Description
Curry Bread, or Kare Pan, is a popular Japanese snack featuring soft bread dough filled with thick, flavorful Japanese-style curry. These buns are coated with panko breadcrumbs and golden-fried to create a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the savory, rich curry inside. Perfect as a snack or light meal, this recipe offers a delicious blend of textures and authentic Japanese flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2/3 cup warm milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Filling and Coating:
- 1/2 cup cooked Japanese-style curry (thick with minimal liquid)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm milk while stirring and knead the mixture until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Incorporate the softened unsalted butter into the dough and continue kneading for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Buns: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 6 equal portions. Flatten each piece into a circle, spoon about 1 tablespoon of thick, cooled Japanese curry into the center, then pinch the edges tightly to seal the filling inside. Shape each sealed dough piece into an oval bun.
- Coat the Buns: Dip each bun into the beaten egg wash, ensuring full coverage, then roll it in panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Second Rest: Let the coated buns rest for 15 minutes to set the coating and slightly relax the dough before frying.
- Fry the Buns: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 340°F (170°C). Carefully fry each bun for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the buns from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use leftover thick Japanese curry for the filling to enhance flavor and texture.
- Ensure the curry is completely cooled before stuffing to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
- For a lighter version, bake the buns at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes instead of frying.
- Adjust filling amount as per preference, but avoid overfilling to ensure proper sealing.
- Maintain oil temperature carefully to prevent soggy or burnt bread.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
