Description
Tofu Katsu is a crispy, golden-fried Japanese-inspired dish made from extra-firm tofu coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs. It offers a delicious vegan alternative to traditional katsu, featuring a crunchy exterior and tender interior, perfect for serving with tonkatsu sauce, rice, and shredded cabbage for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Seasoning
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced into 1/2-inch slabs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Breading Station
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For Frying
- 1/4 cup neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
- Press and Slice Tofu: Press the tofu for 20 to 30 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it evenly into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Season Tofu: Sprinkle both sides of each slice with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper for flavor.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls: one with 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, one with a mixture of 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk and 1 teaspoon soy sauce, and one with 1 cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder.
- Bread the Tofu: Dip each tofu slice first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the milk and soy sauce mixture, and finally press it into the panko breadcrumb mixture ensuring an even, thick coating.
- Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup neutral oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Fry Tofu Slices: Fry the breaded tofu pieces in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the crispy tofu onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the tofu katsu warm with tonkatsu sauce, steamed rice, and shredded cabbage for a classic presentation.
Notes
- For a lighter version, bake the tofu slices at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy.
- Alternatively, air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes, flipping once, for a healthier preparation.
- Tonkatsu sauce can be purchased ready-made or homemade by mixing ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of sugar.
- Pressing the tofu is essential to achieve a crispy coating and prevent sogginess.
- Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil for frying.
