Chinese-style Crispy Pork Cutlet

Ingredients

In this Chinese adaptation of the Japanese Tonkatsu, we incorporate Chinese spices and seasonings to infuse the dish with unique flavors. The cooking technique remains similar, with the pork cutlet being breaded and fried until crispy. However, the Chinese-style Crispy Pork Cutlet showcases the distinct taste profile of Chinese aristocrat cuisine, offering a delightful fusion of flavors that sets it apart from the traditional Japanese Tonkatsu. We alse have the original recipe for Tonkatsu, so you can check it out.

• 4 pork loin chops (about 1 inch thick) 4 pork loin chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste Pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the five-spice powder, garlic powder, ginger powder, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine to make the marinade.
2. 2.
   Place the pork loin chops in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Rub the marinade into the meat, ensuring it is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
4. 4.
   In another bowl, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat.
6. 6.
   Take each marinated pork chop and dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat it with flour, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres to the meat.
7. 7.
   Carefully place the breaded pork chops into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
8. 8.
   Once cooked, transfer the pork cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. 9.
   Slice the crispy pork cutlets into strips and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork loin chops — Choose cuts with a good amount of fat marbling for juicier and more flavorful results.
• Shaoxing wine — If unavailable, you can substitute it with dry sherry or rice wine vinegar.
• Five-spice powder — Ensure you use a high-quality five-spice powder for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy crust, double coat the pork cutlets by dipping them in the beaten eggs and flour mixture twice.
• Serve the Chinese-style Crispy Pork Cutlet with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences by adding more or less salt, pepper, or spices.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese-style Crispy Pork Cutlet hot, either as a main dish or as part of a larger Chinese aristocrat-inspired feast. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey for a delightful flavor combination.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced Chinese-style Crispy Pork Cutlet on a platter, allowing the golden-brown color to shine. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for an elegant presentation.