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Tofu Katsu Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 78 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Japanese
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Tofu Katsu is a crispy, golden-brown Japanese-inspired dish made with extra-firm tofu slabs coated in seasoned flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs, then pan-fried until perfectly crunchy. Served with savory katsu sauce, this vegetarian main course offers a satisfying texture and delicious flavor, perfect for meals with rice, cabbage, or even sandwiches.

Ingredients

Tofu Katsu

  • 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced into 4 slabs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 cup neutral oil (for frying)
  • Katsu sauce (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tofu: Pat the tofu slabs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and black pepper evenly to enhance flavor.
  2. Set up breading stations: Arrange three shallow bowls—one with the all-purpose flour, another with the beaten eggs, and the third with the panko breadcrumbs mixed together with garlic powder and onion powder.
  3. Bread the tofu: Dredge each tofu slab first in flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, press the tofu into the seasoned panko mixture to get an even, thick crust.
  4. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of neutral oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking, ideal for frying.
  5. Fry the tofu: Carefully place the breaded tofu slabs into the hot oil. Fry each side for 3 to 4 minutes until the coating is golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as necessary to prevent burning.
  6. Drain excess oil: Transfer the fried tofu to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil and maintain crispness.
  7. Serve: Slice the crispy tofu katsu into strips and serve hot with your favorite katsu sauce. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or shredded cabbage.

Notes

  • For a healthier alternative, bake the tofu katsu at 400°F (205°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy.
  • Serve tofu katsu with steamed rice, shredded cabbage, or inside a sandwich for a delicious meal.
  • Pressing the tofu well is essential for a firm texture and to prevent it from falling apart during frying.
  • Neutral oil such as vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil is best for frying to maintain flavor integrity.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/tofu-katsu-recipe/