Introduction
Tonkatsu is a traditional Japanese dish made with breaded and fried pork cutlets. This dish is usually served with steamed rice, shredded cabbage and Tonkatsu sauce. It is a very popular dish in Japan and it is loved by many people around the world. In this blog post, we will teach you how to make Tonkatsu at home, so you can enjoy this delicious dish anytime you want.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (150g each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (120g)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Start by pounding the pork chops with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season the pork chops with salt and black pepper.
- Set up 3 shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each pork chop in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the Tonkatsu to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil.
- Serve the Tonkatsu with steamed rice, shredded cabbage and Tonkatsu sauce.
Variations
If you want to make a vegetarian version of Tonkatsu, you can use firm tofu instead of pork. Cut the tofu into 1/2 inch thick slices and follow the same steps as you would with the pork. You can also use chicken breasts instead of pork chops.
For a healthier version, you can bake the Tonkatsu instead of frying it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded pork chops on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Conclusion
Tonkatsu is a delicious Japanese dish that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is easy to make at home and it is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Follow this recipe and enjoy this classic Japanese dish with your family and friends.
FAQ
What is Tonkatsu?
Tonkatsu is a Japanese dish that consists of a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet.
What cut of pork is best for Tonkatsu?
The best cut of pork for Tonkatsu is the pork loin, as it has the right balance of fat and meat.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork?
Tonkatsu is traditionally made with pork, but you can use other meats such as chicken or beef. However, it won’t be called Tonkatsu anymore.
How do I make the Tonkatsu sauce?
The Tonkatsu sauce is made by mixing together Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, and sugar. You can adjust the proportions based on your personal taste.
Can I make Tonkatsu without a deep fryer?
Yes, you can make Tonkatsu without a deep fryer. You can shallow fry the pork cutlets in a pan with hot oil until they are crispy and golden brown.
Can I prepare the Tonkatsu in advance and reheat it later?
Tonkatsu is best served immediately after it is cooked. If you need to prepare it in advance, you can keep it warm in a low oven or under a heat lamp, but it may lose its crispiness.
What side dishes go well with Tonkatsu?
Tonkatsu is typically served with shredded cabbage, white rice, and Tonkatsu sauce. You can also serve it with miso soup, pickled vegetables, or a side salad.
How do I store leftover Tonkatsu?
If you have leftover Tonkatsu, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I freeze Tonkatsu?
Yes, you can freeze Tonkatsu. Wrap the cooked and cooled pork cutlets in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Is Tonkatsu a healthy dish?
Tonkatsu is a delicious and satisfying dish, but it is not considered healthy. It is high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the deep-frying process. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
