Retro Ham Katsu Recipe: Crispy Japanese Fried Ham Cutlets

What is Ham Katsu?

Ham Katsu is a classic Japanese dish made by breading and deep-frying slices of ham. It’s a nostalgic favorite that once reigned as a popular side dish in Japanese households and butcher shops. The combination of the salty ham and the crispy, golden-brown batter is simply irresistible—it pairs perfectly with steamed rice or a cold glass of beer.

While the traditional “retro” style uses thin pressed ham, a more modern “gorgeous” version using 1cm-thick loin ham or ham sandwiched with melting cheese is also trending. Whatever your preference, it’s best enjoyed fresh and hot with a generous drizzle of Worcestershire sauce!

Nutritionist’s Note📒: How is Ham Classified?

In Japan, the definition of “ham” has evolved over time:

Pressed Ham: Dominant in Japan until the 1970s. It’s a processed product made by kneading pieces of pork, beef, or even mutton with binders like starch and spices. It has a unique, firm texture that defines “old-fashioned” Ham Katsu.
Aged Ham (JAS Standard): This category includes the now-mainstream Loin Ham, as well as Shoulder Ham and Boneless Ham. These are made from high-quality whole cuts of meat.

Ingredients (3 Pieces); Ham Katsu

Ham: 90g (6 slices of loin ham or pressed ham)
Breading Station:
- Wheat flour: 25g
- Egg: 50g (1 large egg)
- Water: 30g
- Bread crumbs (Panko): 40g
Cooking Oil: Moderate amount for frying

Ham Katsu Cooking Instructions

Prep the Ham: Stack 2 or 3 slices of ham together. (Adjust the thickness to your liking!)
Make the Batter: In a bowl, mix the flour and water first, then add the beaten egg and whisk well until there are no lumps. Make sure to follow this mixing order to ensure a smooth batter.
Coat with Panko: Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly across a tray. Dip the stacked ham into the batter, then place it onto the panko. Sprinkle more panko over the top until the entire ham cutlet is completely covered.
- 💡 Pro-Tip: The most common mistake when making ham cutlets is the breading sliding off because it didn’t adhere properly. Once you’ve covered it in panko, don’t touch it! Place the tray straight into the refrigerator and let it sit for about 20 minutes. This extra step helps the coating stick beautifully and prevents it from peeling off while frying!
Fry: Heat the oil to 170°C (340°F). Hold the ham gently by the edge and slide it carefully into the oil. Fry until it turns a beautiful golden brown.
Finish: Drain the excess oil well, and serve while they are still perfectly crispy!

Ham Katsu Nutrition Facts (Per Recipe)

Calculated by a Registered Dietitian, these figures accounts for precise oil absorption rates (3% for flour, 8% for egg, 15% for panko, and 15% for deep-frying oil).

Nutrients	Amount
Calories	377 kcal
Protein	19.5 g
Fat	27.7 g
Carbohydrates	13.5 g
Salt Equivalent	2.3 g

✨Looking for more crispy favorites?

Don’t miss our authentic Fried pork loin (Tonkatsu) recipe!

📖Read the Japanese version of this article here! [【昭和レトロ】薄切りハムカツの黄金レシピ｜サクサク衣を作るプロのコツ]　　

naokoan

Hi, I’m Naoko! I am a licensed Registered Dietitian in Japan, currently working in a hospital setting. My daily mission is to provide nutritious, healing meals to patients, ensuring that every dish supports their health and brings a smile to their face. My recipes are more than just cooking guides—they are built on scientific nutritional balance and clinical experience. Why I provide ingredients in grams (g): You might notice that all my recipes use precise gram measurements. This is because, as a dietitian, I believe that accuracy is the key to true health management. Whether you are tracking calories, managing salt intake, or simply want to recreate the exact flavor of a professional hospital kitchen, these measurements ensure your success and well-being. My Specialty: I specialize in high-pressure cooking and oven recipes that save time without sacrificing nutrition. My goal is to introduce the world to “Real Japanese Home Cooking”—dishes that are simple, budget-friendly, and body-friendly. I’m thrilled to share the wisdom of Japanese nutrition with you. Let’s cook our way to a healthier life!