Curry Bread Recipe: Delicious Homemade Japanese Bread

Introduction

Embarking on the culinary journey of bread-making often reveals a world of flavors and textures that can elevate simple ingredients into extraordinary creations. Among these, Curry Bread stands out as a captivating blend of aromatic spices, nutty crunch, and subtle sweetness, delivering a savory experience that excites the palate. This recipe, meticulously crafted for a breadmaker capable of producing a 1½-pound loaf, offers an effortless way to enjoy freshly baked Curry Bread right in your own kitchen. As featured on Love With Recipes, this dish is not only appealing for its unique flavor profile but also for its ease of preparation, making it an excellent choice for bread enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Curry Bread is a versatile addition to any meal, whether as a snack, a side for your favorite curry dishes, or as part of a brunch spread. Its fragrant aroma, combined with the crunchy peanuts, moist coconut, and warming curry spices, makes it a memorable centerpiece on your dining table. By integrating spices and textures thoughtfully, this recipe transforms ordinary bread into a multi-layered culinary delight. In the sections ahead, you’ll discover detailed instructions, tips, and tricks to perfect your loaf, as well as nutritional insights and ideas for pairing and storage.

Time

The total preparation and baking process for this Curry Bread recipe takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, making it perfect for a leisurely weekend baking session or a planned meal. The bread machine handles the majority of the work, with the active hands-on time being minimal.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Rising and Baking Time: approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Note: Using the bread machine’s timer feature can help you schedule the baking to coincide with your mealtime, ensuring fresh, warm bread without needing to wait.

Needed Equipment

To successfully prepare this Curry Bread, gather the following equipment:

• Bread Machine: Capable of handling a 1½-pound loaf (most standard bread machines support this size)
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurement
• Kitchen Scale (Optional): For accurate weighing of dry ingredients, especially useful for baking precision
• Rubber Spatula or Spoon: For scraping ingredients if necessary
• Cooling Rack: To cool the bread evenly after baking
• Plastic Wrap or Kitchen Towel: To cover the bread during cooling

Additional optional tools include a bread knife for slicing and a pastry brush if you wish to brush the crust with butter for extra richness.

Tags

These tags describe the recipe’s characteristics and suitable occasions:

• Breadmaking
• Savory Bread
• Spiced Bread
• Nutty & Coconut Infused
• Easy Bread Recipe
• Breadmaker Recipe
• Asian-inspired
• Comfort Food
• Party Snack
• Gluten-Moderate

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 16 slices, serving about 4 to 6 people depending on portion sizes. Ideal for sharing at gatherings, or for enjoying over multiple meals, the bread’s flavorful profile makes it a versatile component for various dining occasions.

Difficulty Level

This Curry Bread recipe is classified as easy, suitable for beginner to intermediate breadmakers. Its straightforward steps and reliance on the bread machine streamline the process, minimizing mess and manual kneading. Even novice bakers will find success with careful ingredient measurements and adherence to instructions.

Allergen Information

This recipe contains several common allergens:

• Gluten: Present in bread flour
• Nuts: Roasted peanuts
• Coconut: Flaked coconut
• Dairy: Butter and margarine (can be substituted with dairy-free alternatives)
• Sugar: Contains added sugar (not an allergen but noteworthy for dietary restrictions)

Ensure to check ingredient labels if using store-bought products to avoid cross-contamination or hidden allergens. For allergy-sensitive diets, substitutions are recommended.

Dietary Preference

This recipe is suitable for vegetarian diets. It does not contain meat or fish products. However, it is not vegan due to butter, margarine, and possibly dairy in margarine. For vegan adaptations, substitute with plant-based margarine or oils.

Course

This dish best fits into the bread and bakery course. It can serve as a main bread component, a snack, or part of a brunch spread.

Cuisine

While inspired by global flavors, this Curry Bread aligns closely with Asian fusion, particularly drawing from Indian and Southeast Asian spice profiles, combined with Western bread-making techniques.

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by organizing all ingredients and ensuring they are at room temperature where necessary. Accurate measurement is critical in bread-making, especially for yeast activation and dough consistency. Use measuring cups and spoons, or a digital kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour, sugar, and nuts.

Set out the butter and margarine to soften slightly if refrigerated, which aids in mixing and incorporation. Measure the water, ensuring it is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast, ideally around 105°F to 110°F (40°C). If using a thermometer, verify the temperature for optimal yeast activation.

Step 2: Loading the Bread Machine

Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific bread machine model, but generally, the order of ingredients is critical. For most machines, begin with the liquids: water first, then butter and margarine. Pour these into the bread pan carefully to prevent spillage.

Add the salt next, spreading it evenly over the liquids to prevent direct contact with the yeast later. Then, add the bread flour, ensuring it covers the liquids completely, creating a barrier to keep the yeast dry initially.

Sprinkle the curry powder over the flour, distributing it evenly for a uniform flavor infusion. Incorporate the sugar into the flour, which will feed the yeast and promote proper rising.

Mix in the flaked coconut and roasted peanuts, distributing them evenly over the flour layer. These ingredients add texture and flavor, so ensure they are well incorporated into the flour layer.

