Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet) is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Japan right to your kitchen. This crispy, golden meat cutlet, made from seasoned ground beef, is perfect for various occasions, from casual meals to elegant dinners. With its crunchy panko coating and rich homemade sauce, Menchi Katsu stands out as a comfort food favorite that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The blend of spices and sauces creates a mouthwatering taste that will have you coming back for seconds.
• Crispy Texture: Thanks to the panko breadcrumbs, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, in a sandwich, or as part of a bento box—perfect for any meal!
• Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe easy to whip up.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add vegetables for extra nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To make Menchi Katsu efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: A non-stick frying pan ensures even cooking and prevents the patties from sticking.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
• Whisk: This tool is essential for beating eggs uniformly before coating the patties.

Ingredients

For the Beef Patty

• ½ tsp Vegan 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 and Frying

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

For the 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: Prepare Chicken Stock Jelly (Optional)

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

Step 2: Sauté Onions

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

Step 3: Cook Ground Beef Mixture

• Add 100 g ground beef to the pan with onions. Cook until browned.
• Pour in ½ tbsp mirin and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce. Stir until nearly dry. Remove from heat and cool.

Step 4: Combine Patty Ingredients

• In a small bowl, mix together 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs with 1 ½ tbsp whole milk.
• In a mixing bowl, combine 150 g ground beef with salt and pepper.
• Add wet panko mixture, egg yolk, tomato ketchup, sugar, nutmeg powder, and cooled meat/onion mixture. Mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Shape Patties

• Divide mixture into equal portions and shape into ovals or discs.
• Place on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare for Frying

• Preheat cooking oil in another pan to 160 °C (320 °F).
• Set up three plates for coating: one with flour, one with whisked egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 7: Coat Patties

• Coat each patty in flour, shaking off excess.
• Dip in whisked egg followed by panko breadcrumbs; press down gently.
• Repeat egg-dip and breadcrumb coating once more.

Step 8: Fry Patties

• Carefully place coated patties in hot oil; fry each side for about 2 minutes.
• Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.

Step 9: Finish Cooking

• Remove patties from oil; place on wire rack. Increase oil temp to 180 °C (356 °F).
• Return patties to fry until golden brown—about an additional minute per side.

Step 10: Serve

• Drain excess oil on wire rack. Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl or jug.
• Serve Menchi Katsu sprinkled with dried parsley alongside homemade sauce. Drizzle or dip as desired!

Enjoy your delicious Menchi Katsu!

How to Serve Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, lunch, or as a snack, there are many creative options to enhance your meal.

With Rice

• Serve Menchi Katsu alongside steamed white or brown rice for a filling and satisfying meal. The rice absorbs the flavors of the cutlet and sauce.

In a Sandwich

• Create a tasty sandwich by placing a Menchi Katsu patty between two slices of bread. Add lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for extra flavor.

With Salad

• Pair your Menchi Katsu with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with cucumber and carrots complements the rich taste of the cutlet.

As Part of a Bento Box

• Include Menchi Katsu in a bento box with rice, pickled vegetables, and fruit for a balanced meal that’s perfect for lunch on the go.

How to Perfect Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Creating the perfect Menchi Katsu requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cutlets turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your Menchi Katsu.

• Chill the Patties: Resting the patties in the fridge before frying helps them hold their shape better during cooking.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying in batches prevents temperature drops in oil, allowing for even cooking and crispiness.

• Double Coat for Crunch: For an extra crispy texture, double coat your patties with flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs before frying.

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

When serving Menchi Katsu, side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and pairs well with meat dishes.
2. Pickled Vegetables: Japanese pickles provide a nice tangy contrast to the richness of Menchi Katsu.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balance to each bite.
4. Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is a healthy snack that complements any meal.
5. Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura vegetables can bring additional textures to your plate.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar is refreshing alongside hearty cutlets.
7. Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salad with sesame dressing can offer a delightful twist to your meal.
8. Fruit Platter: End your meal on a sweet note with seasonal fruits like melon or berries for brightness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Menchi Katsu can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong meat: Ensure you use the right type of ground meat. Ground beef is preferred for its flavor and texture. Avoid mixing too many types, which can alter the taste.
• Not cooling the mixture: Failing to cool the meat and onion mixture before shaping can result in patties that fall apart during frying. Always let it cool to room temperature.
• Skipping the chilling step: After shaping your patties, don’t skip resting them in the fridge. Chilling helps them hold their shape while frying.
• Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many patties at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy katsu. Fry in batches to maintain a crispy texture.
• Inconsistent coating: Ensure even coating of flour, egg, and panko on each patty. An uneven layer may cause some areas to burn while others remain undercooked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Menchi Katsu in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

• Allow cooked katsu to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Place katsu on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: For a quick option, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Note that this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and re-fry katsu for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Menchi Katsu.

What is Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)?

Menchi Katsu is a Japanese dish made from ground meat formed into patties, coated with panko breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until golden brown. It’s known for its crunchy exterior and juicy filling.

Can I use other meats for Menchi Katsu?

Yes! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option without losing flavor.

How do I prevent my Menchi Katsu from falling apart?

Cooling your meat mixture thoroughly before shaping and chilling the patties helps them maintain their structure while frying.

What should I serve with Menchi Katsu?

Menchi Katsu pairs well with rice, salad, or pickled vegetables. You can also serve it alongside tonkatsu sauce for dipping.

Can I make Menchi Katsu ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them before cooking. Just reheat as needed!

Final Thoughts

Menchi Katsu is not only delicious but also versatile. Its crunchy exterior combined with a flavorful interior makes it a standout dish suitable for various occasions. Feel free to customize your ingredients by adding vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is to make!