Crispy Eggplant Katsu with Yuzu Sauce
A lighter, vegetarian twist on Japanese katsu. Eggplant slices are air-fried (or oven-baked) to golden crisp perfection, then served with a bright, citrusy yuzu dipping sauce. Fresh, tangy, and balanced — ideal as a light dinner or a festive side dish.
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 12–16 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Eggplant Katsu
1 large eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
1 tsp salt
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
2 tbsp parmesan
2 eggs, beaten (OR ½ cup plant-milk + 1 tbsp corn starch for vegan)
Olive oil spray
For the Yuzu Sauce
2 tbsp yuzu juice (or mix 1 tbsp lemon + 1 tbsp orange)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
½ tsp rice vinegar
½ tsp grated ginger
Optional: pinch of chili flakes
Instructions
1. Prep the Eggplant
Slice eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds.
Sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
Pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Prepare the Breading
In a shallow bowl, mix:
panko
sesame seeds
garlic powder
black pepper
oregano
parmesan (if using)
In another bowl, beat the eggs (or mix vegan alternative).
3. Bread the Eggplant
Dip each slice into egg mixture.
Coat fully in seasoned panko.
Place on a plate and spray lightly with olive oil.
4. Air-Fry or Bake
Air Fryer
Air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–14 minutes, flipping halfway.
Eggplant should be golden, crisp, but soft inside.
Oven-Baked
Preheat to 425°F (220°C).
Bake 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
Spray lightly again for max crispiness.
5. Make the Yuzu Sauce
Whisk all sauce ingredients together in a small bowl.
Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
6. Serve
Serve crispy eggplant hot with:
Yuzu dipping sauce
Fresh herbs (mint, parsley, or chives)
Lemon wedges
Optional: serve over a small bed of arugula or cabbage slaw.
Tips
Use large, firm eggplants so slices hold shape.
Panko gives the best Mediterranean-Japanese fusion crisp.
For extra crunch, double-dip: egg → panko → egg → panko.
Add 1 tsp za’atar to breadcrumbs for a deeper Mediterranean flavor.
Healthy Notes
Air-frying makes this 70% lighter than deep-fried katsu.
Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats (olive oil).
Yuzu sauce is light, citrusy, and low-calorie.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 145
Protein: 5 g
Carbs: 18 g
Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 260 mg