Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Meat

1. Pound the pork chops or chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness.
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Bread the Cutlets

1. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one for flour, one for the beaten egg, and one for panko breadcrumbs.
2. Dredge each cutlet in flour, dip into the egg, and coat thoroughly with panko. Press gently to adhere.

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

1. Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the cutlets for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 145°F for pork, 165°F for chicken).
3. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Tonkatsu Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Step 5: Assemble the Katsu Bowl

1. In serving bowls, add a bed of warm rice.
2. Top with shredded cabbage.
3. Slice the katsu into strips and place over the cabbage.
4. Drizzle generously with Tonkatsu sauce.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

🍱 Serving Tips

• Serve hot for best texture—crispy on the outside, juicy inside.
• Pair with miso soup, a soft-boiled egg, or Japanese pickles for a complete meal.
• Add a dollop of Japanese mayo on the side for extra umami.

🔄 Optional Variations

• Katsu Don: Simmer sliced katsu in a soy-dashi-egg mixture and serve over rice.
• Spicy Katsu Bowl: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili oil to the Tonkatsu sauce.
• Vegetarian Katsu: Swap the meat for breaded eggplant, tofu, or portobello mushrooms.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use rice flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.

💬 Final Thoughts

Japanese Katsu Bowls are a delicious way to enjoy crispy cutlets with the bold flavors of homemade Tonkatsu sauce—all from the comfort of your kitchen. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll master the art of the perfect katsu and impress your family or guests with your Japanese cooking skills.

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