Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu is a Japanese breaded pork cutlet fried to shatteringly crisp, golden perfection. The panko crust stays incredibly crunchy while the pork inside remains juicy and tender. Served with a tangy tonkatsu sauce and shredded cabbage, it is a beloved comfort meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 pork loin cutlets
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • for frying oil
  • to serve tonkatsu sauce
  • to serve cabbage, shredded

Instructions

  1. Pound the pork cutlets to an even thickness and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up a breading station of flour, beaten eggs, and panko.
  3. Coat each cutlet in flour, then egg, then panko, pressing to adhere.
  4. Heat the oil to 175C (350F) and fry the cutlets for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden.
  5. Drain on a rack and rest for a few minutes.
  6. Slice into strips and serve with tonkatsu sauce and shredded cabbage.

💡 Chef's tip

Pound the pork lightly and score the edges so it stays flat and cooks evenly without curling in the oil.

Panko breadcrumbs are essential here, as their large, airy flakes fry up far crispier and lighter than fine breadcrumbs, giving tonkatsu its signature crunch.

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Carbs: 30 g
  • Fat: 25 g