Print

Tofu Katsu

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Crispy, golden tofu cutlets coated in panko crumbs and served with savory tonkatsu-style sauce. A crunchy, satisfying vegan twist on a Japanese favorite.

Ingredients

1 block (14–16 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained

¼ cup all-purpose flour (or potato/corn starch)

½ cup plant-based milk or aquafaba

1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

1 to 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)

Neutral oil for frying (e.g. vegetable, canola, or sunflower)

Optional for serving: Cooked rice or shredded cabbage, Tonkatsu-style sauce or vegan mayo, Pickled vegetables or curry sauce

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu: Wrap in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, weight with a plate and cans for 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Slice tofu block into 3–4 rectangular cutlets (~½-inch thick). Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Set up breading station: Use three shallow bowls—bowl 1 with flour, bowl 2 with plant milk or aquafaba, bowl 3 with panko seasoned with salt and pepper.
  4. Dredge each tofu piece: coat in flour (shake off excess), dip into milk/aquafaba, then press into panko until evenly coated.
  5. To cook: For frying, heat oil to ~350°F (180°C) and fry each side 1–2 minutes until golden. Drain on a rack or paper towels. For air-frying, spray tofu lightly with oil and cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes, flip and cook another 5 minutes. For baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), place tofu on rack over baking sheet and bake 10–12 minutes per side or until golden and crisp.
  6. Serve over rice or cabbage, topped with tonkatsu sauce or vegan mayo. Garnish with scallions or pickles if desired.

Notes

Freeze tofu before pressing for a firmer, chewier texture.

Customize batter with garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs.

Use gluten-free crumbs or cornflakes if needed.

Reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Great as a sandwich filler, in curry bowls, or salads.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/tofu-katsu/