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Tonkatsu Bento

A comforting and delicious Tonkatsu Bento that brings a taste of Japan to your lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Pork Loin (or Pork Tenderloin)
  • Salt and Pepper
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 Egg (beaten)
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable Oil (for frying)
  • 2 cups Cabbage (finely shredded)
  • 1 cup Rice (white or brown)
  • 1/4 cup Tonkatsu Sauce

Instructions

  1. Prep the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork loin, ensuring it’s about 1-inch thick. Season with salt and pepper and let rest for 10 minutes.
  2. Set Up Dredging Station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten egg in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third.
  3. Coat the Pork: Dip each piece in flour, then egg, and finally into the panko until coated.
  4. Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  5. Fry the Tonkatsu: Fry each breaded pork piece for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  6. Drain & Slice: Place cooked Tonkatsu on paper towels to absorb excess oil, then let rest before slicing.
  7. Cook the Rice: Prepare rice according to package instructions.
  8. Assemble the Bento Box: Layer rice, sliced Tonkatsu, and shredded cabbage in a bento box, and drizzle with Tonkatsu sauce.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Add sesame seeds and a slice of lemon. Enjoy!

Notes

For a vegan version, replace pork with eggplant or tofu and use a flax egg.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tonkatsu, Bento, Japanese lunch, comfort food, fried pork