Tonkatsu sauce
8 servings
30 minutes
Tonkatsu sauce is one of the symbols of Japanese cuisine, created to accompany crispy tonkatsu cutlets. Its flavor is a harmony of sweetness, tanginess, and mild bitterness from tomato paste, soy sauce, sake, and rice vinegar. The delicate spice of ginger and garlic adds depth while sugar balances the notes. The sauce's history dates back to the Meiji era when Japan adapted Western culinary traditions to create unique interpretations. This thick, velvety sauce is used not only for tonkatsu but also for other dishes: from omurice to French fries, adding richness and expressiveness. Its preparation is a slow reduction process that allows flavors to merge into a perfect symphony. Tonkatsu sauce is not just an accompaniment but the final chord of Japanese gastronomic melody.
1
Mix all the ingredients in a small pot.
- Tomato paste: 5 tablespoon
- Soy sauce: 0.5 glass
- Sake: 0.5 glass
- Grated ginger: 3 teaspoons
- Garlic: 10 g
- Sugar: 0.3 glass
- Rice vinegar: 0.3 glass
2
Set to medium heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for 25 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly (like fruit jelly). During cooking, remove any foam that forms on the surface.
