Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Name: Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 100 g onion (finely diced); 250 g ground beef (for frying); 1 egg yolk; 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs; 85 g all-purpose flour (for dusting); 1 egg (for coating); Cooking oil (for frying)

Published: December 24, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef and spices creates a rich, savory filling that’s sure to satisfy.
Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumb coating gives each cutlet an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside.
Versatile Meal Option: Whether served on its own, in a sandwich, or as part of a bento box, Menchi Katsu fits any occasion!
Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish without any hassle.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Menchi Katsu, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Frying pan
Mixing bowls
Wire rack
Microwaveable bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Frying Pan: A good frying pan ensures even cooking and browning of the patties.
Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
Wire Rack: Allows excess oil to drain off the fried cutlets while keeping them crispy.

Ingredients

For the Meat Mixture

½ tsp 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

85 g all-purpose flour (for dusting)
1 egg
150 g panko breadcrumbs

For Frying

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

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin (Optional)

Add 50 ml chicken stock and ½ tsp Vegan Vegan Gelatin powder to a microwaveable bowl.
Let it bloom for 5–10 minutes before microwaving at 20-second intervals until dissolved.
Once set in the refrigerator for about 3 hours, break it into small pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Meat Mixture

Heat a frying pan over medium heat and melt 1 tsp of butter.
Add 100 g of finely diced onion and fry until softened and slightly golden.
Mix in 100 g of ground beef and cook until browned.

Step 3: Add Flavoring Ingredients

Pour in ½ tbsp mirin and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.
Stir well until most liquid evaporates; then let the mixture cool down completely.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs with 1 ½ tbsp whole milk.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

In a larger mixing bowl, add 150 g ground beef along with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Incorporate the wet panko mixture, egg yolk, tomato ketchup, sugar, nutmeg powder, and cooled meat mixture. Mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into equal portions—shaping them into oval discs works well.
Place patties on a tray covered with plastic wrap; refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare for Frying

Preheat cooking oil to 160 °C (320 °F).
Set up three containers: one with flour (85 g), one with whisked egg (1), and another with panko breadcrumbs (150 g).

Step 8: Coat the Patties

Dredge each patty in flour first; shake off excess.
Dip into whisked egg followed by an even layer of panko breadcrumbs. Press gently without squashing.

Step 9: Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness

Repeat coating patties again with egg and panko breadcrumbs.

Step 10: Fry the Patties

Carefully place breaded patties into hot oil. Fry for about two minutes on each side or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.

Step 11: Complete Cooking Process

After removing from oil, place patties on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Increase oil temperature to 180 °C (356 °F) before returning patties back into hot oil for another minute or two until crispy.

Step 12: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl or serving jug, mix together all sauce ingredients.

Step 13: Serve Your Menchi Katsu

Serve hot garnished with dried parsley alongside your homemade katsu sauce. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Menchi Katsu is more than just a delicious dish; it’s a complete experience. When serving this Japanese ground meat cutlet, there are several ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.

With Homemade Katsu Sauce

Tangy Flavor: Drizzle homemade katsu sauce over the cutlet for added zest.
Dipping Option: Serve the sauce on the side for dipping, allowing guests to control their flavor experience.

On a Bed of Rice

Hearty Meal: Place the menchi katsu on a bed of steamed rice to create a filling meal.
Flavor Absorption: The rice absorbs any juices from the cutlet, enhancing every bite.

Accompanied by Fresh Salad

Crisp Contrast: A simple green salad adds freshness that balances the richness of the katsu.
Light Dressing: Use a light vinaigrette to keep it refreshing without overpowering flavors.

With Pickled Vegetables

Japanese Tradition: Serve with pickled vegetables like tsukemono for an authentic touch.
Bite-Sized Crunch: The tanginess of pickles complements the savory cutlet perfectly.

How to Perfect Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Perfecting your menchi katsu involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

Bold Seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your meat mixture well; it enhances the overall flavor immensely.
Bold Panko Technique: Double-coating with panko breadcrumbs creates an extra crispy texture that elevates your cutlet.
Bold Temperature Check: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature before frying; too hot can burn, while too cool will make them soggy.
Bold Resting Time: Letting the patties rest in the fridge helps them hold together during frying, preventing them from falling apart.
Bold Serving Tip: Always serve menchi katsu hot and crispy for the best taste experience.

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

Pairing side dishes with menchi katsu can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful dish.

Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds umami and warmth, perfect for a comforting meal.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious crunch that balances out the richness of katsu.
Japanese Coleslaw: This crunchy slaw dressed in sesame dressing offers a refreshing contrast and adds color to your plate.
Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice packed with veggies can make your meal heartier and more satisfying.
Edamame Beans: Simple boiled edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a healthy snack or appetizer alongside menchi katsu.
Potato Salad: Creamy Japanese potato salad adds a comforting side that’s popular in Japanese cuisine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Menchi Katsu is a delightful dish, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Overmixing the meat – This can lead to tough patties. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
Skipping the chilling step – Not resting the patties in the fridge prevents them from holding their shape while frying. Always chill for at least 30 minutes.
Not properly coating with breadcrumbs – A sparse layer of panko won’t yield that crunchy exterior. Ensure each patty is generously coated.
Frying at incorrect temperatures – If the oil is too hot or cold, your menchi katsu may burn or remain greasy. Use a thermometer to maintain 160°C (320°F) initially, then increase as needed.
Using stale panko breadcrumbs – Stale breadcrumbs will not provide the desired crunch. Always use fresh panko for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked menchi katsu in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Layer parchment paper between patties to prevent sticking.

Freezing Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Wrap each cooled patty tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)

Oven – Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Place menchi katsu on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through, but this may not keep them crispy.
Stovetop – Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)?

Menchi Katsu is a Japanese dish made from ground meat, usually beef or pork, which is shaped into patties, breaded with panko, and deep-fried until golden brown.

Can I make Menchi Katsu ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare menchi katsu in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for later use. Just reheat before serving.

What can I serve with Menchi Katsu?

Menchi katsu pairs wonderfully with rice, shredded cabbage, or a simple salad. You can also enjoy it with tonkatsu sauce or your favorite dipping sauces.

How do I customize my Menchi Katsu?

Feel free to add different spices or vegetables into the meat mixture for added flavor. You might also try using different types of ground meat based on your preference.

Is Menchi Katsu suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Menchi katsu makes an excellent meal prep option as it stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Menchi Katsu is not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to various tastes. Its crunchy exterior and savory filling make it a hit among family and friends. Feel free to play around with ingredients or serve it alongside different sides to suit your preference. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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