Curry Nanban Day

What Is Curry Nanban Day?

December 1st is "Curry Nanban Day" in Japan, marking the birthday of Torinosuke Kakuta, the second-generation owner of "Choshoan" in Nakameguro, Tokyo, credited with inventing curry nanban. It was established by the "Curry Udon 100th Anniversary Innovation Project."

A Japanese Noodle Dish Born From an Encounter of East and West

Curry nanban combines curry-flavored broth with udon or soba noodles, a dish that symbolizes the fusion of food cultures during the Meiji era.

• Origin: the holiday marks the birthday of Torinosuke Kakuta, credited with inventing curry nanban
• Purpose: to spread the history and appeal of curry nanban and curry udon to more people
• The origin of "nanban": theories vary on why dishes featuring green onion carry the name "nanban," including one connecting it to onions once introduced from abroad

A Fusion Flavor Dating Back to the Meiji Era

Curry nanban emerged from the fusion of curry, introduced from the West, with udon and soba, Japan's traditional noodle dishes -- a true symbol of East-meets-West cuisine.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Go out and enjoy curry nanban or curry udon
• Try making curry nanban at home
• Look into the difference between curry nanban and curry udon
• Learn about the history of curry nanban and who invented it

A Spicy Bowl Warms You From the Inside Out

As the cold deepens this time of year, noodles soaked in curry-flavored broth warm both body and heart. December 1st is a day to savor the appeal of curry nanban once again.