What's Japanese curry?
The History of Japanese Curry
The roots of Japanese curry can be found in masala, an Indian spice blend. During the colonial period in India, the British brought this spice blend back home, where it eventually became curry powder. This then made its way to Japan in the first half of the 19th century, and Japanese curry was born.
- Mid to late 1700s: the British bring the masala spice blend back from India.
- Early 1800s: A British company commercializes curry powder.
- Mid to late 1800s: Curry powder makes its way to Japan. It is said that around 1870, Japanese people came across curry for the first time. Curry rice became known, and around 1890, it became a popular food at a Western restaurant.
- Mid to late 1800s-1900s: since 1900, potatoes, onions, carrots have become a staple of ingredients. About 1950 Japan's first curry roux appeared. Today, using such roux, it is possible to easily make curry sauce even at home.
About Curry Roux:
In Japan, it is common to start with curry roux when preparing curry at home. Roux is made by slowly cooking a mixture of flour, fat, seasonings, spices, and other ingredients. It is then formed into blocks for use in making curry. The use of curry roux makes it possible to easily prepare a perfect pot of Japanese curry every time.
Note: Roux is a French word for flour and fat, butter, or oil that is sautéed together to make a paste used to thicken sauces, soups, and other dishes.
