Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu (Print Version)

Crispy panko-crusted pork or chicken with sweet-tangy tonkatsu sauce, served over rice with fresh cabbage for a satisfying meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Katsu

01 - 2 boneless pork chops or chicken breasts, pounded thin
02 - Salt and pepper, to taste
03 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
04 - 1 large egg, beaten
05 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
06 - Vegetable oil, for frying

→ Tonkatsu Sauce

07 - ¼ cup ketchup
08 - 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
09 - 1 tbsp soy sauce
10 - 1 tbsp mirin or rice vinegar
11 - 1 tbsp brown sugar
12 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

→ Bowl Ingredients

13 - Steamed white or brown rice
14 - Thinly shredded cabbage
15 - Optional toppings: green onions, sesame seeds, pickled ginger, fried egg

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Pound the pork or chicken to even thickness. Season with salt and pepper. Coat in flour, then egg, then panko.
02 - Heat oil in a skillet and fry the cutlets for 3–4 minutes per side, until crisp and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel or wire rack.
03 - In a small saucepan, whisk together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
04 - Spoon warm rice into each bowl. Slice the katsu and arrange on top. Drizzle generously with tonkatsu sauce. Add shredded cabbage and preferred toppings.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Pound the meat evenly for uniform cooking.
02 - Use panko for the crispiest crust.
03 - Let breaded cutlets rest for 5–10 minutes before frying to maximize crispiness.
04 - Keep oil between 340–350°F to ensure an even golden brown crust.
05 - Customize with tofu or eggplant for a vegetarian alternative.