When it comes to exploring the world of Japanese cuisine, one dish that often takes center stage is pork. Whether grilled, braised, or stir-fried, pork is a staple ingredient in many traditional Japanese recipes. In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 flavorful and savory Japanese pork recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
From classic dishes like Tonkatsu (Japanese Pork Cutlet) and Buta no Shogayaki (Ginger Pork), to heartwarming braises like Kakuni (Braised Pork Belly), these recipes showcase the versatility and richness of pork in Japanese cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore the world of Japanese cuisine, this collection of recipes is sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
In the following pages, we’ll be sharing some of Japan’s most beloved pork dishes, each with its own unique flavor profile and cooking technique. From comforting bowl dishes like Pork Donburi (Pork Rice Bowl) and Pork Sukiyaki, to savory soups like Pork Miso Soup, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
So grab a fork and let’s dive into the world of Japanese pork recipes!
Tonkatsu (Japanese Pork Cutlet)
A classic Japanese dish that’s both crispy and juicy, Tonkatsu is a must-try for any pork lover. This recipe yields a deliciously breaded and fried pork cutlet with a side of tangy tonkatsu sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tonkatsu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the breading station by placing the flour, panko breadcrumbs, and milk in separate dishes.
2. Dip each pork cutlet into the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the milk, letting any excess drip off.
3. Roll the cutlets in the panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded pork cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain the tonkatsu on paper towels and serve with steamed rice and your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Buta no Shogayaki (Ginger Pork)
This classic Japanese dish is a staple of any home cook’s repertoire, and for good reason – the combination of tender pork, savory ginger sauce, and sweet soy glaze is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork loin or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, and sugar to make the ginger sauce.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, grated ginger, and ginger sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Return the pork to the pan and stir to coat with the ginger sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kakuni (Braised Pork Belly)
This traditional Japanese dish is a hearty and flavorful delight, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. Kakuni’s tender pork belly is slow-cooked in a savory mixture of soy sauce, sake, and sugar, resulting in a rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly (skin removed)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork belly, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick.
3. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork Miso Soup
This hearty and comforting soup combines the rich flavors of pork, miso paste, and vegetables to create a satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth, miso paste, water, soy sauce, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pork is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Pork Gyoza
Savor the flavors of Japan with this classic pan-seared gyoza recipe filled with juicy pork and savory spices. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these crispy dumplings will transport your taste buds to Tokyo.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, grated carrot, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Pan-fry the gyoza in hot oil until crispy and golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Shabu-Shabu
Savor the rich flavors of Japanese-inspired pork hot pot with this simple and delicious recipe. Pork Shabu-Shabu is a popular dish that combines thinly sliced pork, vegetables, and savory broth for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or substitute with dry white wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 4 cups chicken or pork broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Noodles and vegetables of your choice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, combine soy sauce, sake, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add pork strips and cook until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Serve hot with noodles and your choice of vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Ramen with Soy Broth
Pork Ramen with Soy Broth Recipe
This hearty and comforting recipe combines tender pork slices, springy noodles, and a rich soy broth that’s perfect for a cozy night in. With its bold flavors and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 8 ounces ramen noodles
– Green onions and bean sprouts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork slices, soy sauce, sake, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the pork is tender.
2. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot, discarding solids.
3. Add water and sesame oil to the strained broth, and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions, then divide among bowls.
5. Slice cooked pork into thin strips and place on top of noodles. Ladle hot soy broth over the pork and garnish with green onions and bean sprouts if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Pork Donburi (Pork Rice Bowl)
Savor the simplicity of this classic Japanese dish, Pork Donburi, where tender pork and savory flavors come together with a comforting bowl of rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan or wok, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pork is tender.
4. Serve the pork over cooked white rice in a bowl. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Sukiyaki
Savor the rich flavors of Japan with this classic Pork Sukiyaki recipe, a harmonious blend of tender pork, savory soy sauce, and crunchy vegetables. This quick-cooking dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese cooking wine)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and snow peas; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. Pour mixture into skillet and bring to a boil.
6. Return pork to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork Negima Yakitori
A classic Japanese skewer recipe, Pork Negima Yakitori combines tender pork and savory green onions on a stick, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork loin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Yakitori skewers (10-12 inches long)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Add pork pieces and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Alternate pork and green onion slices on yakitori skewers.
4. Brush grill with oil to prevent sticking. Grill skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until pork is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pork Kimchi Nabe (Hot Pot)
This Korean-inspired hot pot recipe combines the spicy kick of kimchi with tender pork and a variety of vegetables, perfect for a cozy dinner gathering. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork loin or ribs, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups kimchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Assorted vegetables: bok choy, mushrooms, carrots, and potatoes
– Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, Gochujang, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the sliced pork and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Add the kimchi and vegetables to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve the hot pot with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Katsudon (Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl)
A classic Japanese comfort food, Pork Katsudon is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines crispy pork cutlets with savory onions and a rich tonkatsu sauce. This recipe serves 1-2 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork cutlets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– Tonkatsu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the pork cutlets by pounding them to an even thickness.
2. Dip each cutlet in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the pork for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, cook the sliced onion in the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil until caramelized.
5. Assemble the Katsudon by placing cooked rice on a plate, topping with a pork cutlet, and spooning tonkatsu sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Miso Nikomi Udon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork, miso, and savory udon noodles to create a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon white miso paste
– 2 cups dashi broth (or substitute with chicken broth)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat oil over medium-high. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and miso paste; stir until combined.
4. Pour in dashi broth, soy sauce, and sake (if using). Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked udon noodles with the pork-miso sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Pork and Daikon Nimono
Nimono is a popular Japanese cooking technique that involves slow-cooking ingredients in soy sauce-based broth to create tender, flavorful dishes. Pork and daikon (a type of Japanese white radish) nimono is a classic combination that pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium daikons, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 cup mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise pod
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, garlic, ginger, and star anise.
2. Add the pork and daikon slices; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Pork Chashu for Ramen
This classic Japanese-inspired recipe is a staple in many ramen shops and homes. By braising pork belly in a sweet soy-based sauce, you’ll achieve a tender, flavorful, and aromatic Chashu that will elevate your ramen game.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise pod
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, mirin, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add pork belly strips and bring to a simmer.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Shred the pork into bite-sized pieces and serve over your favorite ramen.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork and Eggplant Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry recipe that combines the richness of pork with the sweetness of eggplant, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the eggplant and onion, and cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the pork to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if desired).
8. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Shogayaki Don (Ginger Pork Rice Bowl)
This Japanese-inspired dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines tender pork, savory ginger sauce, and warm rice. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this mouthwatering bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork loin or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic. Add the pork strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the pork in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Serve the pork on top of cooked rice. Drizzle with remaining marinade sauce (if desired).
4. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork and Tofu Miso Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of pork and tofu with the savory depths of miso paste, creating a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 4 cups pork or chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in miso paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add broth, water, pork, and tofu. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of Japanese pork cuisine with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From classic dishes like Tonkatsu (Japanese Pork Cutlet) and Buta no Shogayaki (Ginger Pork) to hearty braises like Kakuni (Braised Pork Belly), there’s something for every taste. Savor the comforting warmth of Pork Miso Soup, or indulge in the savory delight of Japanese Pork Gyoza. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, these recipes will transport you to the heart of Japan’s pork-loving culture.
Leave a Reply