A Taste Originating from Ueno Now at Matsuya? Trying the Intriguing "Neo Kashmir Curry"
Matsuya always creates a buzz not only for its beef bowls (Gyumeshi) but also for its authentic limited-time curries. With locations all across Japan, its biggest charm is how easy it is to casually drop by.
My target this time was the new "Neo Kashmir Curry," which went on sale starting October 6. Hearing the name "Kashmir Curry" might make you think of the region in India, but it actually originated at a famous curry restaurant in Ueno, Tokyo. Since I have never been to that original restaurant and have always wondered what kind of curry it is, I decided to experience it at my local Matsuya first.
As usual, I placed my order via mobile ordering on the official Matsuya Foods app. It is a smart way to order because you can take your time choosing on your smartphone without waiting in line at the ticket machine, plus the point reward rate is high. This time, I applied a 30-yen discount coupon available on the app, ordering the "Neo Kashmir Curry (Regular)"—normally 680 yen including tax—for 650 yen. By the way, looking at the app screen, you could choose any rice portion from small to extra-large for the exact same price.
Great Even If You Dislike Spicy Food! A Smooth, Easy-to-Eat Dish with a New Sensation
Here is the "Neo Kashmir Curry (Regular)" served right in front of me. Since I was dining in, it also came with their classic miso soup as a set.
A blackish, dark brown curry sauce surrounds a neat mound of white rice in the center of the plate. It has a simple presentation, with white sauce drizzled over the curry like a marble pattern and fukujinzuke (sliced pickled vegetables) on the side of the plate.
I had heard that the original Kashmir curry is quite spicy, so I braced myself a little. However, upon taking a bite, I found it was adjusted to a mild heat level that even someone like me, who isn't good with spicy food, could eat comfortably. True to its catchphrase, "We made an easy-to-eat Kashmir curry!", you only feel a gentle warmth of spices lingering afterward, making it much easier to eat than I had imagined.
What also left an impression on me was the texture of the curry. Personally, I usually prefer thick and rich curries, but this Neo Kashmir Curry is very thin and soup-like. It blends quickly into the rice with a light mouthfeel, and while eating, it involuntarily reminded me of that famous saying someone once coined: "Curry is a drink" (lol). A smooth, thin curry like this is actually quite nice once in a while because it goes down so easily.
[Summary] Perfect as an Introduction to Kashmir Curry or When You Want a Light Meal!
Matsuya's "Neo Kashmir Curry" retains the authentic flavor of spices while keeping the heat mild, making it an easy-to-eat dish for anyone.
It is perfect for those who have heard of Kashmir curry but hesitated to try it because it seemed too spicy, or for times when you want to quickly enjoy a thin, soup-like curry that's a bit different from your usual rich curry. This has completely sparked my interest in Kashmir curry, and now I'd love to visit the original restaurant in Ueno someday! If you're curious, be sure to check the official app for a coupon and give it a try.