The World's Best Pork Chops (Tonkatsu)
Video Stats
Recipe Overview
Overview
Tonkatsu is a beloved Japanese dish that brings together the satisfying crunch of deep-fried pork and the delicate flavors of a well-prepared meal. The process begins with selecting the right cut of pork, typically a thick cut boneless chop, which is then pounded to tenderize and flatten it. This step is crucial as it ensures that the meat cooks evenly and remains juicy.
The breading process is where the magic happens. After a quick dry brine, the pork is coated in flour, dipped in a seasoned egg wash, and finally pressed into panko breadcrumbs. This creates a beautiful crust that is both crispy and light. The frying technique is equally important; using a blend of lard and peanut oil not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
Once fried, the Tonkatsu is served alongside a simple salad of shredded cabbage, which is often soaked in ice water to enhance its crispness. A drizzle of Tonkatsu sauce adds a tangy, savory punch that complements the rich flavors of the pork. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that showcases the beauty of Japanese cooking techniques and flavors.
For those looking to elevate their Tonkatsu, consider making your own bread from scratch, as it can significantly enhance the texture and flavor of the dish. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a sandwich, Tonkatsu is sure to impress anyone at the dinner table.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Tip: Trim off silver skin to prevent pork chop curl.
Tip: Make shallow cuts in the fat cap to preserve flavor.
Trim silver skin from pork chops to prevent curling.
Pound pork chops to flatten and tenderize.
Tip: Using a meat mallet or tenderizer can save time when flattening pork.
Tip: Dry brine pork chops to enhance flavor and moisture retention.
Sprinkle pork chops with kosher salt and let sit at room temperature.
Beat eggs with salt and water for breading.
Tip: Add a bit of flour to the egg mixture for better adhesion.
Pat pork dry and coat with flour.
Dip pork in egg mixture ensuring even coverage.
Tip: Press breadcrumbs firmly for better crust adhesion.
Press pork into panko breadcrumbs.
Heat lard and peanut oil in a wok for frying.
Tip: Use a blend of lard and peanut oil for better flavor.
Fry pork for 3 to 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Remove fried pork and place on a wire rack.
Tip: Sprinkle kosher salt on fried pork while hot for better seasoning.
Shred cabbage and soak in ice water.
Tip: Soak cabbage in ice water to make it crisp.
Dry cabbage with paper towels or salad spinner.
Serve tonkatsu with tonkatsu sauce and lemon wedges.
Tip: Use tonkatsu sauce for a tangy flavor complement.
Prepare Japanese milk bread for sandwiches.
Combine ingredients in a stand mixer to form dough.
Let dough rise until doubled in size.
Bake bread in a preheated oven until golden brown.
Cut bread into cubes and process into crumbs.
Tip: Marinate pork in buttermilk for tenderness.
Tip: Toasted sesame dressing enhances flavor for cabbage.
Marinate pork in buttermilk and seasonings.
Tip: Rinse and dry pork after marinating to ensure breading adheres.
Rinse marinade off pork and press dry.
Tip: Toss pork in breadcrumbs gently to avoid squishing.
Fry marinated pork in fresh breadcrumbs.
Tip: Fresh breadcrumbs create a superior crust.
Tip: Serve tonkatsu immediately for best texture.
Tip: Toast bread on one side for added texture in sandwiches.
Assemble tonkatsu sandwich with sauce and cabbage.
Tip: Brush hot oil over the pork for added flavor without sogginess.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Almond Milk
Ingredient: Eggs
→ Substitution: Flaxseed Meal + Water
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Flour Blend
Ingredient: Soy
→ Substitution: Coconut Aminos
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Tonkatsu is a popular Japanese dish made by breading and deep-frying pork cutlets.
- •The traditional breading for Tonkatsu uses panko breadcrumbs, which create a light and crispy texture.
- •Marinating the pork in buttermilk helps to tenderize the meat and add flavor.
- •Serving Tonkatsu with a side of shredded cabbage is common, as it acts as a refreshing palate cleanser.
