Vegan Katsu Curry

A plate has rice, fried tofu, and vegetarian katsu curry. There's a small bowl of soy sauce and another plate behind it.

This vegan katsu curry for Asian comfort food at it's finest. You'll love everything from the breaded, fried tofu to the curry-infused sauce, all served over rice.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Japanese

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings

Calories 413kcal

Author Marly McMillen

Ingredients

Katsu Sauce

2 teaspoons olive oil
½ cup chopped onions
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup cubed potatoes (½-inch cubes) (Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes)
1 tablespoon curry powder (McCormick's curry is best)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari)
1 cup vegetable broth
1 teaspoon agave nectar (or maple syrup)

Breaded Fried Tofu

14 ounce extra-firm tofu
½ cup panko bread crumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons vegetable oil

To Serve

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
2 teaspoons chopped parsley (or cilantro)

Cups - Metric

Instructions

For the Katsu Sauce

Heat the oil in a saucepan or skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the onions, carrots, and potatoes. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until the onion is tender and the vegetables are starting to become tender.
Stir in the curry, soy sauce, broth, and agave. Simmer (low boil) for 15 to 20 minutes. The sauce should thicken as it cooks. You can also use a fork or a spatula to press a few of the tender potato cubes to make the sauce thicker.

For the Breaded Fried Tofu

While the sauce is cooking, cut the pressed tofu into 5 to 6 rectangular strips.
In a bowl, stir together the bread crumbs, garlic powder, and salt.
Use tongs to dip the tofu in the cooking katsu sauce. Then dip it in the bread crumbs, making sure all sides are covered.
Add 4 tablespoons of oil to a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, use tongs to place the breaded tofu slices in the oil. Fry the tofu for 4 to 5 minutes, until golden brown. Use tongs to turn the slices to cook on the other side. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

To Serve:

Add some cooked rice to a plate. Place several fried tofu pieces beside and tilted slightly on the rice. Pour the hot katsu sauce over the top and on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This dish is not recommended for freezing.

Notes

How to Press Tofu:

I typically press my tofu early in the day to remove extra fluid. However, even 20 to 30 minutes of pressing will work.

Manual Method — Wrap the tofu block in paper towels or a kitchen towel and place it on a plate. Place something heavy over the top, such as a pan. Let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tofu Press — Place the tofu in the tofu press and follow the instructions to press the extra moisture out.

Nutrition