Name: Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 boneless pork chops or chicken breasts (pounded thin); Salt and pepper; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg (beaten); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil (for frying); ¼ cup ketchup; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp mirin or rice vinegar; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional); Cooked white or brown rice; Shredded cabbage or lettuce; Optional toppings: green onions, sesame seeds, pickled ginger, fried egg

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Indulge in the delightful flavors of Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The crispy Katsu cutlets paired with the savory Tonkatsu sauce create a perfect harmony of flavors.
With simple ingredients and quick prep time, this dish is ideal for busy individuals looking for a satisfying meal.

Japanese Katsu Bowls are versatile and can be customized with a variety of toppings to suit different preferences.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Katsu Cutlets:

Boneless pork chops or chicken breasts (pounded thin) provide a tender base for the dish.

Panko breadcrumbs give the cutlets a crispy texture when fried.

Vegetable oil is used for frying and can be substituted with other neutral oils like canola or sunflower oil.

For the Tonkatsu Sauce:

Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce add depth of flavor to the sauce.

Mirin or rice vinegar provides a hint of sweetness, while brown sugar balances the flavors.
Dijon mustard is optional but adds a subtle tang to the sauce.

For the Bowls:

Cooked white or brown rice serves as a hearty base for the dish.
Shredded cabbage or lettuce adds freshness to the bowls.

Optional toppings like green onions, sesame seeds, pickled ginger, or a fried egg can be added for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Season the pork chops or chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Dredge the cutlets in flour, dip them in beaten egg, and coat them with panko breadcrumbs.

Fry the cutlets in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.

Mix together the ingredients for the Tonkatsu sauce and serve it alongside the cutlets.
Assemble the bowls with rice, shredded cabbage, cutlets, and desired toppings.

Helpful Tips:

For extra crispy cutlets, double coat them in the egg and breadcrumbs.

To make a vegetarian version, use tofu or eggplant as a substitute for the meat.
Store any leftover Tonkatsu sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the cutlets are cooked to the correct temperature.

Let the fried cutlets rest on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair Japanese Katsu Bowls with a side of miso soup and a refreshing cucumber salad. Serve with a cold glass of green tea or a crisp Japanese lager for a complete meal experience.

Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, place the cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven to maintain their crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat for the Katsu cutlets?

Yes, you can use beef or even fish as alternatives to pork or chicken.

Is Tonkatsu sauce the same as BBQ sauce?

While they share some similarities, Tonkatsu sauce has a unique flavor profile with a combination of sweet, savory, and tangy notes.

Can I make the cutlets ahead of time and reheat them?

While the cutlets are best served fresh, you can reheat them in the oven to maintain their crunchiness.

Are there any gluten-free alternatives for this recipe?

You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion:

Experience the delicious flavors of Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce by trying out this recipe. Whether you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or looking to explore new flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy this delightful meal!

Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce

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Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 35 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Category: Main-course

Method: Frying
Cuisine: Japanese

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Description

Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce are a delicious and crispy dish featuring breaded and fried pork or chicken cutlets served over a bed of rice and shredded cabbage, topped with a savory tonkatsu sauce.

Instructions

Bread the cutlets: Season pork or chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, dip in beaten egg, coat with panko breadcrumbs. Fry until golden brown.
Make the tonkatsu sauce: Mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a saucepan, simmer until thickened.

Assemble the bowls: Place rice and shredded cabbage in bowls, top with katsu cutlets, drizzle with tonkatsu sauce, and add optional toppings.

Notes

If using chicken breasts, ensure they are pounded to an even thickness for even cooking.
Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences.