BBQ Tonkatsu - Grilled Breaded Pork

Name: BBQ Tonkatsu - Grilled Breaded Pork
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 pcs eggs (beaten); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp mirin; 1 tbsp sugar

45 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Delight in this fusion of Japanese tonkatsu and BBQ, delivering juicy grilled breaded pork with a smoky twist.

Prep

25 min

Cook

15 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Tonkatsu, a beloved Japanese dish traditionally deep-fried, is transformed into a delightful BBQ experience with this recipe. By grilling the breaded pork, you infuse it with a smoky aroma that complements the savory notes of the panko crust and the tangy-sweet tonkatsu sauce. The secret to this dish's success lies in its simplicity yet bold flavors. The crispy breading locks in the pork's natural juices while the grill adds a unique layer of flavor you can't achieve with frying alone. Perfect for both BBQ enthusiasts and fans of Japanese cuisine, this dish is sure to impress at your next cookout.

Instructions

Prepare the Tonkatsu Sauce

In a small bowl, mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar until well combined. Set aside.

Pro tip: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste.

Prepare the Pork Chops

Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Dredge each chop in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Pro tip: For an extra crunchy crust, double dip the chops in egg and panko.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.

Pro tip: Use a grill basket to make flipping easier and maintain the breading's integrity.

Grill the Tonkatsu

Place breaded pork chops on the grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Pro tip: Avoid pressing down on the pork to prevent juices from escaping.

Rest and Serve

Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice and serve with tonkatsu sauce drizzled over the top.

Pro tip: Use a sharp knife to slice the pork cleanly without disturbing the crust.

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Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect crust, ensure your grill is preheated to a medium-high temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F for safe consumption. Let the pork rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your BBQ Tonkatsu with a side of shredded cabbage and a drizzle of tonkatsu sauce to bring out the traditional flavors of this dish. Pair it with a refreshing Japanese cucumber salad or a side of steamed rice to complete the meal. For an extra touch, offer lemon wedges for your guests to squeeze over their servings, adding a zesty kick that balances the richness of the pork.