Donkkaseu
Korean Pork Cutlet
A popular Korean-Japanese fusion dish featuring crispy, golden-brown breaded pork cutlets served with a sweet and savory donkkaseu sauce and shredded cabbage. This is a beloved comfort food.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 pieces Pork loin chops(About 1/2 inch thick, boneless)
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
- 2 Eggs(Lightly beaten)
- 1.5 cups Panko breadcrumbs(More may be needed to ensure full coating)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
- 3-4 cups Vegetable oil or other neutral oil(For deep frying)
- 1/4 head Cabbage(Finely shredded, for serving)
- for serving Donkkaseu sauce(Store-bought or homemade)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the pork: Place each pork loin chop between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan, gently pound the pork to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This helps tenderize the meat and ensures even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Set up the breading station: Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, add the lightly beaten eggs. In the third, place the panko breadcrumbs. Ensure the panko is spread out evenly.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Bread the pork cutlets: Dredge each pork cutlet first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, press the cutlet firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure both sides are completely covered. Gently press the panko onto the pork to help it adhere.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Fry the cutlets: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower 1-2 breaded pork cutlets into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the cutlets are a deep golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Drain and serve: Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove the cooked cutlets from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. This helps maintain crispiness. Let them rest for a minute or two.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Serve immediately: Slice the donkkaseu into strips. Serve hot with a generous portion of finely shredded cabbage and a side of warm donkkaseu sauce for dipping.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an extra crispy coating, ensure the panko is fresh and press it firmly onto the pork.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the frying pot; fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve even browning.
- ✓The donkkaseu sauce is key to the flavor; use a good quality store-bought sauce or make your own for an authentic taste.
- ✓Serve with a simple side salad or rice for a complete meal.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Cheese Donkkaseu: Stuff the pork with mozzarella cheese before breading and frying.
- Chicken Donkkaseu: Substitute chicken breast or thigh for pork.
- Spicy Donkkaseu: Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the sauce for a spicy kick.