Tarekatsu Don is a unique twist on the classic katsudon, featuring crispy pork cutlets drizzled with a sweet and savory soy-based sauce, all served over a bowl of rice. Unlike traditional katsudon, it doesn’t include eggs, making it a simpler yet flavorful dish. This local specialty from Niigata has become a beloved comfort food, and if you’re curious about its origins and how it became a staple in Japanese cuisine, keep reading!
What is Tarekatsu don?
“Tarekatsu don” is a rice bowl featuring a thin, freshly fried pork cutlet coated in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce. Unlike traditional katsudon, it is not bound with egg. This dish is simple yet satisfying, consisting only of rice and pork cutlets, typically served with two or more cutlets atop the bowl. It is is a variation of katsudon (pork cutlet rice bowl) that originated in Niigata Prefecture, Japan.
History
Niigata, a historic port town that thrived during the Edo period with the Kitamae ships, is home to Furumachi, an area known for its traditional restaurants and vibrant entertainment district. Western cuisine took root early in Niigata, with Western-style eateries lining the stalls of Nishibori. Among them, a pioneering restaurant became the birthplace of Tare Katsudon in the early Showa period.
The dish is said to have originated when freshly fried cutlets, considered a modern delicacy at the time, were boldly dipped in soy sauce and served over rice. Its unique flavor and simplicity quickly gained popularity, spreading throughout Niigata City. As apprentices from the original restaurant opened their own establishments, Tare Katsudon became firmly established as Niigata-style katsudon. Today, it is cherished as a local specialty and soul food for the people of Niigata.
FAQ
- What is Tare Katsu Don?
-
Tare Katsu Don is a rice bowl dish of fried pork cutlets in sweet and spicy sauce over rice, but without egg.
- Where is Tare Katsu Don from?
-
Tare Katsu Don is from Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture. It’s said to have been invented by the local restaurant “Takase” and is now a Aizu specialty.
- What does the sauce for Tare Katsu Don taste like?
-
Tare Katsu Don sauce is a sweet and savory blend, with added sugar and sake, etc. The flavor intensity and sweetness varies, but it’s always delicious.
Tarekatsu don Recipe
| Ingredients for 4 persons | Measurements |
|---|---|
| Pork (your favorite cut) | 30g |
| Flour | 100g |
| Egg | 75g |
| Bread crumbs (fine) | 150g |
| Frying oil | 200g |
| Rice | 200g |
| For Seasoning A: | |
| Soy sauce | 80g |
| Mirin | 80g |
| Sake | 80g |
| Sugar | 30g |
| Kombu | 10g |
How to make Tarekatsu donburi?
Tenderize the pork slices with a rolling pin and beat the eggs. Coat each pork slice with flour, dip it into the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and kombu in a pot, then heat and simmer for about 1 minute.
Heat oil to 170-180°C and fry the pork for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Dip the fried cutlets in the sauce and place them on top of the rice to serve.
Restaurants
Tonkatsu Masachan Nuttari Main Store (とんかつ政ちゃん 沼垂本店)
Known as a famous Niigata Tare Katsu Don (sauce cutlet bowl) restaurant. They use high quality domestic pork, pursuing a tender and juicy texture. The secret sauce, which has been added since the establishment, has an excellent taste after about 60 years of aging. It is also a perfect accompaniment to Niigata-grown Koshihikari rice. The “Niigata Umememon Zanmai Set” allows you to fully enjoy the charm of Niigata, including Tare Katsu Don, Echigo Miso Miso Soup and local cuisine “Noppe”.
Niigata Katsudon Tarekatsu Kagurazaka Store
A specialty store where you can enjoy Niigata’s famous Tarekatsu Don in Tokyo. Using Koshihikari rice from Niigata Prefecture, they offer an authentic taste with crispy cutlets coated in a special sauce. The cutlets use carefully selected domestic pork, and they are also particular about the breadcrumbs. The sauce is characterized by a sweet and rich flavor that goes perfectly with rice. You can also enjoy Niigata’s local cuisine and sake, allowing you to experience Niigata’s food culture while in Tokyo.
Final Thoughts
Tarekatsu Don is not just a delicious dish but a taste of Niigata’s rich culinary tradition, offering a perfect balance of crispy pork and savory sauce over warm rice. If you ever find yourself in Japan, make sure to try this local favorite—you’ll experience a unique and comforting flavor that will stay with you long after your meal. Don’t miss the chance to savor Tarekatsu Don firsthand!
If you enjoy Tarekatsu Don, be sure to explore other Japanese comfort foods like Tonkatsu, Ebi Fry, or Chicken Katsu—each offering its own delicious take on crispy, breaded delights!
Comments