Description
A vegan twist on the classic Japanese Katsu, featuring crispy tofu breaded in a panko coating and smothered in glossy teriyaki sauce. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions with bold flavor and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
1 block (14-16 oz or 400–450g) extra-firm tofu, pressed
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (250ml) plant-based milk (such as almond or soy)
1 cup (70g) panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crisp)
Oil for frying (such as vegetable or peanut oil)
1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce (ensure it’s vegan)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
3 tablespoons maple syrup (or agave nectar)
1 teaspoon minced ginger
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons water
Steamed jasmine or sushi rice, for serving
Optional: pickled radishes, crispy onions, or wasabi mayo for garnish
Instructions
Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove moisture.
In three separate bowls, prepare the breading stations: flour, plant-based milk (add cornstarch to the milk for extra crisp, if desired), and panko.
Dip each tofu slice into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the milk mixture, followed by the panko, pressing to coat well.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (oil should be about 1/4 inch deep and hot enough to sizzle when a drop of water is added).
Fry the tofu in batches for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, ginger, and sesame oil over medium heat. Add water to thin slightly and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until glossy and slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
Serve each tofu katsu patty on a bed of steamed rice, drizzled generously with teriyaki sauce and garnished with pickled radishes or wasabi mayo if using.
Notes
To reduce oil usage, consider baking the tofu at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes on a baking sheet, flipping halfway through. For deeper flavor, let the teriyaki sauce simmer a little longer to thicken and darken. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
