If you love the comforting warmth of curry and the satisfying crunch of fried bread, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Curry Bread Recipe. Known as a beloved Japanese snack, curry bread brings together a soft, pillowy dough filled with rich, savory curry, all encased in a crispy golden crust. It’s the perfect treat for any time of day, whether as a snack, lunchbox surprise, or party appetizer. This recipe expertly balances flavors and textures, promising each bite is bursting with curry’s spicy goodness nestled inside a perfectly fried bun that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Curry Bread Recipe right means focusing on simple but essential ingredients that work in harmony. Each item plays an important role, whether it’s building a tender dough, crafting a flavorful curry filling, or creating a beautifully crunchy coating for frying.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The base for your soft and elastic dough.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds a slight sweetness to balance the savory filling.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the dough.
- Instant yeast (2 teaspoons): Ensures a lovely rise and airy texture.
- Warm milk (3/4 cup): Keeps the dough tender and moist.
- Warm water (1/4 cup): Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
- Egg (1): Adds richness and improves dough structure.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, softened): For softness and a subtle buttery flavor.
- Cooking oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing your curry filling ingredients.
- Onion (1/2, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the curry.
- Carrot (1/2, finely diced): Offers a little texture and natural sweetness.
- Ground beef or chicken (1/2 pound): The hearty protein that makes the filling satisfyingly meaty.
- Curry powder (1 tablespoon): Brings that essential curry punch of spices.
- Ketchup (1 tablespoon): A surprising ingredient that adds brightness and balance.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami and depth to the filling.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall savoriness of the filling.
- Flour (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the curry filling.
- Water (1/4 cup): Used to create the sauce consistency in the filling.
- Beaten egg (1): For brushing and helping the breadcrumbs stick.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Gives the curry bread its signature crispy coating.
- Oil for deep frying: Ensures a golden and crunchy finish.
How to Make Curry Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, salt, and yeast—in a large bowl. Then add the warm milk, warm water, and egg to the mixture. Stir everything until it forms a shaggy dough. Next, knead in the softened butter either by hand or with a mixer for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Cover your dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for about an hour until it doubles in size. This is the foundation of your curry bread, so taking the time here ensures a soft and airy texture.
Step 2: Make the Curry Filling
While the dough rises, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and diced carrot, cooking until tender and fragrant. Then add your choice of ground meat—beef or chicken—and cook until it’s nicely browned. Now comes the magic: stir in the curry powder, ketchup, soy sauce, salt, and flour. Cook it for a couple of minutes to let those flavors meld. Add the water and keep stirring until the mixture thickens into a perfect curry filling. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before assembling. This step is what sets this recipe apart with its rich, well-seasoned filling packed with depth.
Step 3: Assemble the Buns
Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 10 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a round disc. Place about a tablespoon of the cooled curry filling into the center of each disc. Pinch the edges together tightly to seal in the filling, shaping each into a smooth ball. Lay the assembled buns seam-side down on a tray, cover loosely, and let them rest for 20 minutes to puff up slightly before frying.
Step 4: Bread and Fry the Curry Bread
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot until it reaches about 340 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Dip each bun into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Fry the buns in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. The result is an amazingly crunchy exterior surrounding a soft bun filled with flavorful curry—a true joy to bite into.
How to Serve Curry Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your curry bread with simple garnishes can elevate the experience. A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a dusting of powdered chili can add a fresh or spicy note. You might even offer a side of Japanese pickled ginger to brighten each bite and contrast the rich curry flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Curry bread is versatile, so pairing it with light side dishes works well. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, a bowl of miso soup, or steamed vegetables complement the savory bread without overpowering it. These sides keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress friends or family, slice the curry bread buns in half and serve them open-faced with an extra drizzle of Japanese mayo or even a dash of hot sauce. You can also slice smaller curry bread balls to create bite-sized appetizers, perfect for parties or casual get-togethers. Presentation is endless with this delightful snack!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover curry bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps keep the crust slightly crisp and prevents the bread from drying out. For best flavor, consume them as soon as possible since frying creates the best texture fresh.
Freezing
This Curry Bread Recipe freezes exceptionally well. After frying, allow the buns to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer bag. They keep well for up to one month. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick treat anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, skip the microwave if possible and instead warm the buns in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 15 minutes or air fry them for a few minutes to restore that crispy coating. This method will recapture the fresh-out-of-the-fryer texture and flavor that makes curry bread irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use other meats in the curry filling?
Absolutely! While ground beef or chicken is traditional, you can experiment with ground pork, turkey, or even a plant-based meat substitute to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Is it possible to bake the curry bread instead of frying?
Yes, if you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the buns. Brush them with egg wash and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown. They won’t be as crispy but still delicious.
Can I prepare the curry filling ahead of time?
Definitely! Making the curry filling in advance is a great time-saver. Just refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the buns, making sure it’s completely cool before filling the dough to prevent sogginess.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Panko is preferred for its light, airy crunch, but you can substitute regular breadcrumbs if needed. The texture won’t be quite the same, but your curry bread will still taste amazing.
How spicy is the curry bread?
The spice level is mild to moderate because of the curry powder and seasonings used. You can always adjust the amount of curry powder or add chili flakes to suit your heat tolerance.
Final Thoughts
This Curry Bread Recipe is an absolute gem that combines the best of textures and flavors with every bite. It’s truly satisfying to make from scratch and even more rewarding to share with loved ones. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food that’s crispy on the outside and bursting with savory curry inside. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why this dish has stolen so many hearts.
Print
Curry Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 buns
- Category: Snack, Bread
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
Curry Bread, also known as Kare Pan, is a delicious Japanese snack consisting of soft yeast dough filled with savory curry, then breaded and deep-fried to golden perfection. This recipe provides a crispy, flavorful treat perfect for enjoying warm or reheated.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the curry filling:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 carrot, finely diced
- 1/2 pound ground beef or chicken
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/4 cup water
For frying and coating:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for deep frying
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Add warm milk, warm water, and egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead in the softened butter. Knead by hand or using a mixer for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and allow it to rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the filling: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrot, cooking until softened. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in curry powder, ketchup, soy sauce, salt, and flour, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually add water and stir until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool completely before using.
- Assemble the buns: Punch down the risen dough and divide into 10 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a disc and place about 1 tablespoon of the cooled curry filling in the center. Pinch the edges tightly to seal the filling inside and shape into a ball. Place the buns seam side down on a tray, cover loosely, and let rest for 20 minutes.
- Bread and fry: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 340–350°F (170–175°C). Dip each bun into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Fry the buns in batches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a baked version, brush the buns with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes until golden.
- Use leftover Japanese curry for the filling as a quick shortcut.
- Curry buns freeze well after frying; reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Use non-dairy milk and skip butter to make the dough dairy-free.
