Name: Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 boneless pork chops or chicken breasts (pounded thin); Salt and pepper; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg (beaten); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil (for frying); ¼ cup ketchup; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp mirin or rice vinegar; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional); Cooked white or brown rice; Shredded cabbage or lettuce; Optional toppings: green onions, sesame seeds, pickled ginger, fried egg

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Why Make This Recipe

Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce are a delicious and filling meal that brings a taste of Japan right to your kitchen. This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The crispy cutlets combined with savory sauce and fresh veggies create a satisfying dish everyone will love. Plus, it is easy to customize with your favorite toppings!

How to Make Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce

Ingredients

2 boneless pork chops or chicken breasts (pounded thin)
Salt and pepper
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg (beaten)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil (for frying)
¼ cup ketchup
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp mirin or rice vinegar
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Cooked white or brown rice
Shredded cabbage or lettuce
Optional toppings: green onions, sesame seeds, pickled ginger, fried egg

Directions

Prepare the Cutlets: Season the pork or chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, dip it in the beaten egg, and then coat thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs.
Pan-Fry: Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each cutlet for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
Make the Tonkatsu Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and mustard. Simmer over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens. Set aside.
Assemble the Bowls: Slice the cutlets into strips. Divide the cooked rice into bowls, top with sliced katsu, drizzle with sauce, and finish with shredded cabbage and your choice of toppings.
Serve Hot: Enjoy every crispy, saucy bite of your Japanese Katsu Bowls!

How to Serve Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce

Serve the Katsu Bowls hot and fresh. You can place the bowls on a table for everyone to enjoy. Add extra toppings like green onions or sesame seeds for a personal touch. This dish pairs well with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple salad.

How to Store Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce

If you have leftovers, store the cutlets and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The Katsu can last for up to 2 days, while the rice is best consumed within a day. Reheat the cutlets in a skillet to regain their crispiness.

Tips to Make Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce

For extra crunch, use fresh panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the cutlets from soaking up too much oil.
If you want a spicy kick, add some sriracha or chili sauce to the tonkatsu sauce.

Variation

You can easily swap out the pork or chicken for shrimp or tofu, making it a great option for different diets. Also, try varying the toppings! Add sliced avocado, corn, or even a soft-boiled egg for added richness.

FAQs

Can I use other meats instead of pork or chicken?
Yes! Shrimp or tofu work well in this recipe too.
Is tonkatsu sauce difficult to make?
Not at all! It’s a simple mixture of common ingredients and comes together quickly.
Can I prepare the katsu ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the cutlets and refrigerate them before frying. Just fry them when you’re ready to eat.
What should I serve with Katsu Bowls?
Katsu Bowls are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with pickled vegetables or a light soup for a complete meal.