Introduction
The flavorful Japanese curry is a dish loved for its rich flavors and comforting texture. While traditionally enjoyed for lunch or dinner, there is a rise in the use of the term “asa curry” (literally “curry for breakfast”) in Japan. So, can you eat it for breakfast? Yes, you can. The dish is gaining traction as more people seek healthy and satisfying meals during breakfast. This article will discuss why Japanese curry is admirable for breakfast alongside its nutritional benefits while also presenting practical suggestions on how to incorporate the dish into your mornings.
Rise of Curry for Breakfast
As shocking as it sounds, the concept of eating curry for breakfast is gaining popularity throughout Japan, more specifically, the “asa curry” trend. One cultural influencer that comes to mind is Ichiro Suzuki, the famous baseball player who is known to have curry for breakfast often. His endorsement of this dish being eaten at breakfast has changed the general perception of curry.
Apart from celebrity influence, there’s more to the widening gap of eating curry for breakfast every day. Many office-goers in Japan have long work shifts, necessitating the need to stay energized through a hearty breakfast. A bowl of curry is heavy and consists of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which makes it much easier to sustain energy levels for extended periods. More and more people are consuming curry as a breakfast staple not only at home, but there’s also an increasing availability at fast-food chains, local eateries, and Tokyo.
Recognized fast-food restaurants Matsuya and Yoshinoya have already noticed this change by introducing breakfast curry to their menus. This is beneficial for preoccupied employees who want a filling and nutritious meal at breakfast time but do not want to waste time preparing it. Even the C&C Restaurant, located in Shibuya, Tokyo, has made curry an essential part of their breakfast menu, allowing customers to add several types of meat, including chicken cutlets and eggs. This has been a central reason behind the flexibility and versatility of Japanese curry for breakfast.
For further information regarding the breakfast trends in Japan and fast food fads, Nikkei’s coverage serves as a resource hub for anyone delving into the topic.
The Reasoning Behind Breakfast Selections
Understanding the rationale behind why Japanese curry is ideal for breakfast requires considering the most nutritious meals of the day. A well-balanced first meal of the day usually consists of multiple macronutrients like protein, carbs, and fats so as to ensure energy is released gradually throughout the morning. Japanese curry is perfect for this.
Complex Carbohydrates for Energy
Rice, steamed as the centerpiece in Japanese curry, is an example of complex carbohydrates. Sugary cereals are an example of simple carbs. Unlike these simple carbs and sugary cereals, the body breaks down complex carbs slowly and provides energy gradually over time. This means that a breakfast of curry and rice allows a person to feel energized for longer without a mid-morning slump, which often accompanies high-sugar foods.
Protein for Sustained Satiety
That’s because protein aids in prolonging the feeling of hunger. This type of breakfast is common for many people – an early-morning Japanese curry, which is made with chicken or beef. These foods are sources of protein and aid in muscle mass as well as metabolic functions. For those who want a vegetarian option, chickpeas and other legumes work well as they provide the same satiety benefits.
Healthy Fats for Brain Function
Curry made with coconut milk or similar ingredients contains healthy fats which are necessary for one’s brain. Along with providing flavor, fat is also required in the body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K which are vital for one’s well-being. Healthy fats not only enhance the flavors of the dishes but also assist in keeping the individual satiated for extended periods of time.
Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds
Unique to Japanese curry, turmeric is a standout ingredient, and it’s also revered for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Including turmeric in the first meal of the day can ease inflammation and bolster immune function. A typical curry becomes a nutrient-dense superfood with the addition of turmeric and other spices like ginger and garlic, which aid in general health. Additional information about turmeric can be found in Medical News Today’s recent article.
Japan is known for its unique breakfast options, and for those who are interested in trying curry early in the day, these options will be very convenient:
Restaurants in Japan are known for serving food for breakfast, and curry is no exception.
- C&C Restaurant, Shibuya: Breakfast curry is a popular dish at this restaurant, with many locals raving about its affordability and flavor. This restaurant is known for its variety of curries, which can be paired with boiled eggs and fried chicken cutlets.
- Matsuya and Yoshinoya: These two fast-food chains have recently added breakfast curry to their morning menu. They prepare and serve it in such a way that it’s perfect for people on the go.
- Self-Contained Curry Houses: Independent family-run curry houses serve curry alongside other dishes. During your travels in Tokyo, it’s worthwhile to visit these places for the food and an authentic, cozy atmosphere.
If you do not have a chance to travel to Japan but are interested in bringing a taste of Japanese breakfast to your home, you can easily recreate the experience using homemade recipes or pre-cooked curry roux.
Self-Contained Breakfast Japanese Curry
Indian cuisine has one wonderful aspect, and that is the ease with which you can prepare and customize the dish to suit your family’s taste. It can also be served in the morning which greatly helps in spicing up breakfast. Here’s how to prepare it.
Using Pre-Made Curry Roux
S&B is a familiar brand known for serving pre-packaged curry. For people not willing to spend endless amounts of time spending several hours fiddling with pots, pre-cooked curry roux cubes offer an incredibly accessible way to get quality meals served within thirty minutes. The flavor provided by the sauces is greatly enhanced by their salt content. Balance the enhanced salts by adding extra vegetables or water.
Curry Made From Scratch
It is easy to make healthier choices when you prepare your meals from home. Start by creating a roux out of oil, flour, and spices like turmeric, curry powder, cumin, and coriander. This roux can build the base for your curry. To the base, add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers, along with a protein of your choice. There are countless options to experiment with when cooking from scratch. Cooking from home is healthier since you have control of the ingredients you use.
