- What kind of ham should I buy?
- Look for high-quality cooked ham and ask for thick slices (0.25-0.5 inch). Thin deli ham will just dry out.
Ham Katsu (Crispy Fried Ham Cutlets)
'Hamukatsu' (Ham Katsu) is a beloved budget-friendly favorite in Japanese delis and homes. Originating in the post-war era when meat was expensive, this dish elevates a thick slice of quality ham with a crispy Panko crust. It delivers a salty, smoky, crunchy experience that is quicker to make than pork cutlets but just as satisfying.
Ingredients
4
slices
Thick-cut Cooked Ham (Ham Steaks)
2
cups
Panko Breadcrumbs
1
large
Egg
0.5
cup
All-Purpose Flour
0.25
head
Cabbage (shredded)
1.5
cups
Vegetable Oil (for frying)
4
tbsp
Tonkatsu Sauce
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Frying pan
- Paper towels
Allergen Information
Wheat
Egg
Instructions
1
✓
Pat the ham slices dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks.
Tip: Breading slides right off moist surfaces.
2
✓
Prepare the breading station: flour, beaten egg, Panko crumbs. Bread the ham steaks in this order.
Tip: Since the ham is already cooked, you only need to focus on getting the crust crispy.
3
✓
Heat oil to 350°F (180°C) - slightly hotter than for raw meat. Fry the ham until golden brown (approx. 1-2 minutes per side).
Tip: A quick fry prevents the ham from drying out while ensuring a crunchy crust.
4
✓
Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Tip: Removing excess oil keeps the dish light.
5
✓
Serve with fresh cabbage and Tonkatsu sauce.
Tip: Ham is salty, so no extra salt is needed!
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 4 slices Thick-cut Cooked Ham (Ham Steaks)
- 2 cups Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 large Egg
- 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 0.25 head Cabbage (shredded)
- 1.5 cups Vegetable Oil (for frying)
- 4 tbsp Tonkatsu Sauce