🐖 Crispy Tonkatsu Recipe (Japanese Pork Cutlet)
Make authentic Tonkatsu at home — crispy, juicy Japanese-style pork cutlets served with tangy sauce and shredded cabbage. Easy and delicious comfort food!
⏱️ Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Serves: 2–3
🧂 Ingredients
For the Pork Cutlets:
- 2 boneless pork chops (¾ inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil, for deep frying
For the Tonkatsu Sauce:
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp mustard (optional)
For Serving:
- Shredded cabbage
- Steamed rice
- Lemon wedges
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
- Trim excess fat and make small cuts on the edges to prevent curling.
- Lightly pound the pork with a meat mallet until slightly thinner.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Bread the Cutlets
- Dredge each pork chop in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into beaten egg.
- Coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs — press gently to adhere.
Step 3: Fry the Tonkatsu
- Heat oil (about 1 inch deep) in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry each cutlet for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and sugar until smooth.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice Tonkatsu into strips and drizzle with sauce.
- Serve with shredded cabbage, steamed rice, and miso soup.
🍱 Serving Suggestions
- Serve over rice bowls (Katsudon) for a comforting meal.
- Add to a bento box for lunch.
- Pair with Japanese potato salad or pickled radish.
❓ FAQs About Tonkatsu
Q1: What is the difference between Tonkatsu and Chicken Katsu?
A1: Tonkatsu uses pork, while Chicken Katsu uses chicken breast — both use the same crispy panko coating.
Q2: Can I bake Tonkatsu instead of frying?
A2: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Q3: What type of pork is best for Tonkatsu?
A3: Pork loin or pork tenderloin — tender and juicy with mild flavor.
Q4: Can I make Tonkatsu sauce ahead of time?
A4: Definitely! Store it in an airtight jar for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Q5: How can I make it gluten-free?
A5: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
🍳 Tips for Perfect Tonkatsu
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — it keeps the coating crispy.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for light, airy crunch.
- Rest the fried cutlets on a rack before slicing to keep them crisp.
🍛 Similar Recipes You’ll Love
- Chicken Katsu Recipe
- Japanese Curry with Tonkatsu (Katsu Curry)
- Gyoza (Japanese Dumplings)
- Teriyaki Salmon Recipe
- Onigiri (Rice Balls)

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