Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy Perfection: The golden-brown breaded cutlets provide an irresistible crunch.
  • Savory-Sweet Sauce: The homemade Tonkatsu sauce elevates the dish with its bold flavors.
  • Customizable: Pair with pickled vegetables, miso soup, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Katsu:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless beef slices, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice:

  • 1 cup cooked rice

For the Tonkatsu Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Katsu: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and milk until combined.
  2. Coat the Cutlets: Dredge each beef slice in the flour mixture, dip in the egg mixture, and coat thoroughly with panko bread crumbs.
  3. Cook the Katsu: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the breaded cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Make the Tonkatsu Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice into serving bowls. Place the Katsu cutlets on top and drizzle generously with Tonkatsu sauce.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with tofu or eggplant slices.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • Extra Crunch: Double-coat the cutlets for an even thicker breading.
  • Spicy Sauce: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of Sriracha.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover cutlets and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat cutlets in an oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to maintain crispiness. Warm the sauce in a microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook the breaded cutlets in a preheated air fryer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. What can I serve with Katsu Bowls?

Pair them with miso soup, pickled vegetables, or a light cucumber salad.

3. How do I keep the cutlets crispy?

Let the cutlets rest on a wire rack after frying to prevent sogginess.

4. Can I make the Tonkatsu sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

5. What type of rice works best?

Short-grain Japanese rice or sushi rice is ideal for this dish.

6. Can I bake the cutlets instead of frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.

7. What’s the best way to slice the meat?

Cut the beef against the grain for tender, easy-to-eat pieces.

8. Can I freeze the cooked cutlets?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.

9. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce on low heat for a few extra minutes to thicken it.

10. Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level is mild. Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Conclusion

This Japanese Katsu Bowl is a simple yet flavorful meal that brings restaurant-quality dining to your home. With crispy breaded cutlets, fragrant rice, and a savory-sweet Tonkatsu sauce, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Customize it to your taste, and enjoy the perfect blend of textures and flavors in every bite.


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Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Crispy breaded cutlets served over fluffy rice and topped with a savory-sweet homemade Tonkatsu sauce make these Japanese Katsu Bowls a flavorful, easy-to-make meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe is customizable, quick, and packed with umami goodness.

 


Ingredients

For the Katsu:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless beef slices, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Rice:

  • 1 cup cooked rice

For the Tonkatsu Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Katsu:
    • Mix flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
    • Whisk egg and milk together in a separate bowl.
  • Coat the Cutlets:
    • Dredge beef slices in the flour mixture, dip into the egg mixture, and coat with panko bread crumbs.
  • Cook the Katsu:
    • Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
  • Make the Tonkatsu Sauce:
    • Whisk soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
  • Assemble the Bowls:
    • Divide rice into bowls. Top with cooked cutlets and drizzle with Tonkatsu sauce.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, substitute beef with tofu or eggplant slices.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari for a gluten-free variation.
  • Store cutlets and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: an-Frying
  • Cuisine: Japanese

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