Source: Passionate About Food
According to Culinary Lab School the two cuisines share some similarities, but Indian curry has been around for far longer. Japanese curry and Indian curry may sound or even look just the same. But for curry lovers and connoisseurs, there is definitely more than meets the eye between these spicy dishes.
Definitely, the two cuisines share some similarities, but Indian curry has been around for far longer. The word “curry” itself is derived from the word “kari” of the Tamil people of India and Sri Lanka, which means “sauce” or generally denotes vegetables and meat cooked with spices.
The spread of curry around the world
The rise of the Mughal Empire by the 16thcentury, as well as the establishment of a Portuguese trading port in Goa, gave rise to different varieties of curry. The latter, in particular, led to the introduction of chili peppers to India from the Americas.
In turn, the concept of adding spicy sauces to boiled and cooked meats began creeping into English cuisine by the 17thcentury. Curry was further introduced to other cultures around the world due to British colonization. For instance, Indian workers in the British sugar industry in the Caribbean began cooking and spreading the dish in the locale.
Eventually, curry was brought into Japanese culture around the Meiji period during the late 19thcentury, thanks to the British who were ruling India at that time. Naturally, the Japanese developed their own way of cooking and enjoying curry, and thus the difference.
Hot, hotter, hottest
Foodies say that, in general, Japanese curry is not as spicy as Indian curry. For one, Japanese curry uses curry powder with less spices whereas Indian curry uses a variety of bases such as cumin, paprika, turmeric, and many more. Indian curry is more vibrant and bursting with flavor, while Japanese curry is sumptuous and “umami” but in a more understated manner.
The ingredients that go into the dish also vary. Traditional Japanese pork “katsu” or breaded and sliced meat goes well with curry, along with vegetables such as onions, carrots, and potatoes. Other meats such as beef or chicken are also used. Indian curry, meanwhile, is more varied—creamy, spicy, or vegetarian. Due to religious practices, beef is not consumed. Rather, mutton is commonplace along with chicken. Lentils are also used when meat is scarce.
In general, one might describe Japanese curry as warmer and more comforting, while Indian curry is more loud and adventurous.
Rice or pita?
Japanese curry is almost always eaten with rice. The Japanese have also developed fast cuisine, such as katsu curry, which are very popular among the working lunch crowd. It has also become quite diverse, with some restaurants offering interesting versions of Japanese curry served with other traditional ingredients such as udon or ramen noodles.
While Indians being Asian also count rice as a staple, curry is most often enjoyed with local flat bread, such as roti. However, there are a wide variety of other flat breads in different regions.
Which is better?
It would obviously be unfair to say which is better between Japanese curry and Indian curry, as each has its own unique flavor and character. They are also cooked in their own different way. It would really all depend on the curry eater and their personal preference.
In a way, Japanese curry would be a good introduction to thewonderful world of curry, in a less intimidating way. Japanese curry has the basic flavors of traditional curry. But for a full-on authentic experience, Indian curry would be the one to try for its honest-to-goodness flavors and spices.
In the end, why choose one when you can try both and enjoy the whole wide world of wonderful curry!
Source: Passionate About Food
FAQs
For one, Japanese curry uses curry powder with less spices whereas Indian curry uses a variety of bases such as cumin, paprika, turmeric, and many more. Indian curry is more vibrant and bursting with flavor, while Japanese curry is sumptuous and “umami” but in a more understated manner.
Why is Japanese curry better? ›
The stand-out feature of a Japanese curry is its thick, rich sauce. The thickness of the sauce which can only be found in Japanese curry is supported and beloved by many. The rich and indulgent sauce mixes with rice so perfectly, you will find it difficult stoping eating.
What is the difference between Japanese Indian and Thai curry? ›
Japanese curry is mildly spicy and often sweetened. The spice comes from curry powder. Indian curries can range from mildly spicy to very hot depending on the type and quantity of chili peppers used. Thai curries are intensely spicy due to the liberal use of hot chilies in the curry paste.
