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Sweet and Savory Pork Tsukune with Mayo

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These Japanese-style pork tsukune patties are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a sweet-savory glaze. Topped with a touch of creamy Kewpie mayo and served with fresh veggies, they’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or part of a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Tsukune Patties:
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Glaze:
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tbsp sake (optional)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • Topping:
  • Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie preferred)
  • Shredded cabbage & cherry tomatoes (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix ground pork, egg, panko breadcrumbs, milk, green onions, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper until sticky and well combined.
  2. Wet your hands and shape the mixture into small round patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook the patties for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked through.
  4. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), and sugar. Pour the glaze into the skillet with the patties.
  5. Simmer the patties in the glaze until the sauce thickens and coats them well.
  6. Arrange tsukune on a serving plate. Top each with a small dollop of Japanese mayonnaise.
  7. Serve with shredded cabbage and cherry tomatoes on the side.

Notes

  • Delicious as an appetizer, party snack, or served with steamed rice for a full meal.
  • Top with shichimi togarashi for a spicy kick.
  • You can substitute ground chicken for pork if preferred.
  • Kewpie mayo is preferred for its rich umami flavor, but regular mayo works in a pinch.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/sweet-and-savory-pork-tsukune-with-mayo/