Learn How To Cook The Classic Japanese Dish: Chicken Katsu Don
Craving a hearty and comforting Japanese dish? Look no further than Chicken Katsu Don, a culinary delight that combines crispy chicken cutlets smothered in a savory sauce, all nestled on a bed of fluffy rice. This blog post will guide you through the art of cooking this delectable dish from scratch, ensuring you savor every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Katsu:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 1 pound)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked Japanese rice
- Thinly sliced green onions
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
1. Cut the chicken breast into thin slices against the grain.
2. Tenderize the chicken by pounding it with a meat mallet or rolling pin.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
Coat the Chicken:
1. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Dredge the chicken slices in the flour, then dip them into the eggs, and finally coat them with the panko breadcrumbs.
Fry the Chicken:
1. Heat a large skillet or deep fryer with enough oil to cover the chicken.
2. Fry the chicken slices in batches until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Drain the chicken on paper towels.
Make the Sauce:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, honey, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
3. In a separate bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in water.
4. Gradually whisk the cornstarch mixture into the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
Assemble the Katsu Don:
1. Place a bed of rice in a bowl or plate.
2. Top the rice with the crispy chicken katsu.
3. Pour the savory sauce over the chicken.
4. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions.
Tips:
- For extra crispy katsu, double-coat the chicken by repeating the dredging and frying process.
- To make the sauce ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve the Chicken Katsu Don with pickled ginger and a side of miso soup for a complete Japanese dining experience.
Variations:
- Tonkatsu Don: Substitute the chicken with pork cutlets.
- Ebi Katsu Don: Use breaded and fried shrimp instead of chicken.
- Vegetable Katsu Don: Coat vegetables like eggplant, potatoes, or carrots with the breading mixture and fry them for a vegetarian option.
Wrap-Up: Savor the Authentic Flavors of Japan
With these step-by-step instructions, you can now recreate the authentic flavors of Japanese Chicken Katsu Don in the comfort of your own kitchen. This hearty and satisfying dish is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, crank up some Japanese music, and embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Japan.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs are a good substitute for breasts. They are more flavorful and juicy, but be sure to trim off any excess fat.
Q: What is the best way to store leftover Chicken Katsu Don?
A: Store the katsu and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the katsu in the oven or toaster oven before serving.
Q: Can I make the Chicken Katsu Don ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the katsu and sauce up to 2 days ahead of time. Assemble the dish just before serving.