Tonkatsu is a popular Japanese dish consisting of breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets. It’s typically served with shredded cabbage, rice, and a savory tonkatsu sauce. This dish is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making it a favorite comfort food in Japan. Follow this recipe to create delicious Tonkatsu at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (1/2 to 3/4 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Serving:
- Tonkatsu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Shredded cabbage
- Steamed rice
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork:
- Tenderize the Pork:
- Place the pork chops between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season:
- Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Breading the Pork:
- Set Up Breading Station:
- Place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls.
- Coat the Pork:
- Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Frying the Pork:
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot (about 350°F or 175°C).
- Fry the Pork:
- Carefully add the breaded pork chops to the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried pork chops to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Serving:
- Slice and Serve:
- Slice the Tonkatsu into strips and serve with shredded cabbage, steamed rice, and a side of tonkatsu sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.
Tonkatsu is a delicious and satisfying Japanese dish that combines the crispy texture of fried pork with the savory flavor of tonkatsu sauce. Serve it with fresh cabbage and rice for a complete and comforting meal. Enjoy this classic Japanese dish with your family and friends. Itadakimasu!