Description
This Crispy and Flavorful Tofu Katsu is a plant-based twist on the classic Japanese dish. Golden, panko-crusted tofu with a tender, meaty texture, it’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Perfect for rice bowls, sandwiches, or salads, this tofu katsu is quick, easy, and full of savory flavor.
Ingredients
1 pound firm tofu
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¼ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup plant-based egg substitute, aquafaba, or oat milk
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Drain and press the tofu for 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Slice the tofu into slabs, then freeze it for at least 6 hours. Once frozen, thaw the tofu and gently squeeze to remove any remaining liquid.
- Season the tofu slabs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
- Set up three plates for dredging: one with flour, one with your plant-based egg substitute, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Lightly season each plate with salt and pepper. Coat the tofu slabs in flour, dip them in the egg substitute, then press them into the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F, carefully add the tofu slabs to the skillet. Fry for 2–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on a wire rack to remove excess oil.
- Serve your crispy tofu katsu hot with a side of rice, shredded cabbage, and tonkatsu or chili sauce for dipping.
Notes
For a healthier alternative, you can bake the tofu instead of frying it. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
For extra crunch, add sesame seeds to the panko breadcrumbs.
For a spicy version, add chili flakes or sriracha to the dipping sauce.
Use gluten-free flour and panko for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus freezing time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
