Nibo Keema Curry: A delicious local curry that combines dried sardines and keema curry (Aomori Prefecture)

Nibo Keema Curry, a fusion of niboshi and keema curry, has recently gained popularity in Aomori Prefecture, the birthplace of niboshi ramen.

This time, we will be introducing a taste review of this delicious local curry, Nibo Keema Curry, which can also be ordered online.


What is Nibo Keema Curry?

Nibo Keema Curry is a dried sardine flavored keema curry served at JUSTINE COFFEE, a restaurant in Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture

Nibo Keema Curry

Some people may think, "It's hard to imagine the combination of keema curry and dried sardines..." but in fact, it's a surprisingly good match!


Curry and fish stock, loved overseas

"Curry x dried fish stock" is actually a classic combination in Sri Lanka, the home of curry

The fish used in Sri Lanka is a type of dried bonito called "Maldives Fish." Its shape and manufacturing method are similar to Japanese dried bonito, and it is known for adding a rich flavor to curry when powdered.

The relationship between Maldives Fish and curry is also mentioned in the "Curry Battle" chapter of volume 24 of the famous gourmet manga "Oishinbo," where the main character, Shiro Yamaoka,



is astonished, saying, "Wow... I never knew that dried bonito was the deciding factor in the flavor of Sri Lankan curry!"

If bonito flakes go well with curry, then dried sardines should go well too!

So I'm looking forward to trying it with great anticipation


Actual food review

Until now, Nibo Keema Curry could only be ordered via refrigerated delivery, but a room temperature version was just released in October 2022.
The photo below shows the retort version of Nibo Keema Curry.

Nibo Keema Curry Package

The word "Nibo Khima" written in Roman letters is very stylish. Let's open it right away!

The package included curry roux and dried sardine powder for finishing

Most instant curry products require heating in a hot water bath or by transferring the contents to a plate, but this one only requires heating in the microwave! It's the perfect type for someone like me who doesn't like to bother with cooking.

After serving rice on a plate, pour the curry over it and it's ready.

It's exciting because it's filled with large chunks of minced meat

The roux already contains dried sardine powder, so try a bite first without adding any powder

It has a mild spiciness and a familiar flavor that is enjoyed by both adults and children. The minced meat tastes strong, and at this point it is already incomparable to the ready-made curry you usually eat

Next, I sprinkled a generous amount of dried sardine powder on it

Niboshi enhances the flavor of curry! The main ingredient is curry, and niboshi plays a role like a foundation that supports the curry's umami, making it a flavor that is more to the liking of Japanese people.

If you want to experience the aroma of niboshi even more, we recommend sprinkling the powder directly on rice, which will bring out the aroma and allow you to enjoy both flavors to the fullest.


Delicious recipe: Keema Toast

I also tried making the recipe that was featured in the enclosed leaflet.
It's a simple recipe that just requires you to put nibo keema and cheese on toast and put it in the toaster.

The curry and cheese each have their own distinct flavors, which are perfectly complemented by the toast. It's a simple yet highly-finished dish, and it makes you feel like you're eating toast from a stylish cafe, even in the comfort of your own home. This is a highly recommended arrangement


in conclusion

Aomori's new specialty, Nibo Keema Curry, is an addictive local curry that uses the flavor of dried sardines, familiar to Japanese people, to enhance the delicious flavor of the keema curry

Niboritan is recommended for the following people!

  • I like dried sardines
  • I like curry
  • Looking for a unique Aomori souvenir?

For those who love dried sardines, we also recommend "Niboritan," a combination of dried sardines and Neapolitan that was released at the same time as Niboshi Keema Curry.
Be sure to give it a try.


JUSTINE COFFEE<Information>

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