By @saucesanddips | Savory-Sweet Sauce for Breaded Cutlets and Fried Snacks
Tonkatsu Sauce is a thick, tangy-sweet Japanese condiment with umami depth—think a fruity take on Worcestershire. It’s perfect over pork or chicken katsu, croquettes, shrimp fry, and sandwiches, and doubles as a dip for fries.
Ingredients (Makes about 3/4 cup)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (Japanese style if available)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin (or 2 teaspoons rice vinegar + 1/2 teaspoon sugar)
- 2 teaspoons sugar or honey (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional, for umami)
- 1 tablespoon very finely grated apple or pear (optional, classic fruitiness)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of ground ginger
- Small pinch of salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Whisk
In a bowl, whisk together ketchup, Worcestershire, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar until smooth.
2. Add Depth
Stir in oyster sauce (if using), grated apple or pear, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger, and a small pinch of salt.
3. Rest
Let the sauce sit for 10–15 minutes to meld. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity.
4. Store
Transfer to a jar. Refrigerate up to 2 weeks; stir before using.
Serving Ideas
- Spoon over pork or chicken katsu, ebi fry, or korokke (potato croquettes)
- Spread on katsu sando or burgers
- Use as a dip for fries, onion rings, and fried tofu
Tips from @saucesanddips
- Japanese Worcestershire (like Bull-Dog style) gives the most authentic flavor
- For a thicker glaze, warm gently in a pan to reduce slightly
- Make it gluten-free with tamari and a gluten-free Worcestershire substitute
Tag your recreations with #saucesanddips and follow @saucesanddips for more regional classics.
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