Indulge in the irresistible crunch and gooey cheese pull of our Crispy Korean Cheese Katsu! This recipe elevates the classic katsu experience with a delightful twist, combining the satisfying crispiness of a perfectly fried cutlet with the rich, melty goodness of Korean cheese. Forget greasy takeout – this air fryer recipe delivers all the flavor and texture you crave, with significantly less oil. We’re using a simple, yet flavorful panko breading that crisps up beautifully, creating the perfect canvas for that molten cheese center. The result? A truly unforgettable culinary experience that's surprisingly easy to achieve at home.
Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to create this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. This recipe provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to ensure your Korean Cheese Katsu turns out perfectly every time, from preparing the meat to achieving that golden-brown, crispy exterior. Let's dive into the deliciously simple process!
Tools Needed
- Meat tenderizer or thick bottom powder
- Parchment paper or plastic wrap
- Large skillet
- Air fryer
Ingredients
- Boneless pork loin: 1/2 inch thick
- Cheese: A large chunk, cut into 2 inches long, 1 inch wide pieces
- Salt: A pinch
- Black pepper: A pinch
- Panko breadcrumbs: 3 cups
- Cooking oil: 3 tablespoons
- Eggs: 3
- All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons
- Cabbage: Thinly sliced
- Mayonnaise: 1/2
- Ketchup: 1/2
- Tonkatsu sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling and Freeze
- Cut a large chunk of cheese into pieces about 2 inches long and 1 inch wide.
- Place a pork loin between two sheets of parchment paper and gently pound it with a meat tenderizer until it's about 1/2 inch thick (or butterfly a thicker cut).
- Season the flattened pork with salt and pepper. Place a cheese piece on the pork and roll it tightly like an egg roll. Repeat with the remaining pork and cheese.
- Wrap the rolled pork tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for 20-30 minutes to help maintain its shape during cooking.
Step 2. Bread the Katsu
- Heat cooking oil in a skillet and toast the panko breadcrumbs until golden brown.
- Whisk together eggs, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Dip the frozen pork rolls in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the toasted panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3. Air Fry the Katsu
- Preheat air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Air fry the breaded pork for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and the cheese is melted.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve the cheese katsu with rice, thinly sliced cabbage salad, and your choice of dipping sauce (e.g., tonkatsu sauce, ketchup, mayonnaise-ketchup mixture).
Read more: Gochujang Korean BBQ Rice Bowl: 15-Minute Recipe
Tips
- Using flour in the egg mixture helps the breadcrumbs adhere better.
- October is National Pork Month!
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a Korean cheese blend for a unique flavor. Just ensure it's a cheese that melts well.
2. What if my air fryer doesn't get crispy enough?
Make sure your cutlets are completely dry before breading. You can also increase the air frying time slightly or increase the temperature (always check your air fryer’s manual first!).
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the breaded cutlets ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Air fry them right before serving for optimal crispiness.
So there you have it – a deliciously crispy, cheesy, and satisfying Korean Cheese Katsu, made healthier and easier with your air fryer. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat, impressing family and friends alike. Enjoy the irresistible crunch and gooey cheese pull!