Plant-based Schnitzel with Noodles
Schnitzel usually means tenderized meat coated in egg and bread crumbs and deep-fried. This version of schnitzel would have even Julie Andrews singing its praises, thanks to the tender tofu that skips the fryer.
Ingredients
- 12 to 15 ounces block firm or extra-firm tofu
- ½ cup gluten-free flour blend
- ¾ cup water or beer
- 1 ½ cups bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt divided
- 1 ½ tablespoon sunflower oil or canola oil divided
- 8 ounces dried egg noodles or gluten-free pasta
- ½ cup chopped parsley to garnish
Instructions
- Slice tofu twice horizontally to create 3 pieces about 1/2 in thick, then cut each piece in half vertically to make 6 pieces. Different brands are different thicknesses, so slice it however is best to make pieces slightly smaller than a deck of cards.
- Line baking tray with clean kitchen towels and place tofu pieces on top in a single layer. Top with more towels, followed by another baking sheet. Weight the baking sheet (with books or cans of beans) and let moisture drain for 15 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350 F.
- In shallow bowl, combine flour and water or beer. In second shallow bowl, combine bread crumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp salt.
- Sprinkle drained tofu with remaining 1/2 tsp salt, then dip each piece in flour mixture followed by spiced bread crumbs. Place on paper towel-lined plate and pat extra bread crumb mixture gently on top in any bare areas.
- In large skillet, heat 1 Tbsp oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add half the tofu and cook 2 minutes on each side, or until golden, pressing down with flat spatula on top to ensure crumbs brown evenly. Return tofu to paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Remove any loose bread crumbs from skillet, then add remaining 1/2 Tbsp oil and cook remaining tofu.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta as per package instructions. Heat sauce, if using.
- Serve drained pasta topped with schnitzel and sauce of choice. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Enjoy!