Tonkatsu (Crispy Japanese Pork Cutlets)
This authentic Japanese Tonkatsu recipe features crispy breaded pork cutlets that are deep-fried until golden and juicy. Serve with shredded cabbage, rice, and tangy tonkatsu sauce for a classic Japanese dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork loin cutlets about 1/4" thick
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- vegetable oil for frying
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage for serving
- 2 cups cooked rice for serving
- Tonkatsu sauce for drizzling
- lemon wedges optional
Instructions
- Pound pork cutlets to ½-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set up breading station with separate bowls of flour, beaten egg, and panko.
- Dredge each cutlet in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko. Let rest 5 minutes.
- Heat 1½ inches of oil in skillet to 350°F.
- Fry pork for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 145°F).
- Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
- Slice and serve with cabbage, rice, and tonkatsu sauce. Add lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
NUTRITION FACTS (Per Serving – 1 Cutlet)
- Calories: 550 kcal (28% DV)
- Carbohydrates: 40g (13% DV)
- Protein: 35g (70% DV)
- Total Fat: 30g (46% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 6g (30% DV)
- Cholesterol: 130mg (43% DV)
- Sodium: 550mg (24% DV)
- Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
- Sugars: 3g