These Tofu and Vegetable Patties are a flavorful, healthy, and versatile dish packed with plant-based protein and fresh vegetables. The crispy golden patties are made with tofu, cabbage, mushrooms, bell peppers, and a blend of seasonings. They’re easy to make, and they can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main course paired with your favorite dipping sauce.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
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Yield: Serves 4
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Cuisine: Vegan, Comfort Food
Full List of Ingredients
For the Patties:
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250g (9 oz) tofu, drained and crumbled
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1/2 small cabbage, finely shredded
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30g (1 oz) mushrooms, finely chopped
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40g (1.4 oz) bell peppers, finely chopped
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15g (1 tbsp) garlic, minced
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20g (1 tbsp) green onions, finely chopped
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3 eggs, beaten
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3 tbsp corn starch
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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1/4 tsp salt
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Black pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp cooking oil (for the mixture)
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Cooking oil, as needed for frying
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by draining the tofu and crumbling it into a large bowl. Make sure to press out any excess water from the tofu before using it in the recipe. Then, finely chop the cabbage, mushrooms, bell peppers, garlic, and green onions. Set all the prepared vegetables aside.
2. Make the Patty Mixture
In the same large bowl, combine the crumbled tofu with the finely chopped cabbage, mushrooms, bell peppers, garlic, and green onions. Add the beaten eggs, corn starch, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Stir everything together until well combined. Then, add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil to the mixture, which will help keep the patties moist and crispy when fried.
3. Shape the Patties
Once the mixture is well mixed, take a handful of the mixture and shape it into a patty about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick. Repeat this step with the remaining mixture, forming evenly shaped patties.
4. Heat the Pan
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a thin layer of cooking oil to the pan. Allow the oil to heat up before adding the patties.
5. Fry the Patties
Place the patties in the skillet and cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the patties in batches to ensure they fry evenly. Once cooked, remove the patties from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve
Serve the patties warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a creamy vegan dip. These patties are also great on their own as a snack or as part of a larger meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 180
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Fat: 10g
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Saturated Fat: 1g
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Cholesterol: 70mg
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Sodium: 500mg
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Carbohydrates: 15g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugars: 5g
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Protein: 10g
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Tofu and vegetable patties are commonly found in many Asian-inspired and plant-based dishes, as they provide a satisfying alternative to meat patties. The combination of tofu and vegetables gives these patties a light but hearty texture, making them perfect for those seeking a protein-rich, plant-based option. The recipe can be adapted to include various vegetables depending on what is available in your kitchen.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Healthy and Protein-Packed: These patties are made with tofu, a great source of plant-based protein, and are loaded with vegetables.
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Crispy and Flavorful: The patties are golden and crispy on the outside while being soft and savory on the inside, offering the perfect texture contrast.
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Quick and Easy: With just a few steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Health Benefits
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Tofu provides a great source of protein and contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. It’s also rich in calcium and iron.
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Cabbage is high in fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestion and immune function.
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Mushrooms offer a wealth of antioxidants, and they contain beneficial compounds that support immune health.
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Bell Peppers are loaded with vitamin C and are great for boosting the immune system.
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Eggs provide high-quality protein and important vitamins such as vitamin B12, which supports nerve health.
Serving Suggestions
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With a Side Salad: Serve the patties with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
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On a Bun: Use the patties as a filling for a vegetarian sandwich or burger, with your favorite condiments and toppings.
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With Rice or Quinoa: Pair with rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete, balanced meal.
Cooking Tips
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Ensure the Patties Hold Together: Be sure to press out excess moisture from the tofu to prevent the patties from falling apart.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the patties in batches to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
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Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or sweet potatoes based on what you have available.
Variations to Try
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Spicy Version: Add some chopped chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
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Gluten-Free: Replace the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
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Add Cheese: For an extra creamy texture, you can add some grated cheese to the patty mixture.
Conclusion
These Tofu and Vegetable Patties are the perfect addition to any plant-based diet. With a satisfying texture and rich, savory flavor, they can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether served as a main dish or a snack, these patties are sure to become a favorite. Plus, they’re versatile, healthy, and quick to make – making them a perfect choice for busy days when you’re craving something delicious.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I freeze the patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them before transferring them to a container or bag. Fry them when ready to serve.
2. Can I use other types of tofu?
Yes, you can use firm or extra-firm tofu for a firmer texture. Silken tofu may be too soft for this recipe.
3. Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
4. Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach to the patty mixture.
5. How can I make the patties spicier?
Add chopped fresh chili peppers, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the mixture for added heat.
6. How do I know when the patties are done?
The patties are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check by inserting a toothpick to ensure they are cooked through.
7. How do I store leftover patties?
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet before serving.
8. Can I make these patties without eggs?
Yes, you can use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) as an egg substitute for a vegan version.
9. Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to fry.
10. Can I serve these patties with a dipping sauce?
Yes, serve with soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a vegan yogurt-based sauce for extra flavor.