Panko Tofu

Crispy, golden, and irresistibly crunchy, this easy Panko Tofu recipe transforms plain tofu into a flavorful dish that's perfect for appetizers, plant-based main courses, or snacking. Coated with a delightful blend of garlic, paprika, and salt, these tofu pieces are dredged in flour, dipped in unsweetened plant-based milk, and generously covered in light and airy panko breadcrumbs for the ultimate texture. Quick to prepare and fried to perfection, each piece boasts a satisfying crunch with a tender interior. Serve with soy sauce for dipping and a sprinkle of fresh green onions for a simple yet bold finish. Whether you're a seasoned tofu lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe will earn a spot in your regular rotation!

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) Extra-firm tofu
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
• 0.25 cup Unsweetened plant-based milk
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cup Oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons Soy sauce (optional, for serving)
• 2 stalks Green onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object (such as a skillet or cans) on top. Let the tofu press for 15 minutes to remove excess water.

Step 2

Slice the tofu: Once pressed, cut the tofu into even cubes or rectangles, about 1 inch thick.

Step 3

Season the tofu: In a small bowl, mix the salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the tofu pieces.

Step 4

Prepare the dredging station: Place the all-purpose flour in one shallow bowl, the plant-based milk in another, and the panko breadcrumbs in a third.

Step 5

Bread the tofu: Working one piece at a time, dip each tofu piece into the flour (shaking off excess), then into the milk, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat well. Repeat with all pieces and set them aside on a plate.

Step 6

Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat until it glimmers (about 350°F if using a thermometer).

Step 7

Fry the tofu: Carefully place a few pieces of breaded tofu into the hot oil without crowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tofu is golden and crispy. Remove the tofu and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining tofu.

Step 8

Serve: Garnish the cooked tofu with sliced green onions, if desired, and serve with soy sauce for dipping or as part of a larger meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(756.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2052.9

Total Fat 153.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 21.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4644.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 108.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.2g	0%
Total Sugars 7.2g
Protein 78.9g	0%

Vitamin D 25IU	0%
Calcium 2854.2mg	0%
Iron 17.0mg	0%
Potassium 1382.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 64.9%

Protein: 14.8%

Carbs: 20.3%