Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet) is a delightful dish that brings the essence of Japanese comfort food right to your kitchen. This flavorful ground meat cutlet, enveloped in crispy panko breadcrumbs, is perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The savory filling and crunchy exterior make it an irresistible choice for meat lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can create this dish effortlessly.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and sauces creates a rich and savory flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Menchi Katsu fits perfectly in bento boxes, as a main course, or even as a delicious snack.
• Crispy Texture: The layering of panko breadcrumbs ensures each bite is delightfully crunchy.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to use different types of ground meat or adjust the seasonings to your liking.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Menchi Katsu experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Microwaveable bowl
• Whisk
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Essential for achieving that perfect golden crust while frying the patties.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in combining all the ingredients evenly for a consistent flavor throughout.
• Wire rack: Allows excess oil to drain off the patties, keeping them crispy after frying.

Ingredients

For Menchi Katsu, gather these fresh ingredients:

For the Filling

• ½ tsp Vegan vegan gelatin powder (optional)
• 50 ml chicken stock (optional)
• 1 tsp butter
• 100 g onion (finely diced)
• 100 g ground beef (for frying)
• 150 g ground beef (for using as it is)
• ½ tbsp mirin
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For Binding and Coating

• 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
• 1 ½ tbsp whole milk
• 1 egg yolk
• ½ tsp tomato ketchup
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 pinch nutmeg powder
• 1 pinch salt and pepper
• 85 g all-purpose flour (for dusting)
• 1 egg
• 150 g panko breadcrumbs

For Frying and Garnishing

• Dried parsley (to garnish)
• Cooking oil (to fry)

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp oyster sauce
• 1 dash olive oil
• 1 dash rice vinegar

How to Make Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Mixture (Optional)

1. Add 50 ml chicken stock and ½ tsp vegan gelatin powder to a microwaveable bowl.
2. Let it bloom for 5-10 minutes.
3. Microwave in 20-second intervals until dissolved. Refrigerate to set for about 3 hours.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

1. Heat a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Melt 1 tsp butter in the pan.
3. Add 100 g finely diced onion and fry until softened and slightly golden.

Step 3: Cook Ground Beef

1. Add 100 g ground beef to the pan with onions.
2. Fry until browned.
3. Pour in ½ tbsp mirin and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; stir until liquid reduces almost completely.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Prepare Panko Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs with 1 ½ tbsp whole milk.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, place 150 g ground beef seasoned with salt and pepper.
2. Add the wet panko mixture, egg yolk, tomato ketchup, sugar, nutmeg powder, and cooled meat/onion mixture; mix well.

Step 6: Shape Patties

1. Divide the mixture into equal portions—shaping them into ovals or discs as desired.
2. Place shaped patties on a tray, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Set Up Frying Station

1. Preheat cooking oil to 160 °C (320 °F).
2. Prepare three plates: one with flour, one with whisked egg, one with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 8: Bread Patties

1. Coat each patty in flour; pat off excess.
2. Dip into whisked egg followed by a generous layer of panko breadcrumbs—press gently.
3. Repeat coating each patty once more for extra crunch.

Step 9: Fry Patties

1. Carefully place patties into hot oil; fry for about 2 minutes on each side.
2. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.

Step 10: Crisp Up Patties

1. Remove fried patties from oil; place on a wire rack.
2. Increase oil temperature to 180 °C (356 °F).
3. Return menchi katsu to hot oil for another minute or two until golden brown.

Step 11: Drain Oil

Place fried patties back on wire rack to drain excess oil before serving.

Step 12: Prepare Sauce

Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl or serving jug.

Final Serving

Serve your delicious Menchi Katsu garnished with dried parsley alongside the homemade sauce for drizzling or dipping! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as part of a bento box or served with rice, there are many creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

On a Rice Bed

• Serve Menchi Katsu over a bed of steamed rice for a fulfilling meal. The combination of crispy cutlet and soft rice creates a delightful texture.

