Pork Katsu with Quick Carrot Pickles

A Japanese-inspired dish featuring crispy panko-breaded pork cutlets served alongside tangy quick-pickled carrot ribbons and scallions. This satisfying meal combines crunchy textures with bright, fresh flavors.

2 servings
22 min

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 whole large carrots
  • 2 whole scallions
  • 1 whole large egg
  • 1 cup panko
  • 2 whole boneless center-cut pork chops
  • 4 tablespoons vegetable oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a large bowl. Using a vegetable peeler, shave as many ribbons as possible from carrots. Toss carrots and scallions with dressing.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Lightly beat egg in a shallow bowl. Combine panko, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper on a large plate.

    2 min

  3. 3.

    Pound pork chops to 1/8 inch thick between 2 sheets of plastic wrap with flat side of a meat pounder or with a rolling pin. Season both sides with 1/8 teaspoon each of salt and pepper (total).

    5 min

  4. 4.

    Coat with egg, letting excess drip off, then with panko, pressing to help adhere. Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Cook chops (in batches if necessary), turning once, until golden and just cooked through, 4 to 5 minutes total, adding remaining tablespoon oil if necessary. Drain briefly on paper towels and serve with carrot pickles.

    10 min

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