Shark Katsu
Shark Katsu is a Japanese-inspired dish consisting of breaded and deep-fried shark meat cutlets, similar to tonkatsu (pork) or chicken katsu. The shark meat is typically marinated, coated in panko breadcrumbs, and fried until golden, often served with shredded cabbage, rice, and a tangy tonkatsu sauce. It's a specialty in some coastal regions of Japan and other areas where shark is commonly consumed.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Shark Katsu is high in protein due to the shark meat and is also a significant source of fat from the deep-frying process and breading, making it a calorie-dense meal. It provides key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium, with a rough calorie ballpark of 500-700 kcal per serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 600 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbs | 40 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 8.5 µg |
| Selenium | 45 µg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 10 mg |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.2 g |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Magnesium | 50 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
Per 1 serving (150 g shark cutlet with breading and oil, plus 100 g shredded cabbage) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, shark katsu reflects Japan's adaptation of Western frying techniques (katsu from 'cutlet') to local seafood, while nutritionally, shark meat is known for its high protein and omega-3 content, though it may contain higher levels of mercury compared to other fish.
