Are you tired of the same old boring sandwiches for lunch? Look no further! In this article, we will show you how to make an ultra curry and rice style sandwich that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. This unique and delicious sandwich is a twist on traditional Japanese curry and rice, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.
What is Curry and Rice?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk a little bit about what curry and rice is. Curry and rice, also known as “curry rice” or “karee raisu” in Japanese, is a popular dish in Japan that consists of a bed of rice topped with a flavorful curry sauce and various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and seafood. The curry sauce is usually made with a combination of spices, herbs, and sometimes coconut milk or yogurt, which gives it a rich and creamy texture.
A Brief History of Curry and Rice in Japan
Curry and rice has a long history in Japan, dating back to the late 19th century when Japanese sailors and traders brought back curry spices and recipes from India and Southeast Asia. Over time, Japanese chefs adapted these recipes to suit local tastes, using ingredients such as beef, pork, and chicken instead of lamb or goat meat. Today, curry and rice is a beloved dish in Japan, and it’s often served at restaurants, cafes, and even at home.
The Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich Recipe
Now that we’ve talked about what curry and rice is, let’s get to the recipe! To make an ultra curry and rice style sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Japanese curry sauce (store-bought or homemade) | 1 cup |
| Cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain rice) | 2 cups |
| Sliced beef or pork (such as tonkatsu or chicken katsu) | 1 cup |
| Shredded lettuce | 1 cup |
| Sliced cucumber | 1/2 cup |
| Sliced tomato | 1/2 cup |
| Mayonnaise or Japanese mayo (such as Kewpie) | 2 tablespoons |
| Bread (preferably a crusty bread or a baguette) | 1 loaf |
Step 1: Prepare the Curry Sauce
If you’re using store-bought curry sauce, you can skip this step. However, if you want to make your own curry sauce from scratch, here’s a simple recipe:
Homemade Curry Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using), and stir for 1 minute.
- Pour in the coconut milk and broth, and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Cook the Japanese Rice
Japanese rice is a crucial component of the ultra curry and rice style sandwich. To cook Japanese rice, you’ll need a medium saucepan and a fine-mesh strainer.
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly and drain well.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups of water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
- Simmer the rice for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a bowl.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Now it’s time to assemble the ultra curry and rice style sandwich!
Instructions:
- Slice the bread into 1-inch thick slices.
- Spread a layer of mayonnaise or Japanese mayo on each slice of bread.
- Add a layer of shredded lettuce on top of the mayonnaise.
- Add a layer of sliced cucumber and tomato on top of the lettuce.
- Add a layer of sliced beef or pork on top of the vegetables.
- Spoon a layer of curry sauce over the meat.
- Add a layer of cooked Japanese rice on top of the curry sauce.
- Place the other slice of bread on top of the rice to complete the sandwich.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to take your ultra curry and rice style sandwich to the next level:
- Use a variety of meats, such as chicken or seafood, instead of beef or pork.
- Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the curry sauce for extra flavor.
- Use a different type of bread, such as a baguette or ciabatta, for a different texture.
- Add some sliced avocado or pickles to the sandwich for extra creaminess and tanginess.
- Use a spicy curry sauce for an extra kick.
Conclusion
The ultra curry and rice style sandwich is a unique and delicious twist on traditional Japanese curry and rice. With its flavorful curry sauce, tender meat, and crunchy vegetables, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or just looking for a new sandwich idea, this recipe is definitely worth trying. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the ultimate curry and rice style sandwich!
What is an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich?
An Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich is a unique and flavorful twist on traditional sandwiches. It typically consists of a generous serving of Japanese-style curry and a scoop of steaming hot rice, placed between two slices of soft and fluffy bread. This sandwich is a popular comfort food in Japan and has gained worldwide recognition for its simplicity and deliciousness.
The combination of the savory curry and the slightly sweet rice, all wrapped up in a soft bread roll, creates a match made in heaven. The textures and flavors work together in perfect harmony, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or prefer milder flavors, the Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich is a must-try for anyone looking to mix things up in their culinary routine.
What type of bread is best for an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich?
When it comes to choosing the right bread for an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich, you’ll want to opt for something soft and fluffy. A milk bread or a Japanese-style bread roll works perfectly, as it provides a gentle cradle for the curry and rice without overpowering their flavors. Avoid using crusty or dense bread, as it can be too heavy and overpowering.
If you can’t find milk bread or Japanese-style bread, you can also use a soft white bread or even a brioche. The key is to choose a bread that is soft and yielding, yet still holds its shape when filled with the curry and rice. You can also toast the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich to give it a slightly crispy texture and a more appealing presentation.
What type of curry is best for an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich?
For an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich, you’ll want to use a Japanese-style curry that is mild and slightly sweet. This type of curry is typically made with a combination of onions, carrots, potatoes, and sometimes meat or seafood, all slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful sauce. You can use store-bought curry roux or make your own from scratch using a combination of curry powder, flour, and butter.
When choosing a curry for your sandwich, look for one that is labeled as “mild” or “medium” in terms of spiciness. You want the curry to be flavorful but not overpowering, as the rice and bread will help to balance out the heat. If you prefer a spicier curry, you can always add more chili peppers or hot sauce to taste.
How do I assemble an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich?
Assembling an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich is a straightforward process that requires just a few simple steps. Start by cooking your Japanese-style curry according to the package instructions or your own recipe. While the curry is cooking, prepare a scoop of steaming hot rice. You can use Japanese short-grain rice or any other type of rice that you prefer.
Once the curry and rice are ready, slice a soft bread roll in half and place a generous serving of the curry on the bottom half of the bread. Add a scoop of rice on top of the curry, followed by the top half of the bread. You can also add some sliced green onions or pickled ginger on top of the curry for extra flavor and texture.
Can I customize an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich to my taste?
One of the best things about an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich is that it can be customized to your taste preferences. If you like spicy food, you can add more chili peppers or hot sauce to the curry. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less curry powder or omit the chili peppers altogether.
You can also add other ingredients to the sandwich to give it more flavor and texture. Some popular options include sliced pork or chicken, boiled eggs, and pickled vegetables. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your perfect Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich.
Can I make an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich ahead of time?
While it’s best to assemble an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich just before serving, you can make some of the components ahead of time. For example, you can cook the curry and rice in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to assemble the sandwich.
If you want to make the sandwich ahead of time, you can assemble it without the rice and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just be sure to add the rice just before serving, as it can become soggy and unappetizing if it sits for too long.
Is an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich a healthy option?
While an Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich can be a delicious and satisfying meal, it may not be the healthiest option due to the high carbohydrate content of the bread and rice. However, you can make some adjustments to make the sandwich healthier. For example, you can use whole wheat bread instead of white bread, and add more vegetables to the curry to increase the nutrient content.
You can also use brown rice instead of white rice, which is higher in fiber and nutrients. Additionally, be mindful of the amount of oil and salt used in the curry, and try to balance it out with some healthier ingredients. With a few simple tweaks, you can enjoy a healthier and more balanced Ultra Curry and Rice Style Sandwich.