Finally, add the yeast on top of the dry ingredients, making sure it does not come into direct contact with liquids to ensure proper activation during mixing.

Step 3: Selecting the Baking Cycle

Close the bread machine lid securely. Select the “Basic” or “White Bread” cycle, which typically includes mixing, kneading, rising, and baking phases suitable for this recipe. Set the crust color to “Medium” for a golden exterior.

If your machine has a “Delayed Timer” or “Timed Bake” feature, program it to finish just before your desired serving time. This allows you to wake up or arrive home to freshly baked bread.

Start the machine. During the kneading phase, the ingredients will combine into a uniform dough, and the gluten structure will develop, which is essential for a soft yet sturdy loaf.

Step 4: Baking and Cooling

Allow the bread machine to complete its cycle. The process typically lasts around 3 hours, during which the machine will knead, rise, and bake the bread to perfection. Do not open the lid during the baking cycle unless the machine explicitly instructs you to do so.

Once baking is complete, carefully remove the bread pan from the machine. Use oven mitts to avoid burns. Transfer the loaf onto a cooling rack immediately to prevent the crust from becoming soggy due to residual condensation.

Allow the bread to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps set the crumb and makes slicing cleaner. Use a serrated bread knife for even slices, revealing the beautiful texture and internal spiced swirl.

Preparation Tips

• Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Freshly ground curry powder yields a more vibrant aroma and taste.
• Adjusting Spices: Feel free to modify the amount of curry powder based on your spice preference. For milder bread, reduce to 1 teaspoon; for more heat, increase accordingly.
• Adding Extra Flavors: Consider stirring in finely chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley for additional freshness.
• Nut Substitutes: For allergy concerns, substitute roasted peanuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
• Ensuring Even Distribution: When adding nuts and coconut, gently fold them into the dough after the initial mixing phase if your machine allows, to prevent settling at the bottom.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhancing Flavor: Toast the peanuts and coconut lightly before adding to bring out deeper flavors.
• Moisture Balance: If the dough feels too dry or too sticky during kneading, adjust with small amounts of water or flour accordingly.
• Crust Coloring: For a darker crust, select the “Dark” setting if available, or brush the crust with milk or butter before baking.
• Storing the Dough: You can prepare the dough in advance, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh the next day by using the “Dough” cycle and then baking in the oven.

Add-ons

Experiment with additional ingredients to customize your Curry Bread:

• Chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, basil, or mint)
• Shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
• Other nuts (cashews, almonds)
• Additional spices (garlic powder, turmeric)
• Sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist

Side Dishes

This flavorful bread pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

• Indian curries (chicken tikka masala, vegetable korma)
• Spicy Asian stir-fries
• Hearty soups (lentil, butternut squash)
• Salads with Asian-inspired dressings
• Cheese and charcuterie boards for appetizers

Improvements

For an even richer flavor, consider the following enhancements:

• Brush the baked loaf with melted butter or ghee for a glossy, flavorful crust.
• Add a pinch of turmeric for color and health benefits.
• Incorporate a teaspoon of ginger powder for extra warmth.
• Use toasted spices in the dough for a deeper aroma.
• Mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a surprising sweet contrast.

Save and Store

Proper storage ensures your Curry Bread remains fresh and flavorful:

• Room Temperature: Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but note that refrigeration may dry out the bread.
• Freezing: Slice the bread and freeze in resealable bags for up to 3 months. Toast slices directly from the freezer for quick snacks.

To reheat, warm the loaf in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I make this bread vegan?

Yes, substitute the butter and margarine with plant-based oils or vegan margarine. Ensure the yeast is vegan-friendly, and verify all other ingredients for hidden animal derivatives.

Can I bake this in an oven instead of a bread machine?

Absolutely. Prepare the dough manually by mixing, kneading, and proofing in a warm spot for about 1 to 2 hours. Shape the dough into a loaf, place in a greased pan, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Traditional wheat-based bread cannot be directly substituted with gluten-free flours without adjustments. For gluten-sensitive individuals, consider using gluten-free bread flour blends and additional binding agents like xanthan gum.

Can I add more curry powder for a spicier flavor?

Yes, increase the curry powder gradually, tasting as you go, but keep in mind that too much can overpower the bread’s texture and balance.

What are some good variations?

Try adding shredded cooked chicken for a savory twist, or mix in chopped green chilies for extra heat. Incorporate different nuts or dried fruits to create unique flavor combinations.

Conclusion

This Curry Bread recipe exemplifies the harmony of spices, nuts, and coconut integrated into a soft, aromatic loaf. Its straightforward preparation, thanks to the bread machine, makes it accessible even for those new to baking. The result is a versatile bread that complements a wide range of dishes or stands confidently on its own as a snack or light meal. Whether serving at a casual family gathering, a festive brunch, or simply indulging in a flavorful homemade bread, this recipe is sure to impress. Remember, the key to perfect Curry Bread lies in quality ingredients, precise measurements, and a touch of creativity in flavor adjustments. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat, and let it become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire, as featured on Love With Recipes.