Sesame-Crusted Pork Cutlets With Cabbage

Step 1

Submerge the cabbage in a large bowl of ice water to crisp while you make the pork.

Step 2

Place the sesame seeds in a large resealable plastic bag and pound using a rolling pin or skillet until coarsely crushed (alternatively, you can use a mortar and pestle). Transfer to a lipped plate or shallow bowl.

Step 3

Working with one piece at a time, put the pork in another resealable plastic bag and pound using a rolling pin or skillet until it is 1/4-inch thick (don’t skimp on this step; it’s important that the pieces are thin). Transfer to a plate, salt lightly on both sides, then repeat until all pieces have been cooked.

Step 4

Dredge the pork cutlets fully in the crushed sesame seeds.

Step 5

In a large skillet over medium-high, heat 1/3 inch of oil until shimmering. Gently lay the cutlets in the pan, working in batches as necessary. Fry until golden brown on one side, 1 to 2 minutes, then flip and continue to cook until golden brown and cooked through, another 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and repeat until all pieces have been cooked.

Step 6

Drain and dry the cabbage thoroughly (a salad spinner works well here). Serve each cutlet with a pile of cabbage, a squeeze of lemon over everything and more lemon wedges on the side. Season with salt to taste and serve at once.