Tofu Burgers Recipe

Tofu: Firm tofu is the base of these burgers, providing a protein-rich and versatile ingredient that absorbs flavors well.

Breadcrumbs: These help bind the patties together and add a bit of crunch.

Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor to the mixture.

Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor without the moisture of fresh garlic.

Onion powder: Adds a hint of onion flavor to the patties.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the patties, giving them a nice golden brown crust.

When forming the patties, ensure the tofu mixture is well-combined and compact to prevent them from falling apart during cooking. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a little bit of water or an extra splash of soy sauce to help bind the ingredients together. Additionally, pressing the tofu before crumbling it will remove excess moisture, resulting in a firmer texture for your burgers.

• firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making it a good alternative for tofu in burgers.

• firm tofu - Substitute with chickpeas: Mashed chickpeas can provide a similar consistency and protein content, making them a suitable replacement.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour can help bind the ingredients together while adding a slightly different texture and flavor.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes can provide a crunchy texture and act as a binder in the burger mixture.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar umami flavor.

• soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos offer a slightly sweeter flavor and are a good soy-free alternative.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic can provide a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• garlic powder - Substitute with shallot powder: Shallot powder can offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Fresh onions can provide a more robust and fresh flavor compared to onion powder.

• onion powder - Substitute with leek powder: Leek powder can offer a subtle onion-like flavor with a hint of sweetness.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a slightly sweet flavor and is suitable for cooking at medium-high heat.

• Allow the tofu burgers to cool completely after cooking. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from sticking together.
• Place the wrapped patties in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. If using a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container or bag with the date. This ensures you use the tofu burgers within a reasonable time frame, ideally within 2-3 months.
• Store the container or bag in the freezer. For best results, place it in the coldest part of the freezer, usually the back.
• When ready to eat, thaw the tofu burgers in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain their texture.
• Reheat the thawed patties in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of olive oil if necessary. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method ensures even heating without making the patties too oily.
• Serve the reheated tofu burgers on buns with your favorite toppings, just like when they were freshly made.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tofu burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and slightly crispy.

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the tofu burgers in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are warmed through and have regained their golden brown exterior.

• For a quick and easy method, use a microwave. Place the tofu burgers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu burgers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• For a steam reheat, place the tofu burgers in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the burgers soft.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the crumbled tofu, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used to cook the tofu patties over medium heat.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the tofu patties while cooking to ensure they are golden brown on both sides.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the breadcrumbs and soy sauce accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the garlic powder and onion powder precisely.

• Knife: Used to cut the tofu block into smaller pieces before crumbling.

• Cutting board: A surface to place the tofu block on while cutting it.

• Plate: Used to hold the formed tofu patties before cooking.

• Paper towels: Used to pat the tofu dry after draining to remove excess moisture.

• Buns: Used to serve the cooked tofu patties with your favorite toppings.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Drain and crumble the tofu ahead of time. Measure out the breadcrumbs and spices so everything is ready to mix.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine the tofu mixture using a food processor to save time on mixing.

Preheat the skillet: Start heating the olive oil while you form the patties to reduce waiting time.

Make extra patties: Double the recipe and freeze extra patties for a quick meal later.

Use parchment paper: Form patties on parchment paper for easy transfer to the skillet and less cleanup.