The Surprising Vegetarian-Friendliness of S&B
Many consumers are surprised to learn that a significant portion of S&B's Japanese curry products, including their popular Golden Curry roux blocks, do not contain meat-derived ingredients and are suitable for vegetarians. Instead of animal fats or broths, these roux blocks typically use a combination of vegetable oils, wheat flour, and a proprietary blend of curry powder and spices. This makes them a convenient and flavorful base for a variety of plant-based dishes. However, this is not a universal rule for all S&B products, and being a savvy shopper is crucial to ensure your choice aligns with your dietary needs.
How to Identify a Vegetarian S&B Curry Product
To ensure you are selecting a vegetarian option, pay close attention to the packaging and product details. S&B has made this easier for many of their products by explicitly labeling them as vegetarian or vegan, especially on items intended for international markets or specialized diets.
- Look for 'No Meat Contained' Labeling: Many boxes of S&B Golden Curry will have a clear, prominent label on the front or side that states "No meat contained". This is the most straightforward indicator.
- Read the Ingredients List: The ingredients list is the ultimate source of truth. Check for obvious animal products like meat extracts, beef fat, or lard. S&B's ingredients typically feature vegetable oils (like palm or rapeseed oil), wheat flour, salt, and spices.
- Seek Specific Vegetarian/Vegan Products: S&B manufactures specific product lines for plant-based diets, such as their "Instant Plant Based Golden Curry" or the "Vegan Curry Mix in Flakes". These are explicitly certified and leave no room for doubt.
- Beware of Regional Differences: Product formulations can vary by country. Some international markets might have different ingredient standards. For example, some specialized vegetarian products might be sold only in certain regions. Always check the packaging for the country you are in.
Not All S&B Curries Are Vegetarian
While many of the company's popular roux blocks are vegetarian, not all S&B products are. Some ready-made or specialty curries may contain meat or seafood. It is also important to note that even if a product is vegetarian, it may contain other ingredients some people avoid, such as MSG, which is common in many Japanese curry mixes. Always review the label carefully, especially with less common or pre-made curry versions.
Comparison of S&B Curry Products
| Feature | Golden Curry Sauce Mix (Standard) | Instant Plant Based Golden Curry | Oriental Curry Powder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetarian-Friendly | Often yes (confirm label) | Explicitly Yes | Yes (confirm ingredients) |
| Form | Solid roux blocks | Ready-to-eat instant pack | Powder |
| Convenience | High (add to stew) | Very high (heat and serve) | Medium (add to recipe) |
| Flavor Profile | Balanced, rich, savory | Plant-based, rich, authentic | Authentic curry spice blend |
| Cooking Style | Standard stovetop curry | Quick meal over rice | Use in roux or as a seasoning |
Creating a Delicious Vegetarian Meal with S&B
Cooking a vegetarian Japanese curry with S&B is straightforward and delicious. You will need one pack of the vegetarian S&B Golden Curry mix. A base of aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and potatoes is standard. For a more substantial meal, you can incorporate other ingredients.
Ingredients:
- One pack vegetarian S&B Golden Curry mix
- 200g onion, minced
- 200g potatoes, cubed
- 150g carrots, sliced
- 540ml water
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Optional additions: Mushrooms, eggplant, zucchini, broccoli, tofu, or soy curls
Instructions:
- Stir-fry the onion in vegetable oil in a large pot until softened.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and other hearty vegetables (like mushrooms) and stir-fry for a few minutes.
- Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender.
- Turn off the heat. Break the curry roux block into pieces and add to the pot. Stir until the roux is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Turn the heat back on low and simmer until the curry has thickened to your desired consistency. Add any quick-cooking vegetables like spinach or edamame during this step.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
This basic recipe is a great starting point for customizing your own vegetarian Japanese curry. For inspiration, S&B's own website features several plant-based recipes, such as their Vegetable Curry recipe on S&B Foods Worldwide.
Conclusion
For those wondering, "Is S&B Japanese curry vegetarian?", the answer is a reassuring "often, yes, but always check." While many of their popular Golden Curry products are free of meat ingredients, S&B also provides dedicated vegetarian and vegan options for extra assurance. By reading labels and looking for clear vegetarian indicators, you can enjoy a quick and authentic Japanese curry at home without any animal products. With its rich flavor and simple preparation, it remains a fantastic option for a satisfying meat-free meal.
