Tonkatsu Easy Recipe
Say hello to Tonkatsu, Japan’s famous breaded pork cutlet. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a whole experience. Think juicy pork coated in ultra-crispy Japanese breadcrumbs, paired with a tangy, umami-packed tonkatsu sauce. If you’re new to Japanese cooking or a seasoned home chef, mastering how to make Tonkatsu at home is an absolute must.

Originating in the late 19th century, Tonkatsu emerged as a Japanese twist on Western-style breaded meats. Over time, it became a culinary staple, loved by kids, adults, and anyone with a taste for crispy perfection. Pair it with shredded cabbage, a squeeze of lemon, and a bowl of fluffy white rice for the best comfort meal. Oh, and don’t forget that signature sauce, which is so good you might just be tempted to drizzle it on everything else in your fridge.
What makes this dish special? It’s all about the layers. The pork is tender, the crust is crunchy, and the sauce brings that sweet-savory balance we all crave. Plus, it’s super versatile! Want to level it up? Toss it on top of a steaming bowl of ramen, and voilà—you’ve got Tonkatsu Ramen. Or serve it as a sandwich (Katsu Sando, anyone?) for a quick, crowd-pleasing lunch.
In this easy-to-follow Tonkatsu recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of making perfectly crispy cutlets, including tips for frying, breading, and creating a flawless homemade sauce. Spoiler alert: It’s simpler than you think, and the results will have you feeling like a pro chef.

Tonkatsu
Description
This easy Tonkatsu recipe delivers golden, crispy pork cutlets paired with a rich, tangy homemade tonkatsu sauce. A true Japanese classic!
For the Tonkatsu
For the Tonkatsu Sauce
Instructions
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Prepare the Pork
Flatten the pork chops to an even thickness (approx. 1 cm). Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.Use a meat mallet for best results. -
Coat the Pork
Dredge the pork chops in flour, dip them into the beaten eggs, and coat them thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs to stick well. -
Heat the Oil
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 175°C (350°F). -
Fry the Pork
Fry the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.Fry in batches if necessary. -
Make the Tonkatsu Sauce
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mirin, and mustard (if using). Stir until smooth.Adjust sweetness to taste. -
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the pork chops into strips. Serve with shredded cabbage, lemon wedges, white rice, and tonkatsu sauce.