Easy Tonkatsu Recipe: A Classic Japanese Pork Cutlet Dish

Get ready to indulge in an authentic Japanese pork cutlet with this Tonkatsu recipe. Follow our step-by-step instructions to create a perfect balance of flavors in this classic dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Tonkatsu is a popular Japanese dish that features a crispy and juicy pork cutlet served with a tangy sauce, a side of rice, and shredded cabbage. The crispy breading and succulent pork are the hallmarks of this dish, which is beloved by many people in Japan and beyond. In this blog post, we’ll be sharing a recipe for authentic Tonkatsu that is easy to make and will satisfy your cravings in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork chops (1/2 inch thick)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/2 cup Tonkatsu sauce
• 2 cups cooked Japanese rice
• 1 cup shredded cabbage

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°F to keep the cooked Tonkatsu warm.
2. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper and coat them with flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Dip the pork chops in the beaten eggs and coat them with panko breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs onto the meat to ensure they stick.
4. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove the Tonkatsu from the pan and drain them on a paper towel to remove excess oil. Keep them warm in the oven while you prepare the sides.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the Tonkatsu sauce and a few drops of water to thin it out.
7. Serve the Tonkatsu with a side of cooked Japanese rice and shredded cabbage, and drizzle the Tonkatsu sauce on top.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispy breading that stays crunchy.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the pork chops to prevent them from getting greasy.
• Use a meat thermometer to check if the pork is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F).
• Serve the Tonkatsu with a wedge of lemon for added zest.
• Use a serrated knife to cut the Tonkatsu to keep the breading intact.

Variants:

• Chicken Katsu: Substitute chicken breast for pork chops in the recipe.
• Shrimp Katsu: Use large shrimp instead of pork chops in the recipe.
• Cheese Katsu: Add a layer of grated cheese on top of the Tonkatsu before serving for a cheesy twist on the classic dish.

Tonkatsu is a classic Japanese dish that is easy to make and incredibly delicious. By following our recipe and using the right ingredients, you can create a perfectly crispy and juicy pork cutlet that will satisfy your cravings. With our tips and tricks, you can make the best Tonkatsu at home and enjoy it with your favorite sides. Try out different variants to create your own unique Katsu dishes and enjoy a taste of Japan in your own kitchen.