Tonkatsu with Homemade Sauce
Tonkatsu is a Japanese dish that features breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets, typically served with a delicious homemade sauce. Here’s how you can make tonkatsu with its accompanying sauce at home:
Tonkatsu:
Ingredients:
4 pork loin or pork tenderloin cutlets
Salt and pepper
Flour, for dusting
1-2 eggs, beaten
Panko breadcrumbs
Cooking oil, for frying
Instructions:
Prepare the Pork Cutlets: Season the pork cutlets with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Dredge and Bread the Pork: Dredge each cutlet in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the pork to adhere.
Fry the Pork Cutlets: Heat cooking oil in a deep skillet or pot to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the breaded pork cutlets into the hot oil and fry until they’re golden brown and crispy on both sides. It usually takes around 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the cutlets and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Homemade Tonkatsu Sauce:
Ingredients:
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions:
Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Adjust Flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust the ratios if desired. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more sugar or mirin. If you like it tangier, increase the Worcestershire sauce.
Serve Tonkatsu with Homemade Sauce:
Slice the Tonkatsu: Once the tonkatsu is fried and drained, let it rest for a minute or two before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Serve with Sauce: Arrange the tonkatsu pieces on a plate and serve them with the homemade tonkatsu sauce on the side for dipping.
Accompaniments: Tonkatsu is traditionally served with shredded cabbage on the side. You can also enjoy it with a side of steamed rice.
Optional Garnish: For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, you can garnish the tonkatsu with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or sesame seeds.
Enjoy your homemade tonkatsu with its flavorful and tangy sauce! It’s a beloved Japanese dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.