Crispy Panko Breaded Tofu Recipe
This Crispy Panko Breaded Tofu recipe features extra firm tofu marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, tomato paste, garlic, and spices, then coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, this tofu makes an excellent protein-packed vegetarian option for any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu Marinade
- 1 lb extra firm tofu
- 3 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 ½ tsp tomato paste
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp paprika
- ¼ cup warm water
Coating and Frying
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying (about ¼ cup or enough for shallow frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Cut the extra firm tofu into smaller pieces and place them between absorbent paper towels. Apply gentle pressure to remove as much excess moisture as possible. This step ensures tofu achieves a crispier texture when cooked.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together warm water, dark soy sauce, tomato paste, rice vinegar, minced garlic, brown sugar, and paprika. Stir thoroughly to dissolve the sugar and combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Marinate the Tofu: Pour a portion of the marinade into a glass container. Arrange a layer of tofu pieces and brush them with marinade, then add another tofu layer on top. Ensure each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate the tofu to marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
- Coat with Panko: Remove tofu from the marinade. Using any remaining marinade, brush the tofu pieces lightly to help the panko breadcrumbs stick well. Coat each piece evenly with the panko breadcrumbs.
- Fry the Tofu: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat until hot. Fry the tofu pieces in batches, cooking each side until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu well is key to achieving maximum crispiness.
- Marinate tofu for at least 30 minutes, but overnight yields the best flavor.
- Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil for frying.
- Shallow frying is preferred to maintain a crispy coating without excessive oil absorption.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated in a toaster oven or air fryer.
Keywords: crispy tofu,panko tofu,pan fried tofu,vegetarian tofu recipe,Asian tofu recipe
Find it online: https://leofoster.com/crispy-panko-breaded-tofu-recipe/
