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–+ servings
Tofu Katsu

Crispy Tofu Katsu with Homemade Umami Sauce for Comfort Bliss

Delight in this Crispy Tofu Katsu, a vegan twist on a classic Japanese dish, bursting with umami and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 cutlets
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Katsu
  • 14 oz Firm Tofu ensure shape and texture
  • 1 tbsp Marmite umami enhancer
  • 1 cup Vegetable Stock or favorite broth
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour gluten-free option available
  • 1/4 cup Cold Water for light batter
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs gluten-free option available
  • 1 cup Vegetable Oil for frying
For the Katsu Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Sake or mirin/white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup Apple Juice or lower-sugar fruit juice
  • 1 tbsp Vegan Worcestershire Sauce or non-vegan alternative
  • 1 tbsp Soy Sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tbsp Ketchup adds sweetness and tang
  • 1 tbsp Date Syrup or agave/maple syrup substitute
  • 1 tbsp Grated Onion or shallots for milder taste
  • 1 clove Grated Garlic or garlic powder

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Wire Rack
  • Deep pot
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Drain tofu and freeze overnight, then defrost and press on a wire rack.
  2. Combine sake and apple juice in a saucepan, boil and simmer for 8-10 minutes until thickened.
  3. Brush pressed tofu with a mixture of dissolved marmite and vegetable stock.
  4. Whisk together all-purpose flour and cold water to create a smooth batter.
  5. Dip seasoned tofu cutlets in the batter, then coat in panko breadcrumbs.
  6. Fry breaded tofu cutlets in hot oil for about 2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  7. Slice tofu katsu and serve hot with katsu sauce drizzled on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cutletCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 700mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Store leftover Tofu Katsu in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping katsu and sauce separate to maintain crispiness.

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