Kaori Simpson's Go-To Dish for Comfort and Flavor

Kaori Simpson, the renowned Japanese chef and culinary artist, has shared her favorite comfort dish that combines the flavors of her homeland with the techniques she has mastered in international kitchens. This dish is a true testament to her culinary skills and ability to create dishes that are both comforting and deeply satisfying.

My Favorite Dish: Japanese Curry with Udon Noodles

Japanese curry, known as "kare" in Japanese, is a popular dish that has become a staple in homes and restaurants around the world. It is characterized by its rich, savory sauce made from a blend of spices, vegetables, and meat. Kaori's version of Japanese curry adds a unique twist by incorporating udon noodles, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
* 1 pound ground pork
* 2 tablespoons Japanese curry powder
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon mirin
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* 1 cup dashi (Japanese broth)
* 1 pound udon noodles, cooked
* Toppings (optional): shredded cheese, hard-boiled egg, green onions

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, potatoes, and ground pork, and cook until the pork is browned.
4. Stir in the curry powder, soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and dashi.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the cooked udon noodles and heat through.
7. Serve immediately, topped with your desired toppings.

Tips from Kaori:

* For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground pork and ground beef.
* If you don't have dashi, you can substitute vegetable or chicken broth.
* Add some thinly sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and crunch.
* For a vegetarian version, omit the ground pork and use extra vegetables.

Conclusion:

Kaori Simpson's Japanese Curry with Udon Noodles is a dish that perfectly embodies her culinary philosophy. It is a dish that is both comforting and flavorful, and it showcases her ability to blend traditional Japanese flavors with international techniques. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or a home cook looking for a new favorite dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.