Traditional Kushikatsu

2022-11-06

By Ramen Master

Japanese Cuisine

Main Course

3 Easy Ways to Make Perfect Kushikatsu: Instant Pot, Induction Cooker, and Air Fryer Tips

How to Use Your Instant Pot for Smooth Kushikatsu Batter Without Lumps

Use the Instant Pot to quickly cook meat like pork or chicken before skewering. The pressure cooking function will ensure tender, juicy meat without the long wait, making your kushikatsu extra flavorful.

Master Oil Temperature for Crispy Kushikatsu with an Induction Cooker

Achieve a perfectly crispy exterior by controlling the oil temperature precisely with your induction cooker. Set it to medium-high heat (around 350°F or 175°C) for the ideal frying temperature for kushikatsu, ensuring a golden-brown crust.

How to Make Healthier Kushikatsu in an Air Fryer with Crispy Results

Use the air fryer to cook kushikatsu skewers with less oil, while still achieving that crisp crunch. Preheat to 400°F (200°C), and cook the skewers for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.

Tips and Suggestions on Kushikatsu

Consistency of the Batter

The batter should be thick enough to coat the ingredients, but not so thick that it becomes clumpy. A mixture of flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs creates the perfect crispy texture. Use cold water or sparkling water to lighten the batter and make it extra crispy.

Selection of Ingredients

Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients such as pork, shrimp, and vegetables like sweet potato, onion, and asparagus. Cut them into uniform sizes so they cook evenly when deep-fried.

Heat of the Oil

Ensure the oil temperature is between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too cool, the batter will soak up too much oil and become soggy. If it’s too hot, the batter will burn before the ingredients cook through.

Handling the Skewers

Insert the ingredients securely onto the skewers before battering them. This will help to hold them together during frying and make them easier to dip and turn in the oil.

Temperature Control

Maintain a consistent frying temperature throughout the cooking process. Don’t overcrowd the frying pan, as this will cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy kushikatsu.

Serve Immediately

After frying, allow the kushikatsu to rest on a rack to drain any excess oil. Serve them immediately while hot and crispy. Pair with tonkatsu sauce for an authentic experience.

Classic Kushikatsu Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8-10 bamboo skewers
  • Flour, egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs for coating
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Salt and pepper
  • Tonkatsu sauce for dipping

Instructions

  1. Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Season the pork cubes with salt and pepper.
  3. Thread the pork cubes onto the bamboo skewers.
  4. Dip the pork skewers in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip them in the egg wash, followed by the panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is heated, place the skewers in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
  6. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
  7. Serve hot with tonkatsu sauce for dipping.
  8. Enjoy!

Cooking Time

Preparation Time 20 min

Cook Time 30 min

Total time 50 min

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 480
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Protein: 42 g

Regional Variations for Kushikatsu

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