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–+ servings

Tofu Katsu Sandwiches for Two

This tasty tofu katsu sandwich recipe for two delivers a crispy, golden tofu cutlet nestled between slices of soft white bread, paired with a tangy-sweet tonkatsu sauce and a cabbage slaw for crunch. Perfect as a light meal or lunch, it combines Japanese comfort flavors in an easy-to-make vegetarian sandwich.
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Total Time 35 minutes
Course Sandwich
Cuisine Japanese-inspired
Servings 2

Equipment

  • 10-inch nonstick skillet
  • Wire rack
  • Large zip-top bag
  • Shallow bowls

Ingredients
  

Tonkatsu Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon sugar

Tofu Coating:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ⅔ cup panko bread crumbs
  • 7 ounces firm or extra-firm tofu
  • ¼ teaspoon table salt
  • ½ cup vegetable oil for frying

Cabbage Slaw:

  • 1¼ teaspoons unseasoned rice vinegar
  • ¾ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1½ cups shredded red or green cabbage
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

  • 4 slices soft white sandwich bread

Instructions
 

  • Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of the sugar until well combined. Set this sauce aside.
  • Prepare Tofu Cutlets: Beat the egg and flour together in a shallow dish. Place the panko in a zip-top bag, crush slightly with a rolling pin, then pour into another shallow dish. Cut tofu into four slices, about ½-inch thick. Pat dry thoroughly and sprinkle each slice with salt. Dip each slice in the egg-flour mixture, letting any excess drip off, then press into the panko to coat all sides. Set aside on a large plate.
  • Fry the Tofu: Line a wire rack over a baking sheet and cover with triple-layered paper towels. Heat the oil in a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Fry tofu slices until deeply golden on both sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove and let drain on the prepared rack.
  • Make the Slaw & Assemble: In a bowl, whisk the vinegar, sesame oil, and remaining ¼ teaspoon sugar. Add cabbage, toss to coat, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
    Layer cabbage and fried tofu onto two slices of bread, spoon some sauce over the tofu, then top with the remaining bread slices. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Milk bread is traditional but regular soft sandwich bread works well.
  • Tofu must be patted dry thoroughly for best crispiness.
  • This dish is ideal for lunch or a quick dinner and can be scaled up for more servings.
Keyword crispy tofu sandwich, Japanese tofu cutlet sandwich, meatless sandwich recipe, quick lunch ideas for two, recipe for two sandwiches, recipes for two, tofu katsu for two, vegetarian katsu sandwich
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