Tofu Katsu with Sauce (Printer-Friendly)

Crispy tofu, sweet tangy sauce, rice and fresh veggies come together for a flavorful plant-based meal.

# What You’ll Need to Cook:

→ Tofu Katsu

01 - 1 block extra-firm tofu
02 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
04 - 6 tablespoons water
05 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 - Salt and black pepper to taste
09 - 2 tablespoons neutral oil (e.g., grape seed or avocado oil)

→ Katsu Sauce

10 - 2 tablespoons ketchup
11 - 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
12 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
13 - 1 tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
14 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
15 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

→ Serving Suggestions

16 - 2 cups cooked rice (brown, jasmine or basmati)
17 - 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
18 - 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
19 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
20 - 2 tablespoons chopped green onion

# Steps to Prepare:

01 - Slice tofu into three rectangular slabs, place between clean towels, weigh down with a baking sheet and let rest for 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
02 - Whisk together ketchup, chili garlic sauce, soy sauce, vegan Worcestershire sauce, maple syrup and garlic powder in a bowl until smooth. Set aside.
03 - Combine flaxseed and water in the first bowl. In a second bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
04 - Coat each tofu slab in flour mixture, dip in flax mixture, then press into breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place on wire rack or tray.
05 - Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry tofu pieces for 3–4 minutes per side until golden-brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
06 - Add rice to serving bowls, top with cabbage and cucumber, slice tofu and place on top. Drizzle with katsu sauce, sesame seeds and green onion.

# Extra Cooking Tips:

01 - For a chewier texture, freeze and thaw tofu before preparation.
02 - The dish is best when freshly fried; reheating may reduce crispiness.
03 - For enhanced flavor, dress the cabbage with a quick slaw dressing.