There’s something undeniably comforting about crispy, golden schnitzel, but this plant-based version takes things to a whole new level. Made with extra-firm tofu that’s been marinated, triple-dredged, and shallow-fried until golden and crunchy, this recipe is all about big texture and bold flavour. Finished with a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey (or maple syrup, if you prefer), it’s the kind of dish that impresses at the dinner table but still feels like comfort food.
Whether you serve it on top of a grain bowl, with a hearty salad, or layered into a sandwich, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, even for the tofu skeptics in your life. And yes, it reheats like a dream if you pop it back in the oven or air fryer.
Nutritional Benefits
This schnitzel isn’t just delicious, it’s also packed with plant-based nutrition. The tofu offers a generous serving of protein and calcium, which are both key for keeping energy stable and supporting muscle recovery. Freezing and thawing the tofu gives it a meatier texture that even omnivores appreciate.
We’ve added nutritional yeast and sesame seeds into the crust for bonus B vitamins, fibre, and healthy fats. And if you go with hot honey or maple syrup, you get a touch of natural sweetness without refined sugar. It’s indulgent, yes but in a totally balanced, feel-good way.
Crispy Hot Honey Tofu Schnitzel
Description
This crispy hot honey tofu schnitzel is so delicious and comforting with flavourful marinated tofu and an extra crispy coating. It's so easy to make and versatile. You can serve it on rice and veggies as a main meal or top it on salad.
Ingredients
Marinade
Corn starch mix
Milk mix
Crust mix
Instructions
-
Press the tofu to remove all liquid. In a bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients. Slice the tofu into 4 equal large pieces. Place the sliced tofu in a dish and cover with marinade, flipping them over a few times to evenly coat both sides. Allow to marinade for 10 minutes while prepping the dredging station.
-
For the liquid milk "egg" mixture: combine all ingredients in a plate that is large enough to fit the tofu.
-
For the crumb mix combine all ingredients in another plate and mix well.
-
For the corn starch mix combine the corn starch and smoked paprika in another plate and mix well.
-
You will now have 3 separate mixing plates. Heat a large pan on medium heat and add enough cooking oil for a shallow fry.
-
To assemble, coat each schnitzel in a thin layer of cornstarch mixtures on both sides, then drench both sides in the milk mixtures. Then coat each piece in the crumb mixture on both sides. Sprinkle extra crumb mix over top and press down with your hands to give it a thick coat. Shake off any excess crumb then transfer to another plate lined with parchment paper. Repeat steps until all 4 schnitzels are coated.
-
Fry the schnitzel on each side for ~2 mins or until golden and crisp. Remove and place on a paper towel lined plate to remove excess oil. Chop into strips. Squeeze lemon over it, top with chopped parsley. Drizzle a generous amount of hot honey or hot maple syrup. Can serve on top of rice or paired with your favourite salad.
NOTES
-
For homemade hot honey: combine hot peppers of choice (2-9 peppers depending on desired heat) and slice them very thin. Place them in a jar and top it with enough honey to cover the peppers. Mix it well. Put a cheesecloth on top and an elastic band around to keep the cloth in place. Put the jar in a dark place and allow to ferment. After 2 days, remove the cheesecloth and place the jar lid on top. Continue to store in a dark place. After one week of fermentation it can be placed in the fridge and is ready to use.
For homemade hot maple syrup: combine hot peppers of choice (2-9 peppers depending on desired heat) and slice them very thin. Place them in a jar and top it with enough maple syrup to cover the peppers. Mix it well the cover it and place it in the fridge. Let it sit for 2 days in the fridge before use.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 357kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Saturated Fat 4g20%
- Total Carbohydrate 47g16%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 24g
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.