This Slow Cooker Japanese Beef Curry could not be any easier! A one pot, make-ahead comfort dish with pieces of chunky steak that fall apart in your mouth and a rich, umami gravy.

In the realm of hearty comfort foods, few dishes can match the warmth and satisfaction of a well-made Japanese curry. With its rich flavours and aromatic spices, Japanese curry has earned its place as a beloved staple in households and restaurants alike. With ingredients like curry roux cubes readily available in the supermarket, it's possible for all of us to enjoy this delicious dish right at home.

A Brief History of Curry in Japanese Cuisine

Japanese curry has a fascinating history that dates back to the late 19th century when it was introduced to Japan by way of British naval officers. Initially regarded as a foreign novelty, curry gradually found its place in Japanese cuisine, evolving into a distinct culinary tradition. Unlike its Indian or Thai counterparts, Japanese curry is milder in heat but abundant in flavour, often featuring a delightful balance of sweetness and spice.

Over the years, Japanese curry has become deeply ingrained in the nation's culinary landscape, finding its way into homes, school cafeterias, and even fast-food chains. It's a dish that transcends generations, cherished for its comforting qualities and versatility in accommodating various ingredients.

The Magic of Curry Roux Cubes

One of the secrets behind the convenience of Japanese curry at home lies in the ingenious invention of curry roux cubes. These compact blocks of concentrated flavour are a time-saving solution that simplifies the curry-making process without compromising on taste.

Curry roux cubes typically consist of a blend of spices, flour, and fat, forming a thick paste that serves as the base for the curry sauce. With a single cube, you can effortlessly infuse your dish with layers of depth and complexity, transforming humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

The cubes are usually added at the end, after you've cooked your vegetables and protein. Add water, and then simply dissolve them in the hot liquid, and stir until smooth. The result is a thick and rich curry sauce. Whether you opt for beef, chicken, or vegetables, the result is always a luscious curry that delights the senses.

Alternatively, curry udon is another popular and delicious way to use curry roux cubes!

Slow Cooker Beef Japanese Curry: My New Favourite Way to Cook Curry

Usually I serve Japanese curry with a panko crumbed pork or chicken cutlet. However I recently came across a beef version over on Instagram, funnily enough cooked in a rice cooker? I tried a version of this recipe in my slow cooker (and also once in my pressure cooker when I was extra short on time) and I am in love!

The marriage of slow cooking and Japanese curry is a match made in heaven. By harnessing the gentle heat of a slow cooker, you allow the flavours to meld and deepen over time, yielding a dish that is tender, aromatic, and bursting with savoury goodness. This is the ultimate one pot, make ahead of time dish. You are quite literally throwing everything into your slow cooker and leaving it alone for four hours. How perfect!

Ingredients

Carrots
Potato
Brown onion
Tomatoes
Beef chuck steak
Japanese curry roux cubes
Butter
Espresso
Water
Rice, for serving

See recipe card below for quantities.

Tips and variations

Beef: you can use 500g of any cut of beef that can take on the slow cooking process. Blade or skirt steak are other options.
Vegetables: do not cut your vegetables too small, large chunks and big wedges is fine. Otherwise the vegetables will completely dissolve over the cooking process.
Alternative cooking methods: I've also cooked this curry in my pressure cooker over 30 minutes so if you are particularly short on time, this is a great alternative to slow cooking.

Equipment

Knife
Chopping board
Slow cooker
Spoon

Watch the video here. If you make this one, don't forget to tag me on TikTok or Instagram. I love to see it!