Japanese Curry is Crazy Good!

Now I promise I'll tone it down soon with the Japanese cuisine, but I just can't help but share with you the fabulous culinary adventures I had the pleasure to experience there.  In this post, I'll keep things casual by telling you about a little snack Dan and I tried in Kyoto, on our way to the most magnificent landmark called Kiyomizu-Dera, an old Buddhist temple that dates back to 798 (no that's not a typo), with the most magnificent views of the city.  Now that's history!

On our way to Kiyomizu, we passed by a narrow touristy street called Matsubara Dori (dori means street), and saw many tantalizing foods and snacks, such as soba, various types of teas, sweets and even these puffy dumplings with curry inside that you see above.  It was lust at first sight and we decided to get one before reaching the temple, as our tummies were starting to grumble.

Fried Dumpling with Curry - Already tasting Japanese curry in Tokyo, I was excited to have it again here and was curious how it'd stack up.  Generally, Japanese curry is milder than Thai or Indian curry that we're more used to here.  I think it's also a bit thicker and substantial.  

Well, needless the say, the fried dumpling and the creamy curry inside were the perfect food marriage.  The outside was crispy and slightly sweet, while the inside had a hint of spice and tasted like a comforting stew.  Although we only got one dumpling, it was pretty large and was a nice snack to enjoy with someone you're not shy to share cooties with.  After finishing one, I'd be lying if I said I didn't want another, but we held back in anticipation of getting soba on the way back from Kiyomizu-dera.  If you ever find yourself in Kyoto on this street, please grab one of these tasty fried treats, your tastebuds will love you for it.

Cost:
At about 300 Yen (or $3.80) a pop, these won't break the bank and will definitely do a good job of tiding you over before a big sight-seeing trip.

Fried Dumpling Stand at Matsubara Dori, Kyoto, Japan
On the way to Kiyomizu-Dera (5 minute walk, right before big staircase)