Japanese Beef Curry

Name: Japanese Beef Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g beef chuck, cut into cubes; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 apple, grated; 4 cups beef broth; 4 tablespoons Japanese curry roux; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the comforting warmth of homemade Japanese Beef Curry, a flavorful dish that harmoniously blends tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a rich, spicy-sweet curry sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners and is sure to satisfy your cravings for a deliciously hearty stew. Serve it over steamed rice for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-25T15:59:20.435Z

This dish is a beloved staple in many Japanese households, providing warmth and comfort during cold nights. The combination of spices creates a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and savory.

A Comforting Classic

Japanese Beef Curry is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that brings comfort and joy. This dish brings together juicy pieces of beef and a medley of vegetables, all enveloped in a rich curry sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. Ideal for chilly nights, it's a delightful way to warm up while enjoying a delicious, home-cooked meal.

One of the standout features of this dish is its versatility. You can customize the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or adjust the level of spiciness according to your taste. Whether you prefer more vibrant flavors or a milder dish, Japanese Beef Curry can easily adapt to fit your preferences, making it a treasured recipe in many households.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're someone who loves to plan meals ahead of time, this Japanese Beef Curry is perfect for you. Not only does it store well, but the flavors deepen and improve as it sits, making leftovers something to look forward to. You can easily prepare a large batch and keep it in the refrigerator or freeze portions for future meals. Simply reheat and serve over fresh rice for an effortless dinner any night of the week.

Preparing meals in advance not only saves time but also helps maintain a balanced diet. With this recipe, you can enjoy a wholesome meal knowing it's made with quality ingredients. It offers a nutritious option when compared to takeout, and the satisfaction of creating something delicious yourself is unbeatable.

Serving Suggestions

The classic way to enjoy Japanese Beef Curry is by serving it over a bed of steaming white rice, which helps soak up the delightful curry sauce. However, you can add a twist by pairing it with fluffy naan bread or even over udon noodles for a fusion experience. Each option holds the curry beautifully, allowing you to savor every last drop of sauce.

For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing the dish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or even pickled vegetables for a colorful presentation. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also introduce contrasting textures and flavors that elevate your dining experience, making it even more enjoyable for family and friends.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500g beef chuck, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 apple, grated
4 cups beef broth
4 tablespoons Japanese curry roux
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before starting the cooking process for an efficient cooking experience!

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed beef and cook until browned on all sides.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, and potatoes, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

Simmer with Broth

Pour in the beef broth and grated apple. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.

Add Curry Roux

Break the curry roux into pieces and stir it in until dissolved. Cook for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot over steamed rice.

Enjoy your homemade Japanese Beef Curry!

Storage and Reheating Tips

When storing leftovers, make sure to let the curry cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or stovetop until it's heated through. If the curry appears too thick after refrigeration, simply add a splash of water or broth while reheating to restore its consistency.

If you opt to freeze portions of the curry, it's recommended to do so before adding the curry roux. This way, you can maintain the best texture when reheating. After thawing, stir in the roux and warm it on the stovetop for a homemade taste to rival the day it was made.

Exploring Flavor Variations

While this recipe features traditional ingredients, you can experiment with additional spices and seasonings to suit your taste. Adding a touch of ginger or garlic can enhance the overall flavor profile, while a dash of cayenne pepper can give it a spicier kick. Don't hesitate to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients.

For those looking to make it a vegetarian dish, substituting the beef with tofu or hearty mushrooms can yield a delicious alternative. Vegetarian curry roux is available, making it easy to adapt this recipe into a plant-based option that everyone can enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken for a lighter version of the curry.

→ Is Japanese curry spicy?

Japanese curry is generally mild to medium in spice, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more chili or spices as needed.