Discover the Best Japanese Curry Roux at YOYOJAPAN Store

Japanese curry is a beloved dish that has become a staple in Japanese households. Unlike other curries, Japanese curry is known for its rich, savory flavor with a slightly sweet and mild spice profile. The key to making this delicious dish at home is using Japanese curry roux, which comes in easy-to-use blocks that dissolve into a flavorful sauce. At YOYOJAPAN Store, we offer a wide selection of the best Japanese curry roux options, perfect for helping you recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Japanese curry, the top brands of curry roux, and tips on how to make the best Japanese curry.

Although curry is often associated with India, the Japanese version has a unique history and flavor all its own. Curry was introduced to Japan during the late 19th century through the British navy, who brought their own version of Indian curry. Over time, Japanese chefs adapted the recipe, creating a milder, sweeter, and thicker version of curry that better suited Japanese palates.

By the early 20th century, Japanese curry had become a popular dish in homes, schools, and restaurants. The introduction of instant curry roux in the 1950s made it even easier for home cooks to prepare curry, and today, it’s one of Japan’s most beloved comfort foods. Japanese curry roux has become a must-have item in most households, thanks to its convenience and ability to create a hearty meal in minutes.

Japanese curry roux is a pre-made curry base that typically comes in the form of solid blocks or powder. It’s made from a combination of flour, oil, spices, and seasonings that are blended together and then dried into a concentrated form. When added to water or broth, the roux dissolves to create a thick, flavorful sauce. The texture and flavor of Japanese curry are distinct from other types of curry—it’s rich, smooth, and has a balanced blend of sweetness and spice.

The versatility of Japanese curry roux makes it ideal for a wide range of dishes. While Japanese curry is traditionally served with rice (called kare raisu), it’s also used in dishes like katsu curry (breaded pork or chicken cutlet with curry) and curry udon (noodles in curry broth).

There are many different types of Japanese curry roux, each with its own flavor profile and level of spiciness. At YOYOJAPAN Store, we carry a variety of curry roux to suit every taste. Here are some of the most popular types:

S&B Golden Curry is one of the most well-known and widely used Japanese curry roux brands. It’s famous for its rich aroma and well-balanced flavor, with a blend of spices that includes coriander, cumin, turmeric, and black pepper. This brand offers several spice levels, ranging from mild to extra hot, making it suitable for all palates.

• Main uses: Curry rice, katsu curry, curry stew
• Flavor profile: Medium spice with a hint of sweetness, well-balanced umami
• Spice levels: Available in mild, medium hot, and extra hot

Vermont Curry by House Foods is another popular option, especially among families with children. It has a sweet and mild flavor, thanks to the addition of apple and honey in the roux. This gives the curry a subtle sweetness that balances the savory spices, making it a favorite for those who prefer a less spicy dish.

• Main uses: Curry rice, curry udon, kid-friendly meals
• Flavor profile: Mild and sweet, with apple and honey notes
• Spice levels: Available in mild, medium hot, and hot

For those who prefer a spicier and more complex curry, Java Curry by House Foods is an excellent choice. This curry roux is known for its bold flavors and rich aroma, with a deep, robust spice blend that includes onion, garlic, and ginger. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a stronger, more pronounced curry flavor.

• Main uses: Spicy curry dishes, curry stew, curry with grilled meats
• Flavor profile: Spicy with strong aromatic notes, robust and full-bodied
• Spice levels: Available in medium hot and hot

Glico Zeppin Curry is known for its luxurious flavor and high-quality ingredients. This premium curry roux uses a blend of 40 spices and duxelle sauce (a French-style mushroom sauce), giving the curry a deep, rich flavor with a smooth finish. It’s perfect for those looking to create a restaurant-quality curry at home.

• Main uses: Gourmet curry dishes, curry with seafood or premium cuts of meat
• Flavor profile: Rich, deep, and full-bodied, with layers of spices
• Spice levels: Available in mild, medium hot, and hot

Kokumaro Curry is unique for its creamy texture, which comes from the addition of dairy in the roux. This gives the curry a rich, velvety mouthfeel, making it perfect for those who enjoy a milder, creamier curry. The flavor is smooth and balanced, with a blend of spices that add depth without overwhelming the palate.

• Main uses: Creamy curry dishes, curry with vegetables, kid-friendly meals
• Flavor profile: Smooth and creamy with a mild spice level
• Spice levels: Available in mild, medium hot, and hot

Making Japanese curry with curry roux is incredibly easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. Here’s a basic guide to making a delicious curry meal:

• Japanese curry roux (one of your choosing)
• Meat (chicken, beef, pork, or seafood)
• Vegetables (onions, carrots, potatoes)
• Water or broth
• Optional: garlic, ginger, soy sauce for extra flavor

1. Sauté the onions: Heat oil in a large pot and sauté onions until they become soft and translucent. You can also add garlic and ginger for extra flavor.
2. Add the meat and vegetables: Add your choice of meat and vegetables to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until the meat is browned on all sides.
3. Simmer: Add water or broth to the pot, enough to cover the meat and vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the curry roux: Break the curry roux blocks into smaller pieces and add them to the pot. Stir until the roux is completely dissolved and the sauce thickens.
5. Serve: Serve the curry over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!

One of the great things about Japanese curry roux is that it comes in a variety of spice levels, allowing you to customize the heat to your liking. Most brands offer three main spice levels:

• Mild (甘口 - amakuchi): Best for those who prefer a sweeter, less spicy curry. It’s often enjoyed by children or those with low spice tolerance.
• Medium Hot (中辛 - chuukara): A balanced level of spiciness, offering a gentle kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Hot (辛口 - karakuchi): For those who love a spicy curry, hot curry roux offers a bolder and more intense heat.

Additionally, you can customize your curry by adding ingredients like apple slices, honey, or even a touch of soy sauce to enhance the flavor. For a more robust curry, try adding red wine or coffee to the sauce while it simmers.

Japanese curry roux can be stored in a cool, dry place for several months. Once opened, it’s best to keep any unused blocks in an airtight container or ziplock bag to maintain freshness. You can also freeze leftover curry for future meals—simply reheat it in a pot or microwave and enjoy it within a few days.

Japanese curry roux is an indispensable ingredient for anyone looking to create a hearty and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Whether you prefer a mild, sweet curry or a bold, spicy dish, there’s a Japanese curry roux at YOYOJAPAN Store that will suit your tastes. With options like S&B Golden Curry, House Foods Vermont Curry, and Glico Zeppin Curry, you can explore different flavor profiles and spice levels to find your perfect curry match.

Visit YOYOJAPAN Store today to browse our selection of best Japanese curry roux and start making delicious, authentic Japanese curry at home!