Katsudon (Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl) - Authentic Recipe Guide

🍱 About This Dish

Katsudon is a popular Japanese donburi dish consisting of a deep-fried pork cutlet (tonkatsu) simmered with eggs and onions, served over a bowl of steamed rice. This dish is a comforting and hearty meal that has been enjoyed in Japan for decades.

🥢 Traditional Role

Katsudon holds a special place in Japanese cuisine as a classic comfort food that is often served in casual dining establishments and households. It is a symbol of home-cooked goodness and is beloved for its satisfying flavors and textures.

📝 Ingredients

Tonkatsu (breaded deep-fried pork cutlet)
Eggs (tamago)
Onion (tamanegi)
Dashi broth
Soy sauce (shoyu)
Mirin
Sugar
Rice (gohan)
Green onions (negi)
Pickled ginger (beni shoga)

🔪 Kitchen Tools

Deep-fryer or frying pan
Medium saucepan
Wooden chopsticks
Rice cooker or pot for steaming rice

👨‍🍳 Preparation Steps

Cook rice according to package instructions.
Cut tonkatsu into bite-sized pieces.
Slice onions and green onions thinly.
In a saucepan, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Bring to a simmer.
Add onions to the broth and simmer until softened.
Add tonkatsu to the pan and simmer for a few minutes.
Beat eggs and pour them over the pork. Cover and cook until the eggs are set.
Serve the katsudon over a bowl of steamed rice.
Garnish with green onions and pickled ginger.

🎯 Key Techniques

Properly deep-frying the tonkatsu to achieve a crispy exterior.
Simmering the pork and eggs in the flavorful broth to infuse the dish with rich flavors.
Timing the cooking of the eggs to achieve a fluffy and custardy texture.

⏰ Timing Guide

Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

🍶 Serving Suggestions

Katsudon is traditionally served with a side of miso soup and a small salad to balance out the richness of the dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of shichimi togarashi for a spicy kick.

💭 Chef's Notes

For a modern twist, you can add a drizzle of tonkatsu sauce or mayonnaise on top of the katsudon before serving. Feel free to experiment with different proteins like chicken or tofu for a variation on this classic dish.

📦 Storage

Katsudon is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop to maintain the dish's flavors and textures.