Is Japanese curry healthy or unhealthy? ›
“Everything in excess is bad,” so you should consume Japanese curry in moderation because it is high in sodium and fat- which can make a person sick when taken too much. Nevertheless, consuming it often can provide you with several health benefits and a lot of strength. Japanese curry is a good source of protein.
Does Japanese curry taste like Thai curry? ›
It has a hint of sweetness, although some regional variations can be quite sweet (like in northern Honshu). Japanese curry can be salty as well. Thai Curry: Thai curry pastes feature large amounts of hot chilies, making many Thai curries intensely spicy.
Is Indian curry better than Japanese curry? ›
In a way, Japanese curry would be a good introduction to the wonderful world of curry, in a less intimidating way. Japanese curry has the basic flavors of traditional curry. But for a full-on authentic experience, Indian curry would be the one to try for its honest-to-goodness flavors and spices.
What is the difference between Japanese and Indian rice? ›
Indica varieties of rice usually contain more amylose and less amylopectin than japonica varieties, which is why rice varieties like basmati or jasmine tend to cook up into distinct grains, rather than the slightly sticky cooked grains produced by Japanese varieties.
Which is better, Indian or Thai curry? ›
Thai curries have a brighter flavor and soupier consistency, because they use lots of fresh herbs and are cooked for less time than Indian curries. It's worth your time stocking up on some of the unique ingredients — you can freeze herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves for multiple future uses.
What makes Indian curry different? ›
Indian curry often utilizes dairy, such using yogurt sauce to marinate meats. In Southern India, coconut milk is a commonly used component, rather than dairy. Common ingredients within Indian curries include lentils, chicken, and chickpeas, and they often have a thicker consistency than Thai curries.
Why is Japanese curry powder much milder than the Indian or Thai ones? ›
Japanese curry is often considered milder compared to Indian or Thai curry because it typically uses a different blend of spices and ingredients. It's known for its rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. If you enjoy beef, pork, or lamb, you can try Japanese curry with these meats.
Any Indian curries that are tomato-based, like tandoori, madras, jalfrezi, rogan and bhuna, are the lowest in calories. They average around 200-300 calories. If you want an even healthier option, consider a sauce-free dish like fish tikka (which is only 180 calories).
Is Japanese curry inflammatory? ›
The spice blend is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and consuming it may help reduce oxidative stress, boost heart health, and improve blood sugar levels, among other potential benefits. The best part is that curry powder makes an excellent addition to a wide array of recipes.
Why does Japanese curry upset my stomach? ›
Ingredients in Curry
However, spicy curries often contain numerous hot chilies that can cause indigestion. Curry powder and curried dishes are often house recipes and can contain a multitude of other indigestion-causing ingredients.
Which Thai curry is the tastiest? ›
1. Green Curry. This Green Curry is one of the best Thai curries if you like hot, spicy food. It's creamy, fiery, and delicious, deriving its heat from a generous amount of green chilies.
Why does Japanese curry taste so good? ›
While curry is prevalent in multiple countries, Japanese curry is usually thicker in texture, sweeter, and less spicy than its Thai or Indian counterparts. That sweetness often comes from the addition of an apple and/or some honey.
What does Indian curry taste like? ›
Curry is often described as a dish that is earthy, spicy, warming, or even sometimes sweet. It is a well-balanced, richly spiced dish with notes of deep savory flavors from turmeric, coriander, cumin, bay leaf, cinnamon, and cloves, just to name a few. Black pepper and red chilies provide spiciness and a rich hue.
What is unique about Japanese curry? ›
The dish has changed and been adapted so much since its introduction that it stands on its own as uniquely Japanese. The combination of sweet, sticky Japanese short-grain rice with a thickened curry sauce has led to the unique evolution of Japanese curry.
What is the difference between Japanese and Korean curry? ›
Korean curry has similar ingredients and methods of preparation as Japanese curry but is notably spicier (and tends to be a bit heavier on the garlic). Korean curries utilize a roux as their foundation like Japanese curries to get its thick consistency.
How is Japanese curry powder different? ›
Although spicier versions exist, the commonly encountered versions of Japanese curry powder are relatively mild, with turmeric and coriander forward notes and a residual sweetness (S&B's version purportedly contains 30 spices).
