Instant Pot Japanese Curry: The Easiest Recipe You’ll Ever Try!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Japanese curry with this comprehensive guide on how to make instant pot Japanese curry. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this step-by-step tutorial will empower you to create this beloved dish in the convenience of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 3 tablespoons Japanese curry roux
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 1/4 cup sake (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Turn on your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting.

2. Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.

3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

4. Add Curry Roux: Sprinkle the Japanese curry roux over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute, or until the roux is melted and fragrant.

5. Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, mirin, and sake (if using). Stir to combine.

6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.

7. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.

8. Thicken the Curry: Remove the lid and stir in additional curry roux if desired to thicken the curry.

9. Serve: Serve the instant pot Japanese curry over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Tips for the Perfect Curry:

• Choose the right curry roux: Japanese curry roux comes in different spice levels. Choose the one that suits your taste preferences.
• Use flavorful vegetables: Fresh, high-quality vegetables will enhance the flavor of the curry.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: The chicken should be cooked through but still tender. Overcooking will make it tough.
• Adjust the seasonings: Taste the curry and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, mirin for sweetness, or sake for depth of flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Serve the curry with a variety of toppings such as hard-boiled eggs, pickled vegetables, or crispy fried onions.

Culinary Inspiration:

• Chicken Katsu Curry: Top the curry with crispy chicken katsu cutlets for a satisfying and indulgent meal.
• Vegetable Curry: Substitute the chicken with a mix of vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly curry.
• Seafood Curry: Add shrimp, scallops, or mussels to the curry for a seafood lover’s delight.

Health Benefits of Japanese Curry:

• Rich in antioxidants: Japanese curry contains turmeric, which is a powerful antioxidant that may protect against inflammation and certain chronic diseases.
• Good source of fiber: The vegetables in the curry provide dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and satiety.
• May improve heart health: The spices in Japanese curry, such as cumin and coriander, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering effects.

A Culinary Adventure: Japanese Curry

Making instant pot Japanese curry is a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Japan. With its rich flavors, versatile ingredients, and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. Whether you’re a curry enthusiast or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, this guide will empower you to create an authentic and memorable culinary experience.

FAQs:

1. Can I use beef or pork instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef or pork. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. What can I do if I don’t have Japanese curry roux?
You can make your own curry roux by combining equal parts curry powder, flour, and butter.

3. Can I freeze Japanese curry?
Yes, you can freeze Japanese curry for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.

4. What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Japanese curry?

• Overcooking the chicken
• Using low-quality vegetables
• Not adjusting the seasonings to taste
• Overcrowding the Instant Pot

5. How can I make the curry spicier?
Add more Japanese curry roux or a pinch of red pepper flakes.