Description
Tofu Katsu is a crispy, golden-brown Japanese-inspired vegan dish featuring extra-firm tofu slices breaded with panko and seasoned flour, then fried to perfection. This plant-based alternative to traditional katsu is flavorful and satisfying, ideal for serving with tonkatsu sauce or over rice with shredded cabbage for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu Preparation
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced into 1/2-inch slabs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup plant-based milk (unsweetened)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Cooking
- 1/4 cup neutral oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Press and Slice Tofu: Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into even 1/2-inch thick slices to ensure uniform cooking.
- Season Tofu: Lightly season both sides of the tofu slices with salt and black pepper to add basic flavor.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with a mixture of plant-based milk and soy sauce, and one with panko breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder and onion powder.
- Bread the Tofu: Dip each tofu slice into the flour first, coating it evenly, then into the soy sauce and plant-based milk mixture, and finally press into the panko breadcrumb mixture to adhere a crispy coating.
- Heat Oil and Fry: In a skillet, heat the neutral oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded tofu slices in batches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the fried tofu to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil and keep them crispy.
- Serve: Serve the tofu katsu hot with tonkatsu sauce, or place it over steamed rice with shredded cabbage for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, try oven-baking or air-frying the tofu. Spray tofu with oil and bake at 400°F or air-fry at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve with steamed rice and pickled vegetables for a full traditional-style meal.
