5 Delicious Side Dishes To Pair With Pork Tonkatsu

One of the best things about pork tonkatsu is that it goes well with so many different dishes.

Whether you’re looking for a simple side or a more robust one, there’s bound to be a perfect pairing for your pork tonkatsu.

Here are some of our favorite dishes to serve with this Japanese classic.

Read on to learn more!

What is pork tonkatsu?

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Pork tonkatsu is a famous Japanese dish that is simply made with pork filet (normally pork loin or tenderloin) that is breaded and fried until golden and crispy.

The term tonkatsu is derived from two phases “ton” in Japanese meaning pig, and “katsu” is the shortened version of katsuretsu referring to cutlet in English.

Unlike other frying recipes in American cuisine that often call for cornmeal and breadcrumbs for coating meat, Japanese chefs use panko.

Panko gives their food a lighter and crunchier crust when fried.

What to consider when choosing a side dish to serve with pork tonkatsu?

Pork tonkatsu can be served with a variety of side dishes, but some are more popular than others.

Here are some key things you should consider when choosing the best accompaniment for pork tonkatsu:

It is better to serve pork tonkatsu with a traditional Japanese side

Pork tonkatsu is a traditional Japanese dish that has been there for centuries.

It is best to accompany this dish with another Japanese side to complete the flavor.

Japanese dishes are often made from high-quality ingredients and possess a special umami taste.

Therefore, you will be treated with delicious and nutritious dishes at the same time.

But it doesn’t mean that a Western dish doesn’t work in this case.

You totally can try something new by serving pork tonkatsu with a classic or modern American recipe.

Choose the texture of the side dish per your preference

Another thing is that pork tonkatsu can be paired with different textures, from starchy and filling to a crunchy and light or a liquid side dish.

All can help complement the main course in their own ways, but they are all delicious and hearty.

5 best side dishes to serve with pork tonkatsu

Below is the list of the five best side dishes to serve with pork tonkatsu:

1.     White rice

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White rice is one of the most traditional and popular in Asian cuisine.

This grain is often cooked with water until it is fully cooked and has a soft texture.

This filling and affordable side dish goes perfectly with many savory main dishes thanks to its mild flavor and starchy texture.

Plus, you can always make sure that no one will leave your party with a hungry tummy.

2.     Shredded raw cabbage

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Another classic side dish that is traditionally served with pork tonkatsu is shredded raw cabbage.

Normally, the Japanese use green or white cabbage, but you can also use red cabbage.

The crunchy texture and refreshing flavor of raw cabbage will help offset the savory and greasy fried pork.

Moreover, the addition of vegetables to your meal will make you feel less guilty when eating fried food that is quite high in fat.

3.     Miso soup

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Miso soup is another Japanese staple, and it also works great on the side of pork tonkatsu.

It is a light and healthy soup that is often made from dashi stock, miso paste (fermented soybeans), and other ingredients like silken tofu and dried kelp.

Miso soup will be a perfect winter option because it is best when served hot.

4.     Tonkatsu sauce

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Pork tonkatsu is also commonly served with tonkatsu sauce.

This is a sauce that is made with Japanese sweet wine, brown sugar, dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to result in a dark brown and flavorful dipping sauce for both meat-based and vegan dishes.

You can serve this sauce as a dip, or drizzle it over your pork tonkatsu so that you can enjoy this delicious combination without any fuss.

5.     Steamed broccoli

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A vegetable side dish is never bad to accompany a meat-based main.

Steamed broccoli is what you should make to serve with pork tonkatsu in this case.

Broccoli is rich in nutrients and it also has a good flavor that can balance the savory taste of fried pork.

Moreover, the contrast in the color of two dishes on the table will make your meal look more attractive.

The bottom line

There are good reasons why pork tonkatsu is a favorite Japanese dish.

But this dish will be even more delicious if you serve it with a good side.

With our five aforementioned suggestions, hopefully, you will never get frustrated the next time choosing a side dish for pork tonkatsu. 

Good luck and enjoy your meal!