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The preparation:
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Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
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If you want to use fillings like cheese or shiso leaves, simply place them between two slices of ham and make a small "sandwich".
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Lightly coat the ham (or the filled ham sandwich) with flour, dip it into the egg, and then roll it in panko. Press the breadcrumbs lightly to ensure they adhere well.
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Add about 200 ml of oil to a pan and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the ham cutlets until they are nicely golden brown on both sides. Alternatively, you can preheat the oven to 200°C and bake the cutlets for 15–20 minutes. Turn them once halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
Table of contents:
Summary
Hamu Katsu, or ハムカツ, is a beloved Japanese comfort food that emerged in post-World War II Japan as an affordable alternative to pork, using thinly sliced, breaded, and fried ham instead. This dish combines the crispy texture of its golden breadcrumb coating with a savory flavor, making it a staple in izakayas and delicatessens across the country. Hamu Katsu can be customized with various fillings, such as cheese or shiso leaves, and is often served on skewers in the vibrant street food scenes, particularly in the Kansai region. Pairing it with traditional sauces like Worcestershire or tonkatsu, and fresh sides like cabbage, adds to its appeal. While it provides nostalgic comfort to many, healthier versions exist, including baked options and using whole grain breadcrumbs, enhancing the dish's nutritional value. The charm of Hamu Katsu lies in its simplicity, making it a convenient choice for busy days and a favorite among both children and adults.The History of Ham Katsu
Ham Katsu is a popular Japanese comfort food that originated in Japan after World War II. At that time, pork was expensive and scarce, making processed meats like ham a popular and affordable alternative. Thinly sliced ham, wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating and fried to a golden brown, provided a filling and easy-to-prepare meal that quickly gained popularity.
Japan's love for fried foods began with the introduction of tempura by the Portuguese in the 16th century and was further developed with the rise of tonkatsu (pork cutlet) during the Meiji era. Ham Katsu emerged from this culinary evolution and has since become a staple in izakayas (Japanese pubs) and delicatessens across the country.
Variations of Ham Katsu
While Ham Katsu is a simple dish, it offers various flavors when experimenting with fillings. Adding cheese brings a creamy richness, and shiso leaves provide a refreshing aroma. Thicker slices of ham increase the heft of the dish, and mixing spices or sesame seeds into the breadcrumbs adds a pleasant variation.
In certain regions, Ham Katsu is served on skewers, which is especially popular in the vibrant street food scene of Kansai. At home, you can customize your Ham Katsu by altering the texture of the breadcrumbs or incorporating additional ingredients, making it a versatile dish that adapts to personal preferences.
Enjoying Various Sauces and Dips
Ham Katsu pairs wonderfully with classic sauces like Worcestershire sauce or tonkatsu sauce. For a creamy variation, try Aurora sauce—a mixture of mayonnaise and ketchup. If you like it spicy, you can serve it with mustard or chili sauce to intensify the flavor profile.
Delicious Serving Suggestions
Serving Ham Katsu with finely sliced cabbage or fresh vegetables balances the richness of the fried ham. A squeeze of lemon adds a fresh note, and side dishes like potato salad or pickles complement the meal. For a traditional Japanese set meal, you can serve Ham Katsu with steamed rice, miso soup, and a side of ohitashi (blanched greens) to create a balanced culinary experience.
Why Ham Katsu is Loved
The charm of Ham Katsu lies in its simplicity and accessibility. It is easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, making it a practical option for hectic days. The crispy texture and savory flavor appeal to both children and adults, and it is ideal for lunchboxes and picnics.
In local shopping streets, Ham Katsu is often sold alongside croquettes in butcher shops and serves many as a nostalgic comfort food. In izakayas, it is a popular side dish to drinks, appreciated for its affordability and satisfying taste.
Healthier Ways to Enjoy Ham Katsu
For a healthier alternative, you can bake Ham Katsu instead of frying it. Mix a small amount of olive oil with the breadcrumbs before brushing the ham with it, then bake at 200°C for 15–20 minutes until crispy. This method reduces oil consumption while still providing a delicious crunch.
Using whole grain or bran breadcrumbs increases the fiber content and enhances the nutritional value of the dish. Choosing low-fat or plant-based ham alternatives makes it even healthier. Add shiso or other vegetables as fillings and serve with a fresh salad to balance the meal nutritionally.
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