Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet) is a delightful dish that brings the savory flavors of Japan right to your kitchen. This crispy, golden cutlet made from seasoned ground beef pairs perfectly with a homemade katsu sauce, making it an excellent choice for dinner, lunch, or even meal prep. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve at gatherings. You’ll love how versatile and satisfying this dish is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip up Menchi Katsu without any fuss.
• Crispy Texture: The double coating of panko breadcrumbs ensures a delightful crunch in every bite.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spices and sauces creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as part of a bento box, alongside rice, or as a delicious snack.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust spices and sides according to your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything at hand will make the preparation smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Essential for achieving that perfect golden crust on your Menchi Katsu.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
• Wire rack: Helps drain excess oil from the cutlets while keeping them crispy.
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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 (or beef/beef mix, for frying)
• 150 g ground beef (or beef/beef mix, for using as it is)
• ½ tbsp mirin
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 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

For Coating and Frying

• 85 g all-purpose flour (for dusting)
• 1 egg
• 150 g panko breadcrumbs
• 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 (Optional)

In a microwaveable bowl, combine 50 ml chicken stock and ½ tsp Vegan vegan gelatin powder. Let it bloom for about 5-10 minutes. Microwave in 20-second intervals until completely dissolved. Refrigerate for approximately three hours until set.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Melt 1 tsp butter in the pan and add 100 g finely diced onion. Sauté until softened and slightly golden, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add 100 g ground beef to the pan with onions. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Pour in ½ tbsp mirin and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and continue cooking until most liquid has evaporated. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Step 5: Combine Panko Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs with 1 ½ tbsp whole milk until combined.

Step 6: Prepare Meat Mixture

In a mixing bowl, add the remaining 150 g ground beef. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the wet panko mixture, egg yolk, tomato ketchup, sugar, nutmeg powder, and cooled meat/onion mixture. Mix thoroughly until well-combined.

Step 7: Shape Patties

Divide the mixture into equal portions—about four patties—and shape them into ovals or discs.

Step 8: Chill Patties

Place shaped patties on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 9: Prepare for Frying

Heat cooking oil in a deep pot or frying pan to around 160 °C (320 °F). Set up three containers with all-purpose flour, whisked egg, and panko breadcrumbs respectively.

Step 10: Coat Patties

Coat each patty lightly with flour then dip into whisked egg followed by panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure breading adheres well.

Step 11: Double Coat

Repeat coating each patty again with whisked egg and panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Step 12: Fry Patties

Carefully place breaded patties in hot oil. Fry for about two minutes on each side or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary.

Step 13: Drain Excess Oil

Remove fried patties from oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 14: Increase Oil Temperature

Raise the oil temperature to about 180 °C (356 °F). Return patties to fry again for another minute or two per side until they are perfectly crispy.

Step 15: Prepare Sauce

In a small bowl or serving jug, mix together sauce ingredients including tomato ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oyster sauce, olive oil, and rice vinegar.

Step 16: Serve

Garnish menchi katsu with dried parsley before serving alongside your homemade sauce. Drizzle over or use as a dip—enjoy every crunchy bite!

How to Serve Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu is best enjoyed hot and fresh, but there are many creative ways to serve this delicious dish. Whether you prefer it in a bento box or as part of a hearty meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white rice complements the crispy texture of Menchi Katsu perfectly. A drizzle of sauce over the rice adds an extra layer of flavor.

In a Sandwich

• Create a Japanese-style sandwich by placing the fried Menchi Katsu in between soft bread slices. Add lettuce and katsu sauce for a tasty lunch option.

With Cabbage Salad

• Serve Menchi Katsu along with a refreshing cabbage salad. The crunchiness of the cabbage balances the richness of the cutlet.

As Part of a Bento Box

• Pack Menchi Katsu in a bento box with rice, pickles, and seasonal vegetables. It makes for a colorful and balanced meal on-the-go.

Dipped in Sauce

• Serve with a homemade tangy dipping sauce made from ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and rice vinegar for an irresistible flavor boost.

How to Perfect Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Perfecting Menchi Katsu requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your cutlets turn out delicious every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use fresh ground beef or a mix of beef for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Rush Cooling: Allow the meat mixture to cool completely before shaping. This helps maintain the shape during frying.
• Double Coating: For an extra crispy crust, coat each patty twice with egg and panko breadcrumbs.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at the right temperature (160-180 °C) for even cooking and to avoid greasy patties.
• Rest After Frying: Let cooked Menchi Katsu rest on a wire rack to drain excess oil before serving for optimal crispiness.

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

Pairing your Menchi Katsu with complementary side dishes enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Japanese Potato Salad: Creamy and tangy, this salad is made with mashed potatoes, carrots, and cucumbers. It’s perfect for balancing flavors.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds warmth and comfort to your meal while providing umami flavors.
3. Pickled Vegetables: Brighten your plate with tangy pickled veggies like daikon or cucumber for added crunch and acidity.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy green side that pairs well with the richness of Menchi Katsu.
5. Edamame: These protein-rich soybeans make for a fun finger food while being nutritious at the same time.
6. Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice dish can serve as an excellent base for your cutlet, soaking up its delicious juices.
7. Seaweed Salad: The lightness of seaweed salad offers contrast to the fried cutlet while adding interesting textures.
8. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic adds a burst of color and nutrients that complement your main dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Menchi Katsu can be simple, but it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the meat: This can lead to tough patties. Mix until just combined to keep the texture tender.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not resting the patties in the fridge can cause them to fall apart while frying. Always chill them for at least 30 minutes.
• Using too much oil: Overcrowding the frying pan will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy cutlets. Fry in batches for an even cook.
• Neglecting seasoning: Underseasoned meat leads to bland flavors. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before shaping the patties.
• Ignoring cooking temperatures: Frying at incorrect temperatures can burn or undercook your Menchi Katsu. Use a thermometer to ensure proper heat levels.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Menchi Katsu in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

• Wrap each cutlet individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil for about 5 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)?

Menchi Katsu is a Japanese dish made from seasoned ground meat patties coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown.

Can I use different meats for Menchi Katsu?

Yes! While traditional recipes often use beef, you can also try turkey or chicken as alternatives.

How do I make Menchi Katsu crispy?

To achieve that perfect crunch, ensure that you coat each patty evenly with panko breadcrumbs and fry at the right temperature.

Can I freeze uncooked Menchi Katsu?

Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked patties before frying them. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

What sauce goes well with Menchi Katsu?

A simple homemade katsu sauce made from ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and rice vinegar pairs perfectly with this dish.

Final Thoughts

Menchi Katsu is not only delicious but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions like lunch boxes or casual dinners. Feel free to customize your filling by adding vegetables or experimenting with spices. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how satisfying it is!