Breaded pork cutlet tonkatsu

1. 1

   For the tonkatsu sauce, put the sugar and vinegar in a saucepan and bring to the boil. Allow to cool and then add the rest of the ingredients and blend until smooth.

2. 2

   For the broth, preheat the oven to 200C/180C Fan/Gas 6. Heat the beef shank and oxtail with 2.25 litres/4 pints water in a pressure cooker. Once the pressure has risen, cook for 15 minutes over medium-high heat. Release the pressure and return the cooker to the stove, or transfer the broth to a bigger soup pot. Simmer for at least 30 more minutes over a medium heat.

3. 3

   While the beef cooks, spread the chicken back pieces and pork bones out on a baking tray. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until everything is well browned.

4. 4

   Once the shank and oxtail have finished simmering, remove them from the cooking liquid and set aside. Add the roasted chicken and pork bones to the cooking liquid along with 1.2 litres/2 pints water and a large pinch of salt. Add the pork back fat, if using, and bring the stock back to a simmer. Cook uncovered, with the pot steadily bubbling but not boiling, for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally.

5. 5

   Remove the chicken and pork and set aside. Strain the stock to remove any large bits of gristle, then return it to the pan. Season the broth, to taste, with soy sauce, sake, mirin, and more salt, if desired. Keep the broth hot.

6. 6

   For the breaded pork cutlet, heat a deep-fat fryer to 180C. (CAUTION: hot oil can be dangerous. Do not leave unattended.)

7. 7

   Put the flour, egg whites and breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Dust the pork cutlets in flour, dip in the egg whites and then coat in breadcrumbs. Deep fry the pork for 4-6 minutes, or until golden-brown and cooked through.

8. 8

   Meanwhile, boil the noodles in a saucepan of salted water and drain well.

9. 9

   Shred the meat from the reserved beef and oxtail. Divide the broth between 4 warmed ramen bowls and add the shredded meat. Add the noodles. Garnish with spring onions, cabbage, beansprouts and garlic.

10. 10

    Slice the pork cutlets and arrange on a serving board with the daikon, cabbage, tonkatsu sauce and ponzu sauce. Serve with the hot noodle broth.

1 serving ≈ 400 g

Nutrition values are estimates. - means data is unavailable.