Introduction: Curry in Japan
When people think of Japanese food, many imagine sushi, soba, ramen, and yakitori. However, Japan is also the world’s second-largest curry-loving country, with India taking the top spot. In Japan, curry is known as karē raisu, which means curry over rice. This blog explores how curry became a beloved dish in Japan, tracing its journey from India to the UK, and finally to Japan.
Curry Consumption in Japan
A survey by S&B FOODS, a prominent Japanese producer of curry and spices, reveals that the typical Japanese person eats more than 80 servings of curry annually, which equates to about once a week. This fondness for curry is reflected in the many specialty curry restaurants across Japan and the regularity with which it is made at home.
Early Introduction: India to the UK
In 1772, Warren Hastings, the British East India Company’s governor of Bengal, introduced a powdered spice mixture typical of Indian cooking to the UK. This mixture was later sold by British food production company Crosse & Blackwell (C&B) under the name Curry Powder. While the exact release date of Curry Powder is unknown, it was widely available in the UK by the early 19th century.
The Meiji Era: Curry Arrives in Japan
During Japan’s Meiji era (1868-1912), the country rapidly adopted American and European cultures through globalization. It was during this time that curry was introduced to Japan from England. A cookbook titled *Seiyō ryōri shinan* (Western Cooking Guide) included a curry recipe that suggested using frogs and green onions, which is quite different from the modern Japanese curry recipe. As domestic curry powder became cheaper, the recipe evolved to include onions, potatoes, and carrots, the standard ingredients for Japanese curry today.
The Evolution of Japanese Curry
Japanese curry, which originated in India and was shaped in England, has further evolved in Japan. Just as Chicken Tikka Masala is said to have been created in an Indian restaurant in England, many unique curries have been developed in Indian restaurants in Japan.
Major Curry Cities in Japan
There are five major curry cities in Japan: Tokyo, Kanagawa, Nagoya, Osaka, and Sapporo. However, there are many famous curry restaurants scattered throughout the country. Some of these restaurants are owned by Southeast Asians, adding to the diversity of curry styles available in Japan.
The Cultural Impact of Curry in Japan
Curry, introduced to Japan from the UK as a Western dish, has been viewed as somewhat trendy. This perception is often highlighted in popular Japanese literature. Many curry aficionados, such as magazine editors, designers, and other creative professionals, showcase curry in their work, contributing to the development of Japan’s curry culture.
Four Iconic Curry Styles in Japan
Japanese curry can be categorized into four main styles:
1. European Curry: Made from curry powder imported from England or inspired by European cuisines.
2. Indian Curry: Often called Yakuzen curry, inspired by Chinese herbal medicine and made by blending a variety of spices.
3. Combination Curry: A mix of Indian and European curry dishes.
4. Unique Japanese Curry: Includes dishes like curry with pork cutlets, curry udon, curry bread, and Sapporo’s famous soup curry.
The Future of Curry in Japan
As Japan continues to embrace its love for curry, new innovations and trends are likely to emerge. Fusion dishes that combine traditional Japanese ingredients with curry spices could become more popular, and regional variations may develop further. Additionally, the growing interest in health and wellness could lead to more curries incorporating superfoods and nutritional enhancements. With a rich history and a bright future, curry in Japan is set to remain a dynamic and evolving part of the culinary landscape.
JAPANESE CURRY – A guide to the best curry shops in Tokyo (youtube.com)
Conclusion
Japan’s journey to becoming the world’s second-largest curry-loving country is a fascinating story of globalization and cultural adaptation. From its origins in India to its transformation in the UK and finally its evolution in Japan, curry has become an integral part of Japanese cuisine. With its diverse styles and widespread popularity, curry is sure to remain a beloved dish in Japan for years to come.
