Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious meal that brings the family together, Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce is the way to go! I still remember the first time my son, Jake, helped me make this dish. He was so excited to dip the crispy pork into the sauce that he nearly knocked over the bowl. Tonkatsu sauce is the star here, adding a rich flavor that makes each bite unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love It

• It's a fun, interactive meal that everyone can enjoy.
• The crispy pork pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy tonkatsu sauce.
• You can customize the toppings to suit your family's taste.

Pure Comfort

These bowls are pure comfort food, bringing warmth and joy to any dinner table. The combination of crispy pork, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies is not just filling; it's a hug in a bowl.

What You Need

• 4 1 lb pork loin chops – You can substitute with chicken breast for a lighter option.
• 1 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 g) – For a gluten-free option, use almond flour.
• 2 2 large eggs – These help the breadcrumbs stick.
• 2 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (120 g) – Panko gives a lighter, crispier texture.
• 1 1 tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground is best.
• for frying Vegetable oil – Can use canola or peanut oil.
• 2 2 cups cooked rice – White or brown rice works well.
• 1 1 cup shredded cabbage – You can substitute with mixed greens.
• 1/2 1/2 cup tonkatsu sauce – Store-bought or homemade.

Time to Cook

Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 40 minutes | Difficulty: easy | Make-Ahead: You can prepare the pork and sauce a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

1. Start by preparing your pork loin chops. Pat them dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. This step helps the seasoning stick and enhances the flavor.
2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add flour. In the second, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third, pour in the panko breadcrumbs. This will help create a crispy coating on the pork.
3. Dredge each pork chop in flour, shaking off the excess. Then, dip it in the egg, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. You want a nice, even layer for that crunch.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully add the breaded pork chops. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
5. Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This keeps them crispy and not greasy. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips.
6. To assemble your katsu bowls, start with a scoop of cooked rice at the bottom. Top it with the sliced pork, a handful of shredded cabbage, and drizzle with tonkatsu sauce. You can add more sauce on the side for dipping if you like!

Make It Perfect

• Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the pork to avoid sogginess.
• For extra flavor, you can marinate the pork in soy sauce and ginger for an hour before breading.
• If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can be a lifesaver.

Mix It Up

• Try adding pickled vegetables for a tangy crunch.
• Swap out the pork for tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add a soft-boiled egg on top for extra richness.

Perfect Partners

• Serve with miso soup for a complete meal.
• Pair with a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing side.

💡 For more recipes, follow me on Facebook and Pinterest.

FAQs

Conclusion

Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Japan to your home. With its crispy pork and flavorful sauce, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making it every week!

Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce Recipe

Japanese Katsu Bowls feature crispy pork loin chops served over rice with shredded cabbage and tangy tonkatsu sauce. This comforting dish blends crunchy textures and rich flavors, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Equipment

• Skillet
• Paper Towels
• Three shallow bowls

Ingredients

  

Main

• for frying Vegetable oil Can use canola or peanut oil.

Instructions

 

• Pat pork loin chops dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
• Set up breading station with three shallow bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
• Dredge each pork chop in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs evenly.
• Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat to 350°F.
• Fry pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F.
• Drain pork chops on paper towel-lined plate and let rest before slicing into strips.
• Assemble bowls with cooked rice, sliced pork, shredded cabbage, and drizzle with tonkatsu sauce.

Keyword Comfort Food, Crispy, Katsu, Pork, rice bowl, Tonkatsu Sauce