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Air Fryer Vegetable Katsu served on a plate

Air Fryer Vegetable Katsu

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Air Fryer Vegetable Katsu delivers crispy panko-coated eggplant, sweet potato, or zucchini slices without deep-frying. The air fryer crisps the coating in 10-15 minutes while keeping the vegetables tender inside, perfect for easy weeknight meals or meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Japanese

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium eggplant firm, sliced ¼ inch thick
  • 1 large sweet potato firm, sliced ¼ inch thick
  • 2 medium zucchini firm, sliced ¼ inch thick
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour for coating
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs fresh for crispy coating
  • 1 teaspoon salt for seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper for seasoning
  • vegetable oil spray spray directly on breaded vegetables
  • 0.5 cup katsu sauce served on the side

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes. Slice all vegetables into ¼-inch thick rounds or planks using a sharp knife to ensure even cooking.
  2. Pat the vegetable slices dry thoroughly with paper towels for 1-2 minutes to prevent soggy coating. Set up three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Coat each vegetable slice first in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the egg wash until fully coated, then press into the panko breadcrumbs to cover both sides. Place the breaded pieces on a clean plate as you finish coating the batch.
  4. Arrange the breaded vegetable slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving about 1 inch of space between pieces to prevent steaming. Lightly spray the tops with vegetable oil spray. Air fry for 7 minutes at 400°F.
  5. Flip the katsu pieces using tongs, spray the other side lightly with vegetable oil spray, and air fry for an additional 3 to 8 minutes, checking for a golden-brown crust and tender interior by piercing with a fork.
  6. Serve immediately with katsu sauce on the side to keep the coating crispy.

Notes

  • Pat vegetable slices dry completely before breading to ensure a crispy coating.
  • Use fresh panko breadcrumbs for best texture and avoid clumping.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; leave space between pieces for even crisping.

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