Katsu Sauce
Making your own katsu sauce is super easy and adds so much flavor to your favorite fried dishes like chicken katsu or tonkatsu! With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a tasty, tangy sauce that’s perfect for dipping or drizzling. It takes just minutes to whip up, and it makes any katsu dish extra special.
And the best part? This katsu sauce isn’t just for fried dishes! You can use it on so many other things. Keep reading to discover all the delicious possibilities…
What is Tonkatsu (Katsu) Sauce?
Tonkatsu sauce, often referred to as katsu sauce, is a popular Japanese condiment traditionally served with tonkatsu (breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet) and other fried dishes like chicken katsu, or korokke (croquettes). It’s a thick, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce that enhances the flavor of crispy fried foods.
You Just Need 4 Ingredients!
Please scroll ⬇️ to the recipe card for the full ingredient amounts and instructions.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds tanginess, depth, and a slightly fermented umami flavor; it’s key to replicating the authentic taste of katsu sauce. For substitutions, use soy sauce mixed with a touch of vinegar and a pinch of sugar, or tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Sugar: Balances the tangy and savory flavors of the sauce with sweetness, making it more palatable. Brown sugar or honey can be used as alternatives for a richer or more natural sweetness.
- Ketchup: Provides a sweet and tangy tomato base, along with thickness. Substitute with tomato paste mixed with a little vinegar and sugar if ketchup isn’t available.
- Oyster Sauce: Enhances the umami profile and adds a subtle depth to the sauce. Use an oyster sauce substitute or mushroom sauce for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Tips for Homemade Tonkatsu Sauce
Adjust the sugar and vinegar levels to your taste. If you like a sweeter sauce, add a little more sugar, and for more tang, increase the vinegar or Worcestershire sauce.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought
Store-bought Tonkatsu sauce, such as Bulldog brand, is widely available and convenient. However, you can also make it at home with a simple mix using the recipe below.
Recipes Using Katsu Sauce
While it’s most commonly paired with tonkatsu, this versatile sauce is also used for:
- Chicken katsu: Breaded and fried chicken cutlets.
- Ebi fry: Breaded and fried shrimp.
- Korokke (croquettes): Fried patties made with mashed potatoes or ground meat.
- Okonomiyaki: Savory Japanese pancakes.
- Takoyaki: Octopus-filled batter balls.
Storage Tips
To store homemade katsu sauce, transfer the sauce to a clean, airtight container, such as a glass jar or plastic bottle. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air from affecting the flavor.
Store the katsu sauce in the refrigerator. It should last for about 1 to 2 weeks when kept chilled.
RECIPE
Simple 4-Ingredient Katsu Sauce
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the Worcestershire sauce, sugar, ketchup, and oyster sauce.
- Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more sugar or Worcestershire sauce, if needed.
- Transfer the sauce to a jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
