🇯🇵 Japan · Food

Tonkatsu

45 min
A great way to spend your free time
🔥 480 kcal
Hearty helping
🍽 2 servings
Just for you (or a date)

By eatmundo · July 12, 2026

Tonkatsu🇯🇵 JP毒島みるく · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

A quintessential Japanese comfort food featuring a breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet. It offers a satisfying crunch on the outside and tender meat within.

Ingredients

How to Make It

  • 1

    Pound the 300g pork loin to a uniform 1.5cm thickness using a meat mallet.

  • 2

    Dredge each piece of pork in 50g of flour, shaking off the excess.

  • 3

    Dip the floured pork into the beaten egg until completely coated.

  • 4

    Press the pork firmly into the 100g of panko breadcrumbs, ensuring every inch is covered.

  • 5

    Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan to 170°C, checking with a thermometer.

  • 6

    Lower the pork into the oil carefully and fry for 4 minutes until golden brown.

  • 7

    Flip the cutlet and fry for another 3 minutes until crispy.

  • 8

    Drain the Tonkatsu on a wire rack for 2 minutes before slicing into strips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of pork?+

Yes, this dish is then called Torikatsu and follows the exact same preparation method.

What oil is best for frying?+

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil.

How do I ensure the breadcrumbs don't fall off?+

Ensure the pork is patted completely dry before dredging in flour to help the coating adhere.

What is served alongside Tonkatsu?+

It is traditionally served with shredded raw cabbage and a thick, savory fruit-based Tonkatsu sauce.

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