Japanese Katsudon

Story behind the dish

Japanese Katsudon is a comforting, soul-warming bowl that combines crispy breaded pork cutlet with a savory sauce and fluffy rice. It’s a dish that’s beloved across Japan, often enjoyed as a hearty meal after a long day or a special comfort food during chilly evenings. The vibrant interplay of flavors—crunchy, tender, sweet, and savory—makes it a true celebration of Japanese home cooking.

This particular recipe takes you on a delicious journey combining simple ingredients into a bowl of pure satisfaction. The golden pork cutlet, coated in crispy breadcrumbs, is simmered briefly in a rich, umami-packed sauce before being topped with soft-cooked eggs and fresh chives. It’s beauty in simplicity that can be whipped up at home and enjoyed any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (about 0.5 fl oz / 15 ml)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 lb (16 oz / 450 g) pork cutlet, cooked and sliced (see note)
• 5 fl oz (150 ml) vegetable stock
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon mirin
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 7 oz (200 g) sushi rice
• Chopped chives, for garnish

Step-by-step

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Once caramelized, nestle the sliced pork cutlet into the center of the skillet.
2. In a small bowl, mix the vegetable stock, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Pour three-quarters of this mixture around the pork cutlet. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the pork reheats.
3. Carefully pour the beaten eggs around the pork in the skillet. Cover and cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes, just until the eggs are set but still a little runny.
4. Meanwhile, prepare your sushi rice: cook according to package instructions and keep warm. Divide the rice evenly between two bowls.
5. Gently place the cooked pork and egg mixture on top of the rice in each bowl. Garnish generously with chopped chives. For an extra flavor punch, drizzle with a little more soy sauce if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For extra crunch, add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a dash of togarashi chili flakes on top before serving.
• Make it a complete meal by serving with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple miso soup.

Closing thoughts

There’s something truly soulful about a bowl of Katsudon — it’s a hearty hug in a dish that warms your spirit. From crispy pork to softly cooked eggs, every spoonful offers a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or impressing friends with your Japanese cuisine skills, this dish is a wonderfully satisfying choice that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.