health
Emiko Davies’ Japanese curry rice (kare raisu)
The Australian-born cook and author shares her recipe for a thick, fragrant Japanese curry – with one secret ingredient

TL;DR
- Japanese curry (kare raisu) is a western-influenced dish with a history tied to the British Royal Navy.
- It became a staple in Japanese naval and army kitchens, later entering homes and schools, and is now considered a national dish.
- The curry is characterized by its thick consistency, suitable for eating with rice.
- Modern Japanese curry often uses packet mixes, with home cooks adding secret ingredients for sweetness or depth.
- A recipe for Japanese curry is provided, featuring pork, vegetables, spices, and a surprise ingredient of dark chocolate.
- Instructions for making dashi stock, a key component, are also included.