Rediscovering the Charm and Taste of Big Katsu: The King of Japanese Dagashi

Is Big Katsu Really Made from Pork? My Childhood Misconception Revealed

From my childhood up until my middle school years, I genuinely believed that the inside of Big Katsu was made from real pork. The texture of the coating, the flavor of the sauce, and the overall appearance all convinced me that I was enjoying a true pork cutlet. I even wondered, “How can they sell this so cheaply?” Imagine my surprise when I found out it was actually made from fish paste!

Even knowing the truth, Big Katsu’s appeal remains unchanged. The rich original sauce combined with the crispy coating creates a harmony that has captivated my taste buds from childhood to adulthood. To this day, the taste of Big Katsu is so firmly ingrained in my mind that I consider it the quintessential “Katsu” flavor, even more so than authentic pork or filet cutlets.

The Size Has Shrunk, But the Flavor Remains the Same!

When I used to eat Big Katsu as a kid, it was much larger than it is now. The satisfaction of biting into a “big” cutlet was unparalleled. While the current size may be smaller, the flavor continues to delight and satisfy just as it always has.

According to Suguru Shokuhin’s official product information, Big Katsu is made using a fish paste sheet with their unique sauce mixed into the breaded coating. The balance between the crispy coating and the soft inside perfectly replicates the texture of a fried cutlet, offering a unique flavor that can’t be found elsewhere. With a nutritional profile that includes 68kcal per piece, 2.1g of protein, 2.6g of fat, 8.9g of carbohydrates, and 0.7g of salt, it’s just the right snack to enjoy any time of day.

Why Fans Can’t Get Enough of Big Katsu

Big Katsu is beloved not only as a snack for kids but also as a perfect accompaniment to drinks for adults. Here are some highlights from real user reviews that showcase the appeal of Big Katsu:

• More than Just a Dagashi Snack
  Despite being made from fish paste, Big Katsu’s rich sauce and crunchy coating give it a deliciousness that rivals real tonkatsu (pork cutlet). It’s an ideal snack for when you’re feeling a bit peckish, satisfying people of all ages.

• A Perfect Pairing for Alcohol
  Its slightly spicy flavor pairs perfectly with beer and other alcoholic beverages. Many reviews mention, “It’s just right as a drinking snack,” demonstrating its versatility as more than just a kid’s treat.

• Recreating Childhood Memories
  Many fans fondly recall eating Big Katsu as kids, and they continue to buy it even as adults. While the size may have changed, the taste remains the same, bringing a sense of nostalgia with every bite.

• Easily Accessible and Convenient
  You can find Big Katsu at convenience stores and supermarkets, making it easy to pick up and enjoy wherever you are. Whether it’s for a kid’s snack or as a casual appetizer, it’s a dependable go-to snack.

The Future of Big Katsu: Endless Possibilities

Big Katsu has evolved alongside the times, facing challenges like size reductions and price adjustments. However, its timeless taste has continued to satisfy fans, proving that it’s still a beloved snack. Listening to customer feedback and improving on things like packaging and product lineup could help it gain even more fans in the future.

It’s my hope that Big Katsu will continue to be enjoyed by people of all ages and become an even more beloved part of Japan’s food culture. While its origin as a dagashi snack may label it as “just a kids’ treat,” it has far surpassed that category, evolving into a snack that spans generations.

So why not pick up a Big Katsu yourself and rediscover its nostalgic yet modern flavor? Whether it’s to reminisce about the past or to savor the current taste, enjoying a Big Katsu will surely bring a smile to your face.

Ingredients

Fish paste, vegetable oil, wheat flour, sugar, salt, soy sauce, starch, bread crumbs, monosodium glutamate, hydrolyzed protein, and seasonings.

Allergens

Wheat, soy, fish, and eggs.