How to Make Restaurant-Style Pork Cutlets (Donkatsu) at Home

 

Hello, everyone! 😊
Today, I’m excited to share a simple and delicious recipe for restaurant-style pork cutlets (Donkatsu) that you can easily make at home. With a crispy coating and a savory sauce, this dish brings back nostalgic flavors of classic Western-style meals often enjoyed in Korea. Best of all, you can prepare it using ingredients you likely already have at home. Let’s get started!

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📌 Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Pork Cutlets:

• Pork loin: 2 pieces (150g–200g each)
• Salt and black pepper: a pinch
• All-purpose flour: 1/2 cup
• Egg: 1 (beaten)
• Breadcrumbs: 1 cup
• Cooking oil: enough for frying

For the Sauce:

• Ketchup: 4 tablespoons
• Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon
• Water: 1/2 cup
• Onion: 1/4 (finely chopped)
• Butter: 1 tablespoon

For Serving:

• Shredded cabbage: a handful
• Mayonnaise: optional, to taste
• Steamed rice: 2 servings

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🥄 Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Cutlets

1. Pat the pork loin dry with a paper towel and use the back of a knife to gently pound the meat until thin and tender.
2. Sprinkle both sides with salt and black pepper to season.

2. Coat the Pork Cutlets

1. Dredge the pork in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Press the pork into the breadcrumbs, firmly patting to coat it evenly.

3. Fry the Pork Cutlets

1. Heat a deep frying pan with enough cooking oil to 170–180°C (340–360°F).
2. To test the temperature, drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil—if it floats up immediately, it’s ready.
3. Fry the pork cutlets for 2–3 minutes on one side, then flip and fry for another 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

4. Make the Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
2. Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and water. Stir well.
3. Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Serve the Donkatsu

1. Plate the pork cutlets and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Drizzle the warm sauce generously over the cutlets.
3. Add a side of steamed rice and shredded cabbage to the plate. For extra flavor, drizzle mayonnaise over the cabbage if desired.

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🍴 Tips for the Best Donkatsu

• Double-fry the pork cutlets for an even crispier texture. After the first fry, let them rest for a minute, then fry them again briefly.
• You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
• Pair the dish with some pickled radish or miso soup for a more complete meal.

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🏡 Final Thoughts

Making pork cutlets at home is easier than you might think, and it’s a fantastic way to recreate the nostalgic flavors of a restaurant-style meal. This recipe is perfect for a weekend dinner with family or friends. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! 😊

If you have any questions or tips of your own, feel free to leave a comment below. I’d love to hear from you!
Wishing you a delicious day ahead! 💕

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