Description
Vegan Crispy Tofu Katsu features slabs of extra-firm tofu coated in a seasoned batter and crunchy panko breadcrumbs, then fried, baked, or air-fried until golden brown and crisp. Serve it with curry, rice, or teriyaki sauce for a versatile plant-based meal.
Ingredients
- Tofu:
- 1 lb extra-firm tofu
- Neutral oil, for frying
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Soy sauce, optional
- Ground pepper or paprika, to taste
- Batter:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup room-temperature water, plus 2–3 tablespoons more if needed
- Breading:
- 1 cup Japanese breadcrumbs or panko, plus more as needed
- For Serving (optional):
- Japanese curry
- Homemade teriyaki sauce
- Steamed rice
Instructions
- Drain the tofu and wrap it in paper towels. Place a heavy flat object on top and let it sit for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Slice each tofu block into 1/2-inch thick slabs. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, or soy sauce as desired.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, paprika, and water until smooth. Add a little extra water if needed until the batter resembles a thick pancake batter.
- Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow plate or tray.
- Dip each tofu slab into the batter, then coat it well in the breadcrumbs. Repeat with the remaining tofu.
- Heat neutral oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the tofu for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oil and let cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing if desired.
- To bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place coated tofu on a lined baking tray, spray or brush lightly with oil, and bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- To air-fry: Air-fry at 350°F for 10 minutes per side, or until lightly browned and crisp.
- Serve hot with curry, rice, teriyaki sauce, or your favorite sides.
Notes
- Pressed tofu gives the best crisp texture, so don’t skip that step.
- Frying gives the juiciest result, while baking and air-frying are lighter options.
- You can season the tofu with soy sauce instead of salt for extra umami flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Fry
- Cuisine: Asian, Japanese