Japanese Pork Katsu
A fast and easy recipe. We love the crispy and light coating that the panko creates. There is also a dipping sauce. The choice is yours whether to dip or drizzle the sauce over the pork. Lovely served with rice and vegetables or salad. I like this pork on its own, too, without the sauce.
A fast and easy recipe. We love the crispy and light coating that the panko creates. There is also a dipping sauce. The choice is yours whether to dip or drizzle the sauce over the pork. Lovely served with rice and vegetables or salad. I like this pork on its own, too, without the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin or 1 tablespoon sake
- 3 -4 tablespoons ketchup (i used 4 t because
- 1/2 teaspoon hot mustard
- 4 pound in total (no bone)
- 3 -4 tablespoons flour
- kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup corn or 1/4 cup peanut oil
- steamed rice opt., for serving
- Carbohydrate 39.4109617207241 g
- Cholesterol 0.56 mg
- Fat 3.09830234368237 g
- Fiber 2.7933984910091 g
- Protein 8.30898671941486 g
- Saturated Fat 0.780953124996159 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (518g)
- Sodium 1229.55976608501 mg
- Sugar 36.617563229715 g
- Trans Fat 0.349913671873615 g
- Calories 220 calories
Step-by-step
- Make the dipping sauce: Stir together 1 T. of hot water and the soy sauce, mirin, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup and mustard. Set aside.
- Prep the pork: Place the pork cutlets between 2 sheets of waxed paper or plastic wrap and pound them with a meat pounder until about 1/4 inch thick.
- In a shallow bowl, lightly beat the egg. Spread the flour and panko on 2 separate plates. Season the flour with salt and pepper. Also, season the pork cutlets with salt on both sides.
- Dip the pork first into the flour, then the egg and last the panko (coating both sides). Press the panko into the pork so it stays put.
- Panfry the pork: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until just hot and then add the oil. Add the cutlets and fry, turning once, until golden brown on both sides and just opaque at the center (you don't want to overcook pork) - this should take approximately 5 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the cutlets to paper towel to drain briefly, then cut across the grain into strips 1/2 inch thick.
- Serve with the dipping sauce and rice.
My Favorite Weeknight Dinner: Japanese Pork Katsu
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can be a challenge. But I've discovered a recipe that's become a staple in our family: Japanese Pork Katsu. This dish is not only incredibly flavorful and satisfying, but it’s surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, even on the busiest of weeknights. The crispy panko-crusted pork cutlets are a real crowd-pleaser, and the tangy dipping sauce adds a delightful touch. The best part? It's incredibly versatile. I can serve it with a simple side of steamed rice and some steamed broccoli for a light dinner or add a vibrant salad to make it a more substantial meal. Even my picky eaters can't resist this dish!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The preparation is straightforward, involving a quick marinade and a simple breading process. I typically prepare the dipping sauce while the pork is marinating, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The frying process itself is quick, and the result is wonderfully crispy pork that's perfectly cooked. I often double the recipe and have leftovers for lunch the next day – it reheats beautifully! Honestly, I find it incredibly comforting and satisfying, which is perfect after a long day at the office or juggling kid’s schedules. This recipe has become a go-to for our family's meal routine, and I'm always happy to hear the delighted sounds of my family digging into this delightful dish.
Beyond the Weeknight: While this recipe excels as a weeknight dinner, it’s also adaptable for special occasions. For a more elegant presentation, I'll sometimes arrange the pork katsu on a bed of rice, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. The dipping sauce can be elevated by adding a touch of grated ginger or a squeeze of lime. The versatility of this dish makes it suitable for a casual family dinner or a more sophisticated meal with friends. It's truly a recipe that has grown with me, evolving from a simple weeknight meal to a versatile dish I can adapt for any occasion.
The ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, making it easy to assemble. And if I'm short on time, I often buy pre-cut pork cutlets to save a few minutes. Honestly, the entire process, from prep to serving, takes about 30 minutes, which is a significant win in my book! So whether you are a busy professional, a stay-at-home parent, or simply someone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed.
Making it Your Own: Experiment with different dipping sauces! While the recipe provides a classic option, you can add your own creative twist. Try adding a splash of sesame oil to the sauce for a nutty flavor, or experiment with different types of mustard. You could even create a spicy version by adding a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. The beauty of this recipe is in its adaptability. Feel free to tailor it to your preferences and dietary needs. Try using different types of oil for frying or even bake the pork cutlets for a healthier alternative, although the crispiness might be slightly less pronounced.
In conclusion, Japanese Pork Katsu has become a treasured recipe in my culinary repertoire. It's a versatile, delicious, and surprisingly easy dish that perfectly balances flavor, convenience, and satisfaction. It's a meal that nourishes both body and soul, a fact I'm incredibly grateful for amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
