How to Make Ebi Katsu Burger (Shrimp Cutlet Burger Recipe)

Ebi katsu burger is a delightful fusion of Japanese and Western flavors, offering a refreshing twist on the classic burger and highlighting the Japanese love for seafood-based comfort food. Unlike a traditional beef or pork patty, the star of this burger is a crunchy and flavorful shrimp cutlet, giving it a lighter, fresher, and slightly sweet taste that sets it apart from ordinary burgers. This combination of textures and flavors reflects the Japanese approach to cuisine, where balance, presentation, and harmony are key.

At the heart of the burger is the ebi katsu patty, made from finely chopped shrimp blended with seasonings such as salt, pepper, and sometimes a touch of mirin or sake to bring out its natural sweetness. The shrimp mixture is then shaped into a round patty and coated generously with Japanese panko breadcrumbs. Unlike standard breadcrumbs, panko creates an airy, crisp crust that fries up beautifully golden while remaining light and crunchy. The result is a patty that is crispy on the outside but tender, juicy, and flavorful on the inside. This contrast in textures is what makes Japanese fried dishes, like ebi katsu, so satisfying and distinct from Western-style breaded fried foods.

The burger is served on a soft, slightly sweet bun, which is often lightly toasted to provide a subtle crunch that complements the crispy patty. Inside, you’ll typically find fresh toppings such as finely shredded cabbage or lettuce, which add a refreshing crispness and slight bitterness to balance the richness of the fried shrimp. Some versions even include thinly sliced tomato or cucumber, offering extra moisture and freshness. The layering of textures—soft bun, crunchy shrimp, crisp vegetables—creates a multi-dimensional bite that is both fun and satisfying to eat.

A key element that elevates the ebi katsu burger is the Japanese mayonnaise. Richer and creamier than Western-style mayo due to its egg yolk–heavy formulation, it has a subtle sweetness and silky texture that pairs perfectly with seafood. Japanese mayo is sometimes enhanced with a touch of rice vinegar, wasabi, or even a hint of wasabi, adding complexity, a slight tang, and a gentle kick that complements the shrimp without overpowering it.

In place of the familiar tonkatsu sauce often paired with fried pork cutlets, the ebi katsu burger is commonly served with tartar sauce. This creamy and slightly chunky condiment is made with boiled eggs, pickles, mayonnaise, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Its tangy, rich, and slightly sweet flavor harmonizes beautifully with the shrimp patty, cutting through the fried coating while adding a luxurious mouthfeel. Some restaurants even offer variations with extra herbs, capers, or finely chopped onions, making each bite slightly different and adding a gourmet touch.

Ebi katsu burger is versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings—whether at home for a casual meal, at a café for a quick lunch, or as part of a fun outdoor picnic. Its combination of textures, flavors, and visual appeal makes it a treat for both the palate and the eyes. The burger also exemplifies the Japanese approach to fusion cuisine, blending Western-style sandwiches with distinctly Japanese ingredients and seasonings. It is a fun, flavorful, and satisfying dish that appeals to both children and adults, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, potlucks, weekend brunches, or even casual dinner parties. With every bite, the crispy patty, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetables come together to deliver an unforgettable Japanese twist on a classic comfort food.