Golden curry is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting tradition found in homes across Japan and beyond. This mildly spicy and subtly sweet golden curry recipe uses a rich roux to deliver bold flavor with minimal effort, making it one of the most beloved weeknight meals. With easy-to-use curry blocks, even basic pantry ingredients are transformed into something crave-worthy.
Whether you’re a first-time cook or a seasoned curry enthusiast, this guide will walk you through best practices for preparing the ultimate golden curry recipe. From choosing the right ingredients to mastering key techniques like melting the roux and balancing sauce texture, you’ll learn how to create a deeply satisfying meal every time.
If you’re new to Japanese cooking, this easy Japanese recipe collection offers more simple and delicious inspiration.
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Essential Ingredients for the Best Golden Curry Recipe

The beauty of a golden curry recipe lies in its simplicity. Curry roux blocks come pre-mixed with spices and thickeners, so you only need a few additional ingredients to bring everything to life.
Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Golden curry roux blocks | 1 package | Choose spice level to taste |
Yellow onion | 1 large | Thinly sliced |
Carrots | 2 | Thick rounds |
Potatoes | 2 medium | Bite-sized chunks |
Boneless chicken thighs | 1 lb | Cut into 1-inch pieces |
Water | 3 cups | Adjust for desired consistency |
Cooking oil | 2 tbsp | Neutral oils like canola or avocado |
Optional veggies | As desired | Mushrooms, peas, green beans, corn |
Steamed rice or udon | For serving | Perfect base for your golden curry |
Vegetarians can swap in tofu or chickpeas, and seafood fans might prefer shrimp. Seasonal veggies like squash or daikon absorb the curry flavor beautifully.
How to Make the Perfect Golden Curry Recipe – Step-by-Step

1. Sauté Aromatics and Meat
In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add chicken and brown lightly on all sides. This builds a savory base for your golden curry recipe.
For another hearty one-pot dish, try this flavorful chicken and yellow rice recipe.
2. Add Vegetables and Simmer
Stir in carrots and potatoes. Add 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, skimming foam as needed. This softens the vegetables and infuses flavor.
3. Dissolve the Curry Roux
Don’t toss in the curry blocks directly—this can cause clumping. Instead, dissolve each block in a ladle of hot broth before stirring it into the pot. This step ensures a smooth and even golden curry sauce.
4. Simmer to Thicken and Serve
Let the golden curry simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes more. Stir occasionally. Adjust thickness with more water or by simmering longer. Serve over rice or udon with toppings like parsley, pickled radish, or a soft-boiled egg.
Why This Golden Curry Recipe is Perfect for Any Skill Level
This golden curry recipe is ideal for beginners because the roux blocks handle the complex seasoning for you. Plus, it reheats well and tastes even better the next day—great for meal prepping.
You can also get creative and add grilled meat from this Blackstone hibachi recipe for a fusion twist.
Pro Tips & Creative Variations

- Use Stock or Dashi: Swap water for more flavor.
- Boost Umami: Add soy sauce, miso, or Worcestershire.
- Citrus Finish: A splash of lemon or rice vinegar brightens the curry.
- Add Creaminess: Stir in coconut milk or cream.
- Change Proteins: Tofu, beef, ground turkey, or seafood all work well.
FAQs About Golden Curry Recipe
How do you make golden curry?
Sauté onions and meat, add veggies and water, simmer, then stir in dissolved curry blocks. Simmer again and serve with rice or noodles.
What’s the best golden curry to water ratio?
Use 3 cups of water per 100g curry block. Adjust for desired thickness.
Why is my golden curry not thickening?
Simmer longer or mash some potatoes. You can also use a cornstarch slurry if needed.
Is golden curry spicy?
It’s usually mild. Check the packaging for heat levels or add spice to taste.
Can I freeze golden curry?
Yes! Cool it first, then freeze in airtight containers for up to two months.

Golden Curry Recipe: A Comforting Classic with a Flavorful Twist
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Japanese golden curry recipe is a weeknight lifesaver—savory, mildly spiced, and rich in umami. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a silky curry sauce made from roux blocks, it’s a one-pot meal that’s quick, easy, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
1 package golden curry roux blocks (choose your preferred spice level)
1 tbsp cooking oil (canola or avocado)
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
2 medium potatoes, diced into bite-sized chunks
1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (or use tofu or shrimp)
3 cups water (or low-sodium chicken broth for extra flavor)
Optional veggies: mushrooms, peas, corn, green beans
Steamed rice or udon, for serving
Instructions
Sauté the Base
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent (4–5 minutes). Add chicken and lightly brown all sides.Simmer the Vegetables
Add carrots, potatoes, and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, skimming off any foam.Dissolve the Curry Roux
Break curry blocks into smaller pieces. Using a ladle, dissolve them in some hot broth from the pot, then stir into the curry. This prevents clumping.Simmer to Thicken
Let the curry simmer uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.
Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot over steamed rice or udon noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley, pickled radish, or a soft-boiled egg for extra flair.
Notes
- Vegetarian version: Use tofu and vegetable broth instead of chicken.
- Extra umami? Add 1 tsp soy sauce or a splash of Worcestershire.
- Creamy twist: Stir in ¼ cup coconut milk before serving.
- Storage: Keeps 4 days in the fridge or freeze up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: ~390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: ~880mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Conclusion: The Golden Curry Recipe You’ll Keep Coming Back To
This golden curry recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. Its creamy texture, savory flavor, and endless customization options make it a standout meal for any night of the week. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll have a reliable go-to dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.