Is Japanese Curry High in Sugar? A Detailed Nutritional Breakdown

October 26, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a Reddit discussion, some packaged Japanese curry roux blocks contain sugar, with one brand listing it as the fourth ingredient. This raises a key question for health-conscious food lovers: is Japanese curry high in sugar, and where does its characteristic mild sweetness originate?

Quick Summary

Japanese curry's sweetness stems from added sugar in commercial roux and natural sugars from ingredients like sautéed onions, grated apples, and honey. Its total sugar content varies greatly depending on ingredients, cooking method, and brand, differing from spicier, less sweet curries.

Key Points

Pre-packaged Roux Contains Sugar: Commercial Japanese curry roux blocks often include added sugar, apple paste, and honey, which contributes significantly to the final dish's sweetness.
Homemade Offers Control: Making curry from scratch allows for complete control over the sugar content by omitting or minimizing added sweeteners like honey or fruit purees.
Natural Sweeteners are Common: Many recipes use naturally sweet ingredients like grated apples, caramelized onions, and carrots to achieve the desired flavor.
Japanese Curry is Milder: Compared to Indian or Thai curries, Japanese curry is typically much milder and sweeter, with a thicker, more gravy-like consistency.
Sugar Reduction is Possible: The sweetness can be balanced by adding acidic ingredients (lemon juice, vinegar), more spices, or using healthy alternatives for thickeners.
Nutritional Content Varies: The total sugar in a serving of Japanese curry varies widely based on brand, ingredients, and portion size, so checking nutrition labels is crucial.

The Origins of Sweetness in Japanese Curry

Japanese curry, known as kare raisu, is a beloved comfort food, distinct from its Indian and Thai counterparts due to its thick, stew-like consistency and milder, sweeter flavor profile. This unique sweetness is derived from several sources, both natural and added.

The Role of Curry Roux

Most Japanese curry is made from pre-packaged roux blocks. These blocks are a key source of added sugars and other flavor enhancers. A Quora user detailed the ingredients of one brand, which includes:

Sugar
Fruit paste (banana, honey, tomato)
Apple paste
Sauce powder (onion, tomato, carrot, apple, sugar)

The presence of multiple sweetened components within the roux explains a significant portion of the final dish's sugar content. Some brands may contain less sugar than others, and it is important to check the nutritional label of any product used.

Sweetening Agents in Traditional Recipes

Even in homemade recipes, sweetness is a cornerstone of the Japanese curry flavor. Common additions include:

Grated apple or pear: Fruit adds natural sweetness and helps thicken the sauce.
Honey: Often included for a richer, more complex sweetness.
Caramelized onions: Slow-cooked onions develop a natural, deep sweetness and umami flavor.
Ketchup or Tonkatsu sauce: These condiments, frequently added as "secret ingredients" or kakushiaji, contain added sugars and fruit concentrates.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Controlling Sugar Intake

Opting for a homemade curry from scratch offers far more control over the sugar content than using a pre-packaged roux block. Making your own curry involves preparing a roux from flour and fat, and then adding spices. This allows you to completely eliminate or minimize added sweeteners like honey or fruit purees. For those seeking even healthier alternatives, some chefs use low-carb thickeners and sugar substitutes.

Comparison of Curry Types

To put the sugar content of Japanese curry into perspective, it helps to compare it with other popular curry styles.


Feature	Japanese Curry	Indian Curry	Thai Curry
Sweetness	Mild to sweet	Often complex, savory; can be sweet depending on regional variations	Balanced sweetness from ingredients like coconut milk and palm sugar
Spice Level	Generally very mild	Ranges from mild to very spicy	Often very spicy, though varies by type
Base	Thick, gravy-like, often roux-based	Varies greatly (e.g., tomato, yogurt, coconut milk)	Lighter, broth-based (e.g., coconut milk)
Sugar Source	Packaged roux, caramelized onions, fruit, honey	Can use honey, sugar, or coconut milk, but less common for overall sweetness	Often palm sugar, coconut milk, and other sweetened ingredients

How to Reduce Sugar in Japanese Curry

For those who prefer a less sweet curry or are managing sugar intake, several strategies can help:

Use homemade roux: Instead of the pre-made blocks, create your own roux with flour and butter or a healthier oil. You can then add sugar-free or low-sugar seasonings.
Embrace acidity: A splash of lemon juice or rice vinegar at the end of cooking can cut through the sweetness and add a bright counterpoint.
Add tanginess: Incorporate a small amount of tomato paste or a low-sugar ketchup.
Increase spices: Boosting the heat with a little extra curry powder or chili flakes can help balance the sweetness.
Utilize a sugar substitute: If you need some sweetness, consider a granulated sugar substitute for baking, but start with a small amount.
Select your ingredients carefully: Use carrots and onions that are not overly sweet. For a healthier fat source, consider using vegetable oil instead of a full-fat roux.

Conclusion: Navigating Sweetness in Japanese Curry

Is Japanese curry high in sugar? The answer is nuanced. While its trademark mild and sweet flavor relies on both natural and added sugars, the total sugar content is highly dependent on the recipe and ingredients used. Many commercially prepared curry roux blocks do contain significant amounts of added sugar, but homemade versions offer far greater control for those monitoring their intake. By using fresh ingredients, adjusting sweetening agents, and adding balancing elements like acidity and spice, it is entirely possible to enjoy the rich flavor of Japanese curry with less sugar.

For a deeper dive into making your own curry from scratch, consider consulting a trusted resource like Just One Cookbook.

Final Takeaway

Japanese curry’s sweetness is a key characteristic, but it’s manageable. Understanding the sugar sources—from pre-made roux to homemade additions—allows you to tailor the dish to your nutritional needs without sacrificing flavor. With smart adjustments, this hearty meal can be part of a balanced diet.

A Final Note for Home Cooks

When preparing Japanese curry, remember that a little sweetness goes a long way. Start with minimal sweetening agents and adjust to taste, using sour or spicy flavors to balance the profile as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Japanese curry was adapted to be milder and sweeter for the Japanese palate, originally introduced via the British. It often uses sweetening agents like grated apples or honey, which are less common in most Indian curries.

Yes, if you make your own roux from scratch, you can control the amount of sugar added. You can use naturally sweet ingredients like caramelized onions or grated apple for flavor, and a sugar substitute for sweetness if desired.

For a low-sugar alternative, make a homemade roux, substitute potatoes with lower-carb vegetables like parsnips, and use sugar substitutes instead of honey or fruit pastes. A splash of vinegar or lemon juice can also balance the flavor.

Many popular pre-packaged roux brands contain added sugars and other sweetening agents. It is important to check the nutritional information and ingredient list on the specific brand you are using, as content can vary.

Kakushiaji refers to "hidden taste" ingredients added to a dish to enhance flavor subtly. In Japanese curry, these often include small amounts of ketchup, soy sauce, or other condiments, which can contribute to the sugar content.

If your curry becomes too sweet, you can balance it by adding an acidic ingredient like lime juice or vinegar, increasing the spice level with chili flakes, or adding a savory element like more spices or a tomato paste.

The healthiness of Japanese curry is varied. While it contains nutritious vegetables, commercially prepared roux can be high in calories, fats, and sugars, making it best enjoyed in moderation. Healthier versions are possible by controlling ingredients and portion sizes.