Indian Cuisine in the Land of the Rising Sun

 In Japan, when we think of Indian food, we usually think of Curry, Rice, or Nan. However, Indian Cuisine is much more than that. Let’s take a gourmet trip through Indian food.

India’s diversity reflects in its Cuisine. Every region has unique indigenous ingredients that lend it its exotic flavor.

Broadly, the primary distinction in India’s Cuisine is between North Indian and South Indian Cuisine.  For example, delicacies prepared in the northern portion of the country differ significantly from those prepared in the southern half.

Despite the mélange of Indian cuisines, several eating, serving, and preparing food mannerisms and etiquettes are practically universal across the country. In that way, food is a unifying factor in India, bringing various communities together.

Returning to Japan, we have Karē, the Japanese version of Curry that has grown in popularity over the years. Karē is often made with a combination of meat and vegetables stewed in a delicious sauce of spices and herbs. It is typically served with rice and pickled veggies or other side dishes.

The main differences between Japanese Karē vs. Indian Curry are as below:

The flavor profile is one of the fundamental variations between Karē and Indian Curry. While Indian Curry is noted for its powerful, spicy flavors, Karē is often softer, sweeter, and has a subtle depth of flavor.

The consistency of the sauce is another distinction between Karē and Indian Curry. Indian Curry is frequently thick, whereas Karē is usually thin and broth-like.

Last but not least, the cooking method varies, with Japanese Karē often simmered over low heat and Indian Curry typically prepared swiftly over high heat.  

 

Despite the differences, Indian food’s popularity among the Japanese population is evident from the many Indian restaurants available across the country. It is tough to miss home food on a trip to Japan with so many options. I am grateful for this love as it gives me a vast range of vegetarian options on my frequent trips to Tokyo.

 

Also, here are the Indian restaurant options around the Shinagawa-Toktyo area, where you can enjoy an array of Indian cuisines.

Restaurant (Links to Location)	Specialty
New Delhi	In our NTT Finance Building itself. Good North Indian Food
Jharana	Great South Indian Food Very close to the NTT Annex office
Spice Lounge	A good option for Biryani Great for team events with seating area on the river-front
Devi Corner	Known for Curry and Cheese Nan Mind the spice level though

 

Bon Appétit!

-- Sanjay Ishwarlal Upadhyay