Japanese Breaded Ground Pork Cutlet is a Japanese comfort food classic, with golden crispy breading encasing juicy, flavorful ground pork. The savory combination of pork, onions, and a touch of soy sauce makes each bite incredibly satisfying. This dish is perfect for anyone craving something hearty yet quick to prepare. It’s an easy-to-make Japanese favorite that delivers a punch of flavor, whether served with rice, a salad, or a side of Tonkatsu sauce for that extra touch of tangy goodness.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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500g ground pork
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1/2 onion, finely chopped
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1 egg
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1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon pepper
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1 egg (for battering)
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for coating)
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
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Tonkatsu sauce (for serving)
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped onion, egg, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
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Shape the pork mixture into oval patties, about the size of a hamburger patty.
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Set up a breading station by placing flour in one shallow dish, beaten egg in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third.
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Dredge each patty in flour, dip it in the beaten egg, and coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs.
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Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the patties until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
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Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
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Serve the Menchi Katsu with Tonkatsu sauce on the side and enjoy!
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Kcal: 450 kcal per serving
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Servings: 4 servings
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Japanese Breaded Ground Pork Cutlet: A Flavorful Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes offer the same level of satisfaction and warmth as Menchi Katsu, or the Japanese breaded ground pork cutlet. Known for its crispy, golden exterior and juicy, flavorful interior, Menchi Katsu has become a beloved dish in Japanese cuisine and around the world. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress your guests, this dish never fails to deliver.
A Deep Dive into the History and Origins of Menchi Katsu
The origins of Menchi Katsu can be traced back to the early 20th century in Japan, during a time when Western culinary influences were becoming more widespread. The concept of breaded, deep-fried meat cutlets was inspired by European schnitzel or the French croquette. However, the Japanese gave it their own twist by using ground meat, typically pork, and adding their own distinctive seasonings. The result is a crispy, savory dish that has become a staple in Japanese homes and restaurants.
The dish is often compared to Tonkatsu, a breaded and fried pork cutlet, but Menchi Katsu is made using ground pork, which gives it a softer texture and makes it more accessible to those who prefer ground meat dishes. It is usually served with a side of rice and a generous drizzle of Tonkatsu sauce, a sweet and tangy condiment that pairs perfectly with the rich and crispy pork.
Why Menchi Katsu is a Must-Try Dish
1. Flavorful and Satisfying
One of the key reasons why Menchi Katsu has gained such widespread popularity is its flavor. The savory combination of ground pork, onion, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder creates a harmonious blend of tastes that are both rich and satisfying. The crispy exterior from the panko breadcrumbs provides the perfect contrast to the tender and juicy pork inside. Every bite is a perfect balance of crunch and meatiness, making it a dish that will leave you craving more.
2. Quick and Easy to Prepare
Menchi Katsu is an ideal recipe for anyone who enjoys cooking but doesn’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. The dish comes together in less than 45 minutes—from prepping the ingredients to frying the patties to perfection. You don’t need any special equipment, just a frying pan and a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re cooking for one or a family, Menchi Katsu is easy to scale up or down depending on your needs.
3. A Perfect Comfort Food for All Ages
Menchi Katsu is a great dish for the entire family, from young children to adults. The combination of crunchy breadcrumbs and flavorful ground pork is often a hit with picky eaters, making it an excellent choice for dinner. It’s also a great way to introduce young ones to Japanese cuisine in a familiar, approachable form. Pair it with steamed rice and a side of vegetables for a balanced meal that the whole family can enjoy.
4. Customizable to Your Taste
Another benefit of Menchi Katsu is its versatility. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences. If you prefer a bit more heat, you can add chili flakes or chili sauce to the pork mixture. If you’re looking for a more savory flavor, try adding dashi powder or miso paste to the meat. You can also use ground chicken or beef instead of pork, making the dish adaptable to different dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Menchi Katsu is a fantastic option for meal prepping. Once cooked, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days or even frozen for longer storage. You can reheat the patties in the oven to maintain their crispy texture, making them a great option for quick meals throughout the week. The dish also holds up well in bento boxes, so it’s perfect for school or work lunches.
Benefits of Using Panko Breadcrumbs
An essential part of Menchi Katsu is the use of panko breadcrumbs. These Japanese breadcrumbs are made from white bread without crusts, giving them a light and airy texture that results in a crispier crust than traditional breadcrumbs. The panko creates a much more crispy and crunchy coating while absorbing less oil, making the dish less greasy and lighter in texture.
Panko breadcrumbs also have a longer shelf life than regular breadcrumbs, making them a more convenient option to have in your pantry for various recipes. If you want to add extra flavor to your Menchi Katsu, consider toasting the panko in a little bit of oil before breading the pork patties to enhance the flavor and crunch.
How to Serve Menchi Katsu for the Best Experience
Traditionally, Menchi Katsu is served with tonkatsu sauce, a thick, sweet and tangy condiment. This sauce complements the richness of the pork and adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. You can also serve Menchi Katsu with a simple side of shredded cabbage, pickles, or a light Japanese salad for some freshness. For a more filling meal, serve it with steamed Japanese rice and miso soup for a complete, comforting Japanese dinner experience.
Health Benefits of Menchi Katsu
Although Menchi Katsu is a deep-fried dish, it offers several health benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Pork is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building muscle and repairing tissues. The onions and garlic in the mixture provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Using panko breadcrumbs helps reduce the amount of oil absorbed during frying, keeping the dish a bit lighter than other deep-fried options.
By pairing Menchi Katsu with healthy sides such as steamed vegetables or a salad, you can balance out the richness of the cutlet and make it a more wholesome meal. And, of course, controlling the amount of sauce you use can also help keep the dish from becoming too sugary or heavy.
Conclusion
Menchi Katsu is more than just a delicious dish—it’s a comforting, customizable, and versatile meal that has earned its place in the hearts of food lovers worldwide. Whether you’re looking to introduce your family to Japanese flavors or enjoy a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe is sure to please. With its crispy exterior, savory filling, and adaptability to various tastes, Menchi Katsu is a meal everyone can enjoy. So why not give it a try next time you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting dish? You won’t be disappointed!