Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet) is a delightful dish that showcases the exquisite flavors of Japanese cuisine. This crispy, golden cutlet is made from seasoned ground meat, coated in panko breadcrumbs, and served with a homemade tangy katsu sauce. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a satisfying lunch. You’ll love the crunch on the outside and the juicy filling that makes each bite unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: The steps are straightforward, making it simple for anyone to cook at home.
• Flavor Explosion: A mix of savory beef and seasonings creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy Menchi Katsu as a main course, in a bento box, or as a snack.
• Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumb coating adds a delightful crunch.
• Homemade Sauce: The tangy sauce elevates the dish and can be adjusted to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Menchi Katsu seamlessly, having the right tools is essential. These tools will ensure you achieve perfect results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wire rack
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: A good frying pan distributes heat evenly, ensuring that your Menchi Katsu cooks perfectly without burning.
• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients smoothly, which helps in achieving a well-blended mixture.
• Whisk: A whisk is ideal for beating eggs uniformly, ensuring even coating on your patties.
• Wire rack: Using a wire rack allows excess oil to drain off your cutlets, giving them that perfect crispy finish.

Ingredients

Menchi Katsu is made using fresh ingredients that come together to create a delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

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:

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

For Frying:

• Cooking oil (to fry)

For 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: Optional Preparation of Gelatin

Optional step: Add 50 ml chicken stock and ½ tsp Vegan vegan gelatin powder to a microwaveable bowl. Let it bloom for 5-10 minutes. Microwave at 20-second intervals until the gelatin has dissolved. Refrigerate it to set for about 3 hours.

Step 2: Cook Onions

Heat a frying pan over medium heat and melt 1 tsp butter. Add 100 g diced onion and fry until softened and slightly golden.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add 100 g ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Pour in ½ tbsp mirin and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce. Stir continuously until most of the liquid evaporates. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Step 5: Prepare Panko Mixture

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

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, place 150 g ground beef. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add wet panko mixture, egg yolk, tomato ketchup, sugar, nutmeg powder, and cooled meat/onion mixture. Mix well. If using chicken stock jelly, add it here too.

Step 7: Shape Patties

Divide the mixture into equal portions—about four—and shape into oval discs.

Step 8: Chill Patties

Place shaped patties on a tray, cover them up, and rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes.

Step 9: Prepare Oil Temperature

Preheat cooking oil to around 160 °C (320 °F). Set up three plates—one with flour, one with whisked egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 10: Coat Patties

Coat each patty with flour first; shake off excess. Dip it into whisked egg followed by panko breadcrumbs. Press gently but don’t squash them down.

Step 11: Double Coating

For extra crunchiness, coat each patty again with egg and panko breadcrumbs.

Step 12: Fry Patties

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

Step 13: Drain Excess Oil

Remove cooked patties from oil; place them on a wire rack to drain off excess oil before increasing heat of oil to about 180 °C (356 °F).

Step 14: Final Frying

Return menchi katsu to hot oil for an additional minute or two on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 15: Serve

Allow draining on wire rack once more before serving hot with dried parsley sprinkled on top alongside your homemade sauce. Drizzle or dip as preferred! Enjoy!

How to Serve Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu is delicious on its own, but serving it with complementary sides and sauces enhances the experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish.

Classic Accompaniments

• Shredded Cabbage: A crisp, refreshing side that balances the richness of the Menchi Katsu.
• Steamed Rice: Perfect for soaking up the flavors of the katsu sauce and providing a hearty base.
• Miso Soup: A warm, comforting soup that pairs well with the crispy cutlets.

Dipping Sauces

• Homemade Katsu Sauce: Drizzle or dip your Menchi Katsu in a tangy sauce made from tomato ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.
• Soy Sauce: A classic option that adds umami depth to every bite.
• Spicy Mayonnaise: Mix mayonnaise with a touch of sriracha for a creamy, spicy kick.

Garnishes

• Dried Parsley: Sprinkle on top for a pop of color and mild flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish, adding acidity that cuts through the richness.

How to Perfect Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Creating the perfect Menchi Katsu requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

• bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and onions enhance flavor and texture, making your cutlets delicious.
• bold Monitor Oil Temperature: Frying at the right temperature ensures that the cutlets cook evenly while achieving a golden crust.
• bold Chill Before Frying: Letting the patties rest in the fridge helps them hold their shape during frying.
• bold Double Coat with Panko: For an extra crispy texture, coat each patty in egg and panko breadcrumbs twice before frying.

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

Pairing side dishes with Menchi Katsu can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad offers a light contrast to the rich cutlets.
2. Pickled Vegetables: Add tangy pickles to provide balance and enhance flavors in every bite.
3. Japanese Potato Salad: Creamy and slightly sweet, this dish complements the savory notes of Menchi Katsu beautifully.
4. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame makes for a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare.
5. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: This simple side brings freshness and healthiness to your meal while being quick to cook.
6. Onigiri (Rice Balls): These flavorful rice balls can be filled with various ingredients like umeboshi or salmon for added taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Menchi Katsu, there are a few common mistakes that can impact your final dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Not seasoning properly – Failing to season the beef mixture can lead to bland cutlets. Make sure to add enough salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

• Skipping the chilling step – If you skip letting the patties rest in the fridge, they may fall apart while frying. Always chill them for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

• Overcrowding the pan – Frying too many patties at once can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy cutlets. Cook in batches to ensure they fry evenly and get crispy.

• Using stale breadcrumbs – Stale panko breadcrumbs won’t provide that desired crunch. Always use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture.

• Inadequate oil temperature – If your oil isn’t hot enough, the cutlets will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to maintain the correct frying temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Menchi Katsu in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow cutlets to cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

• Freeze cooked Menchi Katsu for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 180 °C (356 °F) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Menchi Katsu:

What is Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)?

Menchi Katsu is a delicious Japanese dish made from seasoned ground meat patties that are breaded and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.

Can I use other meats for Menchi Katsu?

Yes! While traditional recipes often use ground beef, you can substitute with ground chicken, lamb, or turkey based on your preference.

How do I make homemade katsu sauce?

You can easily mix together equal parts of Worcestershire sauce and ketchup, adding a dash of rice vinegar for tanginess. Adjust according to taste!

Can I bake Menchi Katsu instead of frying it?

Absolutely! While frying gives it a unique crispiness, you can bake the patties at 200 °C (392 °F) until cooked through, though they may not be as crunchy.

Final Thoughts

Menchi Katsu is not only a tasty meal but also versatile. You can customize it by experimenting with different ground meats or adding spices according to your preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!