Step 1

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add collards and water; cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and wilted, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vinegar, paprika and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cover to keep warm.

Step 2

Meanwhile, cut tofu crosswise into 8 equal pieces. Blot with paper towels to remove excess water. Whisk buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder and cayenne in a 7-by-11-inch baking dish. Add the tofu and turn to coat. Let stand, turning once, for 5 minutes.

Step 3

Place panko on a plate. Dredge the tofu in the panko, coating both sides.

Step 4

Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until brown and crispy on one side, 4 to 5 minutes. Turn the tofu over and drizzle in the remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Cook until browned on the other side, about 4 minutes more.

Step 5

Sprinkle the tofu with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and serve with the collards and hot honey, if desired.