While Japanese bread it's known for its soft and mochi textures,  there’s also unique a variety of bread fillings that differentiate this type of baking from traditional western bread. Before visiting a local Japanese bakery, review some of the most popular bread fillings to enjoy below.

4 Popular Bread Fillings at Japanese Bakeries

1. Curry

Curry typically appears in fried rolls called “curry pan”.  This is covered in breadcrumbs before being deep-fried and filled with Japanese curry. The smooth curry has been likened to beef stew in thickness and features a sweeter flavor than its Indian counterpart. Vegetarian curry, as well as beef, chicken or seafood curries, are common options in many bakeries around Japan.

2. Red Bean Paste “Anko”.

Hokkaido isn’t the only place you’ll find red bean paste in abundance, we also have delicious ones in Hawaii. Japanese bakeries have three popular classes of Anko. Koshi An pan (smooth paste) Tsubu An pan (Coarse beans paste). And Shiro An pan. Made with white red bean paste. Red bean paste adds a healthy dose of protein and iron into your sweet treat.

3. Arabiki Sausage

A Japanese take on the classic hotdog. Arabiki its a Japanese smoked sausage made of juicy coarse pork and thick skin that makes it “snap” when it breaks. The recipe its usually topped by mayonnaise, ketchup, and a spicy sauce, combining the softness and the moderate sweetness of the bread perfectly.

4. Custard Cream

What makes Japanese custard different from other world-famous custards its texture. It has to be soft enough to enjoy the creamy mouthful with a light and soft bread, but consistent enough to stay inside without leaking at high temperature.  Cream pan consists of a small, roundish roll filled with custard cream. Deep cuts in the outer layer prevent the cream from exploding out of the bread during baking. Chocolate cream versions in cone-like rolls are also available for those who enjoy even sweeter flavors. They're named “Korone” .

Find these and other delicious bread creations at Brug Bakery in Honolulu, HI. All ingredients are carefully selected for over 70 handmade products. Call (808) 489-9219 to inquire about the breads available today, or review the menu online. Get the latest bakery news on Facebook.