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+ servings
Mary Kelly

Tonkatsu: The Japanese Pork Cutlet Sunday Supper Recipe

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s a hearty plate of tonkatsu. This crispy, fried pork cutlet is more than just a dish; it’s a delightful experience, especially on sunny Sundays.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 357

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless pork loin cutlets about 1 lb / 450 g
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup 65 g all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • cups 105 g crisp Japanese panko breadcrumbs
  • Neutral vegetable oil for deep frying
  • 8 thick square slices of white sandwich bread, crusts removed
  • Soft butter for spreading on the bread
  • ¼ head napa cabbage or green cabbage finely shredded
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish
  • Your choice of mustard Karashi, whole-grain, or Dijon
  • 3 tablespoons 44 ml tangy Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon 15 ml naturally brewed soy sauce
  • ½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 tablespoons 30 g creamy mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup 55 g rich tomato ketchup
  • ½ teaspoon rice vinegar
  • tablespoons 20 g fine granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons 30 g savory oyster sauce

Equipment

  • A large bowl, skillet

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Pork
  1. Start with the pork loin cutlets. Gently pound them with a mallet to ensure even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper, letting the flavors penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
  1. Create a three-bowl setup: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs. This will help you bread the cutlets efficiently.
Step 3: Bread the Cutlets
  1. Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it in the beaten egg, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated. Finally, press it into the panko breadcrumbs to create a thick crust.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
  1. In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a few breadcrumbs into it; if they sizzle immediately, it’s time to fry.
Step 5: Fry the Cutlets
  1. Carefully place one or two breaded cutlets into the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this will lower the oil temperature and affect crispiness.
Step 6: Drain and Rest
  1. Remove the cutlets and place them on a rack lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes.
Step 7: Prepare the Sauce
  1. While the cutlets are resting, mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Stir until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Step 8: Assemble the Sandwich
  1. Spread soft butter on your bread slices. Place a fried cutlet on four of the slices. Top with shredded cabbage, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and drizzle some sauce. Cover with the remaining bread slices.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
  1. Cut the sandwiches diagonally and serve with extra sauce on the side. Enjoy this delicious tonkatsu sandwich with your favorite sides!

Nutrition

Calories: 357kcalCarbohydrates: 61gProtein: 11gFat: 7.4gSaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 92mgSodium: 806mgFiber: 3gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 12IUVitamin C: 39mgCalcium: 12mgIron: 22mg

Notes

Quality Matters: Use fresh, high-quality pork for the best flavor and juiciness.
Panko is Key: Make sure to use Japanese panko breadcrumbs for that light, airy crunch.
Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at around 350°F (175°C) for consistent frying.
Rest the Meat: Allow the cutlets to rest after frying for better moisture retention.
Taste the Sauce: Adjust the sauce to your personal preference; add more ginger for warmth or more vinegar for a tang.

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