When it comes to Japanese cuisine, pork is a staple ingredient that plays a significant role in many popular dishes. From tonkatsu (Japanese-style breaded and fried cutlet) to buta no kakuni (braised pork belly), there’s a world of flavor waiting to be explored. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouthwatering Japanese pork recipes that are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of ramen or a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
From classic dishes like tonkatsu and shogayaki (ginger pork) to creative twists like pork miso soup with vegetables, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, let’s get cooking and explore the wonderful world of Japanese pork!
Tonkatsu (Japanese Pork Cutlet)
Tonkatsu, a popular Japanese dish, is a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet that’s both crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This recipe yields a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tonkatsu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Cut the pork cutlets into desired shapes.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each pork cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip the floured pork cutlet in the beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the breaded pork cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve with Tonkatsu sauce.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total (including frying time).
Buta no Kakuni (Braised Pork Belly)
A classic Japanese comfort dish, Buta no Kakuni is a slow-cooked pork belly that falls-apart tender and melts-in-your-mouth rich. This recipe yields a flavorful and aromatic braise that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake
– 1/4 cup mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the pork belly and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Cover the saucepan with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Shogayaki (Ginger Pork)
A classic Japanese dish that combines the savory flavors of pork with the spicy warmth of ginger, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savory notes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork loin or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, sugar, and grated ginger.
2. Add the pork strips to the marinade, coating them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the pork for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and caramelized.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Miso Soup with Vegetables
This comforting and savory soup combines the rich flavors of pork, miso paste, and vegetables to create a delightful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as mushrooms, carrots, and green beans)
– 2 cups dashi broth (or chicken broth)
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and dashi broth; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in miso paste and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Japanese Pork Ramen
Warm up with a steaming bowl of Japanese Pork Ramen, featuring tender pork slices and rich tonkotsu broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Noodles of your choice (e.g., ramen or udon)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add vegetable oil, garlic, and pork slices. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the pork is cooked through.
4. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the ramen by placing cooked noodles in a bowl, then adding sliced pork, green onions, and hot broth.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Gyoza (Dumplings)
In this recipe, we’ll make a delicious and authentic Japanese dish by wrapping pork and vegetable fillings inside thin dumpling wrappers. With a crispy pan-frying and dipping in a savory soy sauce-based sauce, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gyoza wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a gyoza wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork filling in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point, making sure to seal the filling inside.
4. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat with about 1 tablespoon of oil. When hot, add the gyoza and pan-fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Serve the gyoza hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Pork Shumai (Steamed Dumplings)
Pork Shumai (Steamed Dumplings) Recipe
These tender and juicy dumplings are a classic Cantonese dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delicious pork-filled treats in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and warm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
2. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
3. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
4. Place 1-2 teaspoons of pork filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press edges together to seal.
6. Steam the dumplings for 8-10 minutes or pan-fry until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (steaming) or 3-4 minutes per side (pan-frying)
Pork Donburi (Pork Rice Bowl)
This classic Japanese dish is a simple yet satisfying meal that combines tender pork, savory sauce, and fluffy rice. Pork Donburi is a popular comfort food in Japan, often served at home or in casual eateries.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
– 2 tbsp mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the pork strips over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, and ginger.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked pork and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Serve the pork over a bed of hot Japanese rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Sukiyaki
Savor the flavors of Japan with this classic Pork Sukiyaki recipe, a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork loin or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups dashi broth (or chicken broth)
– 1/4 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
– Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add onions and cook until they start to caramelize, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add dashi broth and mushrooms; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork Yakitori (Grilled Skewers)
Pork Yakitori Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Japanese Street Food
Yakitori is a popular Japanese street food made from grilled chicken skewers, but we’re giving it a twist by using pork instead. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, mirin, rice vinegar, sugar, ginger, and black pepper.
2. Add the pork cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated pork onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Nikujaga (Meat and Potato Stew)
A hearty and comforting Japanese stew that combines tender pork, potatoes, and vegetables in a rich soy-based broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups dashi broth (or chicken or beef broth as substitute)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, dashi broth, soy sauce, and sake (if using) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the cooked pork back into the pot and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Pork Okonomiyaki (Savory Pancake)
Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese savory pancake from the Hiroshima region, typically filled with pork, vegetables, and a sweet and savory sauce. This recipe brings this flavorful treat to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated daikon radish
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Okonomiyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and water until smooth.
2. Add daikon radish, green onions, soy sauce, sake, and vegetable oil. Mix well.
3. Add ground pork and mix until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or okonomiyaki grill over medium-high heat.
5. Pour in batter and cook for 3-4 minutes, until edges start to set.
6. Flip pancake and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until cooked through.
7. Serve with okonomiyaki sauce, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of bonito flakes (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pork Udon Stir-Fry
A flavorful and savory stir-fry dish that combines tender pork, springy udon noodles, and crunchy vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory soy-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound pork loin or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 200g udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add mixed vegetables and garlic; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked pork back into the wok, along with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for another minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the pork and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Teriyaki
A classic Japanese-inspired dish that’s sweet, savory, and utterly delicious. This Pork Teriyaki recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork tenderloin or pork loin, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Chashu (Braised Pork for Ramen)
A classic Japanese dish, Pork Chashu is a must-have component for authentic ramen bowls. This slow-cooked pork belly is fall-apart tender and infused with a rich, savory flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake
– 1/4 cup mirin
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork belly, soy sauce, sake, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil.
3. Add garlic and ginger; mix well.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing into thin strips.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork Kimchi Nabe (Hot Pot)
A hearty and flavorful Korean-inspired hot pot recipe that combines the richness of pork with the spiciness of kimchi. This comforting dish is perfect for a cold winter night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork bones or pork loin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups dashi broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Noodles or vegetables of your choice for dipping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped kimchi, onion, and garlic. Cook until kimchi is softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Pour in dashi broth and add soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until pork is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with noodles or vegetables of your choice for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Miso Stir-Fry
Pork Miso Stir-Fry Recipe: A savory and umami-packed dish that combines tender pork with the rich flavors of miso paste, soy sauce, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork loin or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 tsp miso paste
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the pork strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside.
5. Add the mixed bell peppers and snow peas to the pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes, until tender.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
7. Pour the miso mixture into the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
8. Return the pork to the pan and cook for an additional minute, until coated in the miso glaze.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Daikon Simmer
This comforting simmer is a perfect blend of tender pork and sweet daikon radish, slow-cooked to perfection in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or ribs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium daikons (about 2 inches in diameter), peeled and sliced into thin wedges
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork, daikon, soy sauce, sake, rice vinegar, and ginger.
2. Add the water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey through Japan with these 18 mouth-watering pork recipes! From tonkatsu (Japanese pork cutlet) and buta no kakuni (braised pork belly), to shogayaki (ginger pork) and many more, this collection has something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for comfort food like pork miso soup or a quick weeknight meal like pork ramen, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. With dishes ranging from savory pancakes to steamed dumplings, there’s no excuse not to try some Japanese-inspired cooking!
