side. Tsukemono, Japanese pickled vegetables like cucumbers, daikon radish, and carrots, provide a refreshing and tangy contrast. Namasu, a salad made from thinly sliced daikon radish and carrots marinated in a sweet and sour dressing, can also be a delightful addition.

Protein Enhancements

While Japanese curry usually includes meat, additional protein sides can make the meal more substantial. Tonkatsu, a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside, is a popular addition to curry, known as “katsu curry.” Chicken katsu, similar to tonkatsu but made with chicken, offers a lighter option. For a vegetarian choice, fried tofu cubes add a crispy texture and absorb the curry sauce well.

Eggs

Eggs are a versatile addition that can complement the curry in various ways. Boiled eggs, halved or quartered, can be placed on top of the curry. A sunny-side-up fried egg with a runny yolk can add richness, while a thin omelet sliced into strips can provide a soft and fluffy texture.

Soup

A light soup can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty curry. Miso soup, a traditional Japanese soup made from fermented soybean paste, tofu, and seaweed, is a classic choice. A simple clear soup with a few vegetables or mushrooms can cleanse the palate and complement the meal.

Salad

A fresh salad can add a crisp texture and balance the rich curry. Japanese cabbage salad, made with shredded cabbage and a light sesame dressing, offers a crunchy and refreshing side. Seaweed salad, marinated with sesame seeds and a tangy dressing, provides a unique texture. A cucumber salad, with thinly sliced cucumbers and a vinegar-based dressing, can also be a refreshing addition.

Drinks to Pair with Japanese Curry

The right drink can enhance the flavors of your curry and provide a refreshing contrast. Green tea is a classic pairing with Japanese meals. Its slightly bitter taste complements the sweetness of the curry. Sencha, a common type of green tea with a fresh, grassy flavor, and matcha, powdered green tea with a rich and umami flavor, are excellent choices.

A cold beer can balance the richness of the curry and cleanse the palate. Japanese lagers like Asahi, Kirin, or Sapporo are light and crisp, while a hoppy IPA or a malty amber ale can also be excellent choices. Japanese rice wine, or sake, can add a sophisticated touch to your meal. Junmai, a pure rice sake with a rich and full-bodied flavor, and ginjo, a premium sake with a fruity and floral aroma, are both wonderful options.

For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there are several refreshing choices. Calpico, a sweet and tangy yogurt-based drink, and Ramune, a carbonated soda with various fruity flavors, are popular in Japan. Iced oolong tea, with its refreshing and slightly bitter taste, can also be a great pairing.

Desserts to Follow Japanese Curry

Ending your meal with a sweet treat can provide a delightful contrast to the savory curry. Mochi, a chewy rice cake, comes in various flavors and fillings. Daifuku, mochi filled with sweet red bean paste, and ichigo daifuku, mochi filled with red bean paste and a whole strawberry, are popular choices.

Dorayaki, a pancake sandwich filled with sweet red bean paste, is soft and slightly sweet, making it a perfect post-curry dessert. Japanese cheesecake, light, fluffy, and less sweet than its Western counterpart, provides an airy texture that is a pleasant end to a hearty meal. Green tea ice cream, with its creamy and slightly bitter flavor, pairs well with the sweetness of the curry and offers a refreshing finish.

Conclusion

Japanese curry is a versatile and comforting dish that can be complemented by a variety of side dishes, drinks, and desserts. Whether you stick to traditional accompaniments like rice and pickles or explore new combinations with bread, salads, and protein enhancements, there are countless ways to enhance your curry experience. Remember to pair your meal with a refreshing drink and end with a delightful dessert for a complete and satisfying dining experience. Enjoy your culinary journey with Japanese curry!