Meal Prep and Batch Cooking
One of the most common meals prepared in bulk is the Japanese curry. Portion it out the night before and store it in the fridge. This meal is a perfect ready-to-go breakfast as well. When reheating, serve it with freshly cooked rice for optimal taste. This breakfast can inspire many other similar dishes. For more ideas, make sure to check out Angie Recipes: Easy Breakfast Ideas.
Curry Types for Breakfast: Japanese Style
Curry can be enjoyed for breakfast. Here are some options tailored for the morning meal:
- Vegetarian: A vegetarian variant could include tofu or chickpeas along with zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. With this type of breakfast, one will undoubtedly feel energized throughout the morning as it is nourishing without being too heavy.
- Seafood: This type comes with shrimp or fish as the protein and is a good alternative to the traditional beef/pork/fowl enhanced curry. Japanese curry goes well with fish and contributes omega-3 fatty acids which are suitable for your heart and brain.
- Egg and Spinach: Another option could be soft-boiled eggs and spinach. Both ingredients add a unique twist to the traditional curry while also being healthy. Eggs are rich in protein and spinach provides iron along with numerous essential nutrients.
Steps to Personalize Your Breakfast Curry
Like most other curries, Japanese curry can be served with a variety of different sides and condiments to fit everyone’s taste.
- Grain Substitutes: With rice being the traditional accompaniment for Japanese curry, quinoa could be used instead of rice to add more fiber and a different texture to the meal. For those avoiding carbohydrates, serving the curry with cauliflower rice will be a light and healthy alternative.
- Incorporate Pickled Vegetables: Tsukemono, a type of Japanese pickle, can be served as a side and would accentuate the taste of the curry. The tangy and crunchy nature of pickles would provide balance to the curry’s gravy richness.
- Finishing Touches: With soy sauce, shredded cheese, and green onions accessible, breakfast curry can be garnished as desired. These delicious yet straightforward touches contribute to a multi-dimensional taste, making breakfast feel more exquisite.
- Method of Serving: Instead of the usual stew presentation, curry toast is made by spreading a thick layer of Japanese curry on lightly toasted bread, garnished with cheese, and briefly broiled. This creates a portable handheld breakfast, perfect for those short on time.
The Health Benefits of Consuming Curry for Breakfast
Curry can be an effective way to make breakfast healthier and is often known as Japanese breakfast curry. Breakfast is the most essential meal of the day and differs from other meals in the following ways:
- Enhanced Digestion: Ingredients used in Japanese curry, like garlic and ginger, are well known for having positive effects on one’s digestion. Consuming a well-flavored meal in the morning can also stimulate the release of digestive enzymes in the easy stomach to get things moving.
- Greater Immunity: Onions and turmeric are both excellent ingredients that will enhance one’s immunity. Consuming these ingredients on a regular basis will strengthen the body’s defense system which makes them essential during winter or flu season.
- Stable Blood Sugar Levels: Unlike sugary breakfast options, curries packed with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and other nutrients help avoid blood sugar spikes. This is very important for people with busy mornings, such as professionals or students, who need fuel to power them through the day ahead.
Expanded FAQs on Having Japanese Curry for Breakfast
Is Japanese Curry Too Much For Breakfast?
Certainly not. Japanese curry can feel heavy to some folks, especially those who are consuming it with a mountain of rice or oily meats. On the other hand, it can be equally lighter in nature if prepared with vegetables and lean protein. Thus making it healthy without being overly complicated.
What Are The Health Benefits of Having Curry for Breakfast?
Having any breakfast is good, but one which consists of turmeric, ginger, and garlic, which is well known for having anti-inflammatory properties and helps to provide vitamins and minerals with spices, coupled alongside a mighty filling meal of breakfast curry, has astonishing benefits.
How Can I Decrease The Sodium Intake in Store-Bought Curry?
Lessening the amount of sodium in pre-made curry is easy; simply add extra vegetables or water to dilute it. Another option is to make your own curry roux; that way, you have complete freedom with the amount of salt and make for a healthy meal.
Are There Vegetarian Options for Breakfast Curry?
Vegetarian versions of Japanese curry do exist, and they are just as good. Moreover, they can be tailored to different nutritional needs. These can also be made by adding veggies such as potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers alongside tofu or chickpeas.
Best Side Dishes To Accompany Breakfast Curry
For best results, Japanese breakfast curry should be served with soy-miso soup, soft-boiled eggs, or pickled vegetables. These side dishes add some balance by contrast in textures, tastes, and harmony that enhances the flavors not just in the curry but in your entire meal, too.
Conclusion
It is often said that having Japanese curry for breakfast is simply trendy, but it serves as a delicious, adaptable meal choice packed with nutrition. It aids in busting the rhythm of cereal and toasted bread. Having it in a restaurant in Tokyo or cooked at home, Japanese curry provides a mouth-watering combination of flavors that can lift your spirits in the morning. Along with balanced carbs, proteins, fats, and immune-boosting spices, Asa curry works wonders for those needing an exciting breakfast option.
For additional insight into Japanese breakfast culture, this guide on What Japanese People Eat for Breakfast breaks down traditional and modern options.
For more creative breakfast ideas, visit Angie Recipes’ guide on exciting morning dishes, and get inspired to bring variety and nutrition to your daily meals. Embrace Japanese curry for breakfast and enjoy a hearty, flavorful start to your day!