Authentic Japanese Karepan (Curry Bread) Recipe

Ingredients

500g Bread Flour
7g Dry Yeast
40g Sugar
7g Salt
30g Non-Fat Dry Milk Powder
330ml Lukewarm Water
30g Unsalted Butter
200g Panko Bread Crumbs
1 Litre Vegetable Oil (for frying)
2 Large Eggs
300g Japanese Curry

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, dry yeast, sugar, salt and non-fat dry milk powder.
Add the lukewarm water to the bowl and mix until a dough forms.
Add in the unsalted butter and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the Japanese curry according to its package instructions and let it cool.
After the dough has risen, divide it into equal portions and flatten each one out into a disc shape.
Place a spoonful of the cooled curry in the center of each dough disc and fold the edges over to seal it, forming a bun shape.
Leave the buns to rise for another 30 minutes while you heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan for frying.
Beat the eggs in a bowl and dip each bun in the egg wash, then coat it in the panko bread crumbs.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place each bun in the pan and fry it until it is golden brown on all sides.
Remove the buns from the oil and let them cool on a rack before serving.

Tools for making

Large Bowl - for mixing the dough ingredients
Greased Bowl - for proofing the dough
Towel - to cover the dough while it rises
Deep Pan - for frying the Karepan
Rack - to cool the Karepan after frying
Spoon - for scooping the curry filling
Baking Mat or Parchment Paper - to prevent sticking while proofing and frying
Kitchen Tongs - for flipping and removing the Karepan from the oil
Mixing Spoon or Spatula - for combining the dough ingredients
Knife - for dividing the dough and sealing the Karepan
Cutting Board - for preparing the ingredients and shaping the dough

Recipe variations

Use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour for a healthier option
Replace the Japanese curry filling with a different type of curry, such as Indian or Thai curry
Add some vegetables, like peas, carrots, or potatoes, to the curry filling for added flavor and texture
Try using a different type of protein for the filling, such as cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp
Experiment with different spices and seasonings in the dough, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika
Add a touch of spice to the buns by mixing some chili powder or hot sauce into the curry filling
Make a vegetarian version by using vegetable curry or substituting tofu or tempeh for the meat
For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour instead of bread flour
Instead of deep frying, try baking the buns in the oven for a healthier alternative
Create a sweet version by filling the buns with sweet fillings like chocolate, custard, or fruit preserves

Recipe overview

Karepan, also known as Japanese Curry Bread, is a popular and delicious snack in Japan. It is a fried bread filled with rich, flavorful curry. It's both crispy and soft, with a savory filling that is sure to satisfy. This recipe will guide you through the process of making your own Karepan at home. While it does require a bit of time and patience, the end result is definitely worth it. Expect to spend some time preparing the dough and the curry, then filling and frying the bread. Just imagine biting into a warm, crispy bread with a delicious curry center. Happy cooking!

Common questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour? Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for bread flour in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and structure of the karepan may be slightly different.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, you can use active dry yeast instead of dry yeast. Just make sure to activate it by proofing it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the other ingredients.
Can I use store-bought curry instead of making Japanese curry from scratch? Yes, you can use store-bought Japanese curry roux instead of making it from scratch. Follow the package instructions to prepare the curry and let it cool before using it as a filling.
Can I bake the karepan instead of frying? While traditional karepan is deep-fried, you can bake the buns in the oven if you prefer a healthier option. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the buns for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
Can I freeze the karepan? Yes, you can freeze the karepan after frying or baking them. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, reheat them in a preheated oven or toaster oven until heated through.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix and knead the dough.
Measuring Cups and Spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.
Dough Scraper - To help with dividing and shaping the dough.
Greased Bowl - A bowl to let the dough rise.
Towel - To cover the dough while it is rising.
Deep Pan - For frying the Karepan.
Rack - To cool the fried buns.
Bowl for Curry - To prepare and cool the Japanese curry.
Spoon - To measure and place the curry filling in the dough.
Whisk - To beat the eggs for the egg wash.
Tongs or Slotted Spoon - To remove the fried buns from the oil.

Origin stories

Karepan, or Japanese curry bread, is a popular snack and a wonderful culinary fusion that marries the best of Japanese and Western influences. In the late 19th century, as Japan opened its doors to the West, curry was introduced by the British, who had themselves adapted it from Indian cuisine during their colonial period. Initially considered exotic, curry gradually became a Japanese staple, making its way into homes and eateries around the country. In the 1920s, a Tokyo bakery had the ingenious idea of encapsulating this beloved curry in bread and deep-frying it, creating the first Karepan. The novelty was an instant success and continues to be a favorite amongst Japanese people today, even becoming a staple in convenience stores all over the country. In a way, each bite of Karepan is a taste of the global journey that has shaped Japanese cuisine over time.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.