# A Simple Oven-Baked Pork Tonkatsu
## Tonkatsu
If you’ve visited Japan, you’ve probably encountered the delightful tonkatsu: a crispy, panko-coated, deep-fried pork dish that is tender and flavorful. This dish has become a favorite for many, served with rice, in sandwiches, or even in salad rolls. However, there are moments when the craving for tonkatsu hits, but the urge to deep fry is lacking. This simple oven-baked tonkatsu recipe provides the ideal solution, delivering a similarly gratifying experience without the frying.
## Baked Tonkatsu
Crafting this oven-baked tonkatsu was a journey of exploration. While deep-frying pork chops is typical, achieving the same juicy and tender outcome through baking can be tricky. Drawing inspiration from a reverse sear technique, this approach yields a moist interior and a crispy breadcrumb coating. Pair it with fluffy white rice, shredded cabbage, and tonkatsu sauce for an authentic experience that whisks you away to Japan.
## Reasons to Prepare Oven Baked Pork Tonkatsu
– You enjoy pork chops and deep-fried delights but seek a healthier alternative.
– You want to feel as if you’re dining in Japan.
– You prefer low-maintenance cooking techniques.
– You wish to savor a meal without spending excessive time by the stove.
## Pro Tips
1. **Opt for Panko Breadcrumbs**: Panko is airier and crunchier than standard breadcrumbs, making it perfect for tonkatsu. Invest in a quality package of panko for optimal results.
2. **Toast the Panko**: Before applying it to your pork chop, toast the panko in a dry skillet. This step boosts the color and flavor, giving your tonkatsu its signature golden look.
3. **Cook at Low Temperature**: Baking the pork chop at a low heat ensures it cooks uniformly and retains moisture.
4. **Utilize a Meat Thermometer**: This gadget eliminates uncertainty in cooking, guaranteeing your pork is cooked just right.
5. **Accompany with Classic Sides**: Remember to complement your tonkatsu with shredded cabbage, white rice, and tonkatsu sauce for the complete experience.
## Tonkatsu Sauce
In Japan, numerous restaurants create their own tonkatsu sauce, but at home, Otafuku is a favored option. This sauce can be found in larger supermarkets, Asian grocery stores, and online.
## Recipe: Simple Oven Baked Pork Tonkatsu
### Ingredients
– 1 cup panko
– 1 tbsp neutral oil
– 1 thick-cut pork loin chop
– 2 tbsp flour
– 1 egg (lightly beaten)
#### To Serve
– Rice, shredded cabbage, tonkatsu sauce
### Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set the oven to 275°F. While it warms, toast the panko in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring until golden. Drizzle with oil and mix until evenly coated. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
2. **Prepare the Pork Chop**: Season each side of the pork chop with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with flour, shaking off the extra.
3. **Coat the Pork Chop**: Dip the chop into the beaten egg, then cover it with the toasted panko, pressing to ensure adherence. Place on a lightly oiled wire rack on a foil-lined baking sheet.
4. **Bake**: Bake until the internal temperature reaches 120°F, approximately 30-45 minutes depending on thickness. For a 1.5-inch chop, this will take around 40 minutes. Raise the oven temperature to 450°F and cook until the internal temperature hits 135°F, roughly 5 more minutes.
5. **Serve**: Slice the tonkatsu and serve with fluffy white rice, shredded cabbage, tonkatsu sauce, and Japanese mustard.
Savor your homemade oven-baked pork tonkatsu, a tasty and healthier alternative to the classic deep-fried version!