Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet) is a delightful and crispy dish that brings together seasoned ground meat, a crunchy panko coating, and a tangy sauce. It’s perfect for any occasion, from lunch to dinner or even as a snack. This Japanese classic offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up Menchi Katsu in no time.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of spices, sauces, and the crunch of panko creates a mouthwatering taste sensation.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy Menchi Katsu on its own, in a bento box, or as part of a main meal – it fits any dining occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for family dinner or entertaining guests, everyone loves the crispy exterior and juicy filling.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ground meat or spices to cater to your personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Menchi Katsu, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wire rack
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: A good frying pan ensures even cooking and browning for that perfect crispy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized while preparing the filling and coatings.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for blending egg mixtures smoothly, ensuring an even coating on each patty.
• Wire rack: Using a wire rack allows excess oil to drain off the patties, keeping them crisp.

Ingredients

For the Patties

• 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
• 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 (whisked)
• 150 g panko breadcrumbs

For Frying

• Cooking oil

For Garnishing and Sauce

• Dried parsley (to garnish)
• 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 Optional Gelatin Mixture

Add 50 ml chicken stock and ½ tsp vegan gelatin powder to a microwaveable bowl. Let it bloom for 5-10 minutes. Microwave for 20-second intervals until the gelatin dissolves. Place in the refrigerator to set for about 3 hours. Once set, break it into small pieces.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

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

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add 100 g of ground beef to the pan with onions. Fry until browned thoroughly.

Step 4: Season Meat Mixture

Pour in ½ tbsp mirin and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce into the mixture. Stir well, continue frying until almost all liquid evaporates, then remove from heat. Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature.

Step 5: Prepare Panko Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together 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 a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the wet panko mixture, 1 egg yolk, ½ tsp tomato ketchup, 1 tsp sugar, nutmeg powder, and cooled onion mixture. Mix everything well; if using chicken stock jelly, add it now.

Step 7: Shape Patties

Divide the mixture into equal portions; shaping into ovals or discs works best.

Step 8: Chill Patties

Place shaped patties on a tray. Cover them with plastic wrap and rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Step 9: Prepare for Frying

Preheat your cooking oil to approximately 160 °C (320 °F). Prepare three containers: one with flour (85 g), one with whisked egg (1), and one with panko breadcrumbs (150 g).

Step 10: Bread the Patties

Coat each patty in flour first; shake off excess flour. Next, dip into whisked egg before covering generously with panko breadcrumbs. Gently press down without squashing them.

Step 11: Double Coat

For extra crunchiness, coat each patty again in whisked egg followed by more panko breadcrumbs.

Step 12: Fry Patties

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

Step 13: Drain Excess Oil

Remove cooked patties from oil; place them on a wire rack while increasing oil temperature to around180 °C (356 °F).

Step 14: Final Frying

Once oil is hot enough again, return menchi katsu to fry for an additional minute or two on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 15: Serve

Let them drain excess oil on a wire rack once more before serving.

Serve your delicious Menchi Katsu drizzled with homemade sauce made from mixing remaining sauce ingredients in a small bowl or jug! Garnish with dried parsley if desired! Enjoy!

How to Serve Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Pairing it with the right sides and garnishes enhances its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your Menchi Katsu experience even better.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic choice that balances the rich flavors of Menchi Katsu.
• Fried Rice: Adds an enjoyable texture and extra taste with vegetables or eggs mixed in.

As a Sandwich

• Katsu Sando: Place the cutlet between slices of soft white bread, with a spread of tonkatsu sauce for a delicious sandwich.
• Bento Box: Include Menchi Katsu in a bento box with rice and pickled vegetables for a complete meal on-the-go.

With Salad

• Cabbage Salad: A refreshing side of finely shredded cabbage dressed with sesame or soy sauce complements the crispy cutlet.
• Mixed Green Salad: Lightly dressed greens add freshness and crunch to balance the richness of the katsu.

Dipping Sauce

• Homemade Katsu Sauce: Drizzle or serve on the side for dipping. The tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the meatiness of the cutlet.
• Spicy Mayo: For those who enjoy a kick, mix mayonnaise with sriracha for a creamy and spicy dip.

How to Perfect Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Creating the perfect Menchi Katsu involves attention to detail at every step. Here are some tips to ensure your cutlet turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly ground beef and produce enhance flavor and texture.
• Chill Before Frying: Resting shaped patties in the fridge allows them to firm up, making them easier to handle while frying.
• Double Coat for Crunch: Coating each patty twice in egg and panko breadcrumbs ensures an extra crunchy exterior.
• Control Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature; frying at too low will result in greasy cutlets.
• Drain Properly: Let fried patties rest on a wire rack to prevent sogginess from excess oil.
• Experiment with Fillings: Add grated cheese or sautéed mushrooms inside the patty for unique flavor variations.

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

Menchi Katsu pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutritional value; steam lightly for tenderness.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comforting flavors that pair nicely with katsu.
3. Pickled Radishes: The tangy crunch of pickled radishes provides a refreshing contrast to the savory cutlet.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds richness; consider adding peas or carrots for extra texture.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring sweetness and depth; toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
6. Noodle Salad: Chilled noodle salad dressed with sesame sauce is light yet satisfying, making it an ideal companion for katsu.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Menchi Katsu, it’s easy to overlook some essential steps that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the patties before frying helps them hold their shape. If you skip this step, they may fall apart in the oil.
• Using too much oil: Overcrowding the pan can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy cutlets. Fry in batches to maintain the right temperature.
• Not seasoning enough: Failing to season your meat mixture can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your mixture and adjust seasoning as necessary.
• Ignoring the frying temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature results in greasy patties, while too high can burn them. Use a thermometer to ensure a steady oil temperature of 160-180 °C (320-356 °F).
• Inadequate coating: Skipping a double coating of panko breadcrumbs can lead to less crunchiness. Make sure each patty is well coated twice for that perfect crispy texture.
• Rushing the sauce preparation: The sauce is crucial for flavor. Take your time to mix it well and let it sit briefly for better taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Menchi Katsu in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

• Place cooked Menchi Katsu in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180 °C (356 °F) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking often to prevent overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Menchi Katsu and its preparation.

What is Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)?

Menchi Katsu is a Japanese dish made from seasoned ground meat patties that are breaded with panko and fried until golden brown.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can use ground chicken, turkey, or lamb as alternatives to beef when making Menchi Katsu.

How do I achieve a crispy texture?

To get that perfect crispiness, ensure you coat each patty in flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs twice before frying.

Can I make Menchi Katsu ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to fry them.

What sauce pairs best with Menchi Katsu?

A tangy homemade sauce made with Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and rice vinegar perfectly complements Menchi Katsu.

Final Thoughts

Menchi Katsu is a deliciously versatile dish that combines savory flavors with a satisfying crunch. It’s perfect for any meal—lunch or dinner—and can easily be customized with various sauces or sides. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!