Description
These Japanese Crispy Tonkatsu Bites bring the perfect crunch and tenderness in every bite. Bite-sized pieces of juicy pork are coated in golden panko breadcrumbs, fried to crispy perfection, and served with tangy tonkatsu sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or party platters.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) boneless pork loin or chops, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups (150 g) Japanese panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Vegetable or canola oil for frying
Tonkatsu sauce (for serving)
Shredded cabbage or steamed rice (optional for serving)
Instructions
Pat pork cubes dry with paper towels, then season with salt and pepper.
Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Coat each pork piece first in flour, then dip into egg, and finally roll in panko. Press gently so breadcrumbs stick well.
Heat oil in a deep skillet to 340°F (170°C).
Fry pork bites in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Remove and place on a wire rack to drain. For extra crispness, re-fry briefly at 350°F (175°C) for 30 seconds.
Serve warm with tonkatsu sauce, shredded cabbage, or rice.
Notes
For a lighter version, bake or air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
Chicken or tofu can replace pork for dietary preferences.
Let the breaded pork rest for 10 minutes before frying to prevent the coating from falling off.
Avoid microwaving leftovers; use an oven or air fryer to reheat for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Deep Frying
- Method: Japanese
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4–5 bites)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg