Katsu Curry
Katsu curry is a beloved Japanese comfort food that combines the crunch of breaded and fried meat with the warmth of a rich curry sauce. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, katsu curry will delight your taste buds and warm your heart. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts (or pork cutlets)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Cooked rice for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Based on one serving, katsu curry contains approximately 600 calories, 30g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. This is for one serving size of 1 plate of katsu curry with rice.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the chicken into beaten eggs.
- Coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and let it rest on a paper towel.
- In the same pan, sauté the onions and carrots until soft.
- Add chicken broth, curry powder, soy sauce, and honey; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Slice the chicken and serve over rice, topped with curry sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with pork or tofu for a vegetarian option. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. Adjust the curry powder to suit your spice preference.
Serving and Pairings
Katsu curry is traditionally served with steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables. It also pairs well with a simple salad or miso soup for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover katsu curry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the texture of the breaded chicken may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much oil can make the dish greasy.
- Not letting the chicken rest after frying can lead to sogginess.
- Overcooking the vegetables can result in mushiness.
- Skipping the seasoning can leave the dish bland.
- Using low-quality curry powder may affect the flavor.
- Not letting the curry simmer long enough can result in weak flavors.
- Failing to slice the chicken properly can affect presentation.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through.
- Experiment with different vegetables in the curry.
- Toast the panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Make a larger batch of curry and freeze for quick meals.
- Serve with a drizzle of sesame oil for added flavor.
FAQs
What is katsu curry?
Katsu curry is a Japanese dish that features breaded and fried meat, typically chicken or pork, served with a rich curry sauce over rice. It combines the crispy texture of katsu with the comforting flavors of Japanese curry.
Can katsu curry be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make katsu curry vegetarian by substituting the meat with tofu or eggplant. The same crispy breading and curry sauce can be used to create a delicious alternative.
What type of curry is used in katsu curry?
Katsu curry typically uses a Japanese curry blend, which is milder and sweeter than other types of curries. It often includes a mix of spices and is thickened with flour or starch.
How can I customize my katsu curry?
You can customize katsu curry by adding different vegetables, adjusting the spice level, or experimenting with various meats. You can also serve it with different sides, such as pickled vegetables or salads.
What should I serve with katsu curry?
Katsu curry is best served with steamed white rice, but you can also pair it with a side of salad, miso soup, or even a small portion of pickles for a refreshing contrast.
Conclusion
Katsu curry is a delightful fusion of crispy katsu and hearty curry that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s a dish that you can easily recreate at home. Enjoy this Japanese classic with family and friends for a memorable dining experience!
Katsu Curry
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots chopped
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the chicken into beaten eggs.
- Coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and let it rest on a paper towel.
- In the same pan, sauté the onions and carrots until soft.
- Add chicken broth, curry powder, soy sauce, and honey; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Slice the chicken and serve over rice, topped with curry sauce.