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A close-up shot of a crispy tonkatsu cutlet being simmered in donburi sauce with egg and onions, a key step in making an authentic Japanese Katsu Bowl.
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Japanese Katsu Bowl: The Ultimate Crispy Recipe

Master the art of the Japanese Katsu Bowl (Katsudon) with this easy-to-follow recipe. Learn the secrets to achieving an ultra-crispy pork cutlet and a perfectly balanced, savory-sweet donburi sauce for an authentic taste at home.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 2 bowls
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Japanese
Calories: 780

Ingredients
  

For the Tonkatsu (Pork Cutlet)
  • 2 boneless pork chops about 1/2-inch thick
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Neutral oil for frying (e.g., canola, vegetable)
For the Sauce and Assembly
  • 1/2 medium onion thinly sliced
  • 2/3 cup dashi stock
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 2 servings steamed short-grain rice for serving
  • 1 scallion thinly sliced, for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet For frying the pork.
  • 1 Small Saucepan For the donburi sauce.
  • 3 Shallow Dishes For the breading station.
  • 1 Wire Rack

Method
 

  1. Pat the pork chops dry. Make a few shallow cuts along the fatty edge to prevent curling. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Place flour, 1 beaten egg, and Panko breadcrumbs in three separate shallow dishes. Dredge a pork chop in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the egg, coating completely. Finally, press firmly into the Panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even, thick coating.
  3. Add about 1 inch of neutral oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat (around 340°F / 170°C). Carefully lay the breaded pork chops in the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack to drain.
  4. While the pork rests, combine dashi stock, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in a small saucepan or skillet. Add the sliced onions and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook until the onions are tender, about 5 minutes.
  5. Slice the rested pork katsu into 1-inch strips. Arrange the slices over the simmering onions and sauce. Drizzle the 2 lightly beaten eggs over the top. Cover the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes until the egg is just set but still soft.
  6. Fill two bowls with hot steamed rice. Carefully slide one portion of the katsu, onion, and egg mixture over the rice in each bowl. Garnish with sliced scallions and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 780kcalProtein: 42gFat: 35gFiber: 4g

Notes

Tip 1: Use a thermometer to monitor your oil temperature for perfectly fried, non-greasy katsu.
Tip 2: For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of sake to the donburi sauce along with the mirin and soy sauce.
Tip 3: Don't overcook the egg; it should be soft and slightly runny to create a delicious sauce over the rice.
Keyword Japanese Pork Cutlet,katsudon,tonkatsu

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