With Homemade Sauce

• Drizzle your homemade katsu sauce over the cutlets for added flavor. This tangy sauce complements the savory meat and crunchy panko perfectly.

In a Sandwich

• Slice Menchi Katsu and place it in a sandwich with fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomato. This makes for an easy lunch option that’s both hearty and satisfying.

As Part of a Bento Box

• Include Menchi Katsu in your bento box alongside pickled veggies and rice. This traditional presentation makes for an appealing and balanced meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair your Menchi Katsu with a refreshing salad. The crisp greens balance the richness of the meat cutlet, adding freshness to each bite.

How to Perfect Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Creating the perfect Menchi Katsu requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cutlets are always delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and vegetables will enhance the overall flavor profile of your Menchi Katsu.
• Chill Before Frying: Allowing the patties to rest in the fridge helps them hold their shape during frying, resulting in better texture.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep your frying oil at the right temperature to achieve that golden-brown crust without absorbing too much oil.
• Double Breading: For an extra crispy coating, double bread each patty by repeating the flour, egg, and panko steps.
• Drain Properly: After frying, let your Menchi Katsu drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Pairing Menchi Katsu with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Steamed Rice: A classic choice that balances out the flavors of the cutlet and is perfect for soaking up sauce.
2. Miso Soup: This warm soup adds depth to your meal with its umami flavor, making it a comforting addition.
3. Pickled Vegetables: Japanese pickles provide a tangy contrast that enhances the richness of the fried cutlet.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, creating a nice balance against the crispy patty.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly grilled seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of Menchi Katsu.
6. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides another layer of comfort food charm that pairs beautifully with meat dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Menchi Katsu can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Failing to Let the Mixture Cool: Always let your cooked meat and onion mixture cool before combining it with other ingredients. This prevents cooking the egg yolk when mixed.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many patties at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy cutlets. Cook in batches to ensure a crispy texture.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Don’t skip resting the patties in the fridge. This step helps them hold their shape during frying.
• Not Preparing a Proper Breading Station: Make sure you have an organized breading station with flour, egg, and panko ready to go. This speeds up the process and ensures even coating.
• Using Cold Oil: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. Cold oil can lead to greasy cutlets instead of a crispy golden exterior.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Menchi Katsu in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

• Place cooked Menchi Katsu in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Use caution as it may become soft rather than crispy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Menchi Katsu that might help you perfect this dish.

What is Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)?

Menchi Katsu is a Japanese dish made of ground meat patties, typically beef or chicken. They are breaded with panko and fried until golden brown.

Can I use other types of meat for Menchi Katsu?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How do I make Menchi Katsu gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

What should I serve with Menchi Katsu?

Menchi Katsu pairs well with white rice, salad, or even in a sandwich. The tangy katsu sauce complements it perfectly!

Final Thoughts

Menchi Katsu is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal occasion. Feel free to customize your filling by adding vegetables or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet) is a crispy, savory delight that captures the heart of Japanese comfort food. This dish features tender ground beef, perfectly seasoned and enveloped in a crunchy panko coating, making it an irresistible option for family dinners or festive gatherings. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch complemented by a rich filling, perfect for meat lovers. Whether served in bento boxes or as a main course with rice and homemade sauce, Menchi Katsu is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 100 g finely diced onion
• 250 g ground beef
• 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg yolk
• 150 g panko breadcrumbs (for coating)
• Cooking oil (for frying)
• Tomato ketchup for serving
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for serving

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Instructions

1. Sauté onions in butter until soft and golden.
2. Cook ground beef with onions, mirin, and Worcestershire sauce until browned; let cool.
3. Combine cooled meat mixture with panko breadcrumbs, egg yolk, tomato ketchup, sugar, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
4. Shape into patties and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Coat patties in flour, egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs.
6. Fry in hot oil until golden brown on both sides; drain on a wire rack.
7. Serve with homemade sauce for dipping.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 335
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 85mg