Tofu Katsu Bento Box

This Tofu Katsu Bento Box is one of my absolute favourite lunches to prep ahead. It’s simple, satisfying, and brings together crunchy, savoury, fresh, and sweet all in one box. Plus, it travels well and keeps beautifully in the fridge – ideal for busy days or mindful midday breaks.

Jump to:

• 🌿 What’s in a Tofu Katsu Bento?
• ❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• 📝 How to make Tofu Katsu Bento Box
• 💕 Final thoughts
• 📖 Recipe
• 💬 Reviews

🌿 What’s in a Tofu Katsu Bento?

This bento is all about balance – protein, grains, veggies, and a little something extra. Here's what I like to include:

⭐️ The Star: Tofu Katsu
Crispy, golden tofu cutlets coated in panko breadcrumbs, shallow-fried or air-fried until beautifully crunchy. It’s savoury, hearty, and seriously satisfying.

🍚 The Base: Steamed Rice
Short-grain rice is the classic, but you can also use brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome twist. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for extra flavour.

🥗 The Sides:
Cherry tomatoes, cucumber and edamame will go a long way which doesn’t require any cooking.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside, tender inside – thanks to panko-coated tofu
• One-pan friendly and great for batch cooking
• Kid-approved and lunchbox-perfect
• Easy customization because you can replace tofu with seitan or mushroom, and any side greens of your choice

👇Here are some more ideas for your Perfect Plant-Based Packed Lunch

• Tofu Katsu Curry
• Korean Braised Tofu
• Lemongrass Tofu Noodle Salad
• Vegan Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)

📝 How to make Tofu Katsu Bento Box

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed
• ¼ cup unsweetened plant milk
• ¼ cup flour
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt, pepper, chilli flakes, and a pinch of garlic powder
• Neutral oil for shallow frying
• Cooked rice to pair
• My choice of side greens: cherry tomato, cucumber, edamame

👇 Save this picture below for your shopping list next time:

Instructions (with pictures)

1. Prepare three bowls: flour mixed with seasoning, plant milk, and panko.
2. Slice the tofu into slabs or cutlets.
3. Dip tofu in flour, then plant milk, then panko to coat.
4. Fry until golden on both sides (or air-fry at 200°C for ~15 minutes, flipping halfway).
5. Cool slightly before adding to your bento to keep it crispy.

🍱 Assembling the Bento Box

• Start with a portion of rice in one section
• Add tofu katsu pieces beside or on top (you can slice them into strips for easy eating)
• Tuck in your sides
• Chilli sauce or ketchup? Just add any dipping sauce that you like!

💕 Final thoughts

There’s something undeniably joyful about opening a bento box. Neatly arranged compartments, colourful little dishes, and a perfect balance of flavours – it’s like a gift you packed for your future self. 

This vegan tofu katsu bento box isn’t just a lunch – it’s a little act of self-care. It’s proof that plant-based meals can be joyful, nourishing, and downright delicious. Whether you’re packing it for work, school, or a picnic in the park, it’s a meal that always brings a smile.

What is your inspiration for a perfect lunch box? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram @veggieanh — I’d love to see your creations!

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📖 Recipe