Description
These Tofu and Vegetable Patties are a delicious and healthy vegan main course featuring crumbled firm tofu combined with grated carrot, zucchini, bell pepper, and aromatic seasonings. Lightly pan-fried to golden perfection, they offer a crispy exterior and tender inside, perfect for serving with dipping sauces or as a veggie burger alternative.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 1/2 zucchini, grated and squeezed dry
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: Crumble the pressed tofu into a large mixing bowl until it resembles fine crumbs. Add the grated carrot, zucchini, bell pepper, green onions, and garlic, then stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
- Bind the Ingredients: Incorporate the panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, and chopped cilantro if using. Stir until the mixture holds together when pressed. If the mixture seems too wet, gradually add more breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time, until the consistency is just right for shaping.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 8 small patties, ensuring they are compact and uniform in size for even cooking.
- Pan-Fry the Patties: Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties in batches, frying each side for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain crispiness.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, or a soy-ginger sauce, or use them as a filling in wraps or buns as veggie burgers.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, bake the patties instead of frying: place them on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- These patties pair well with sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, or soy-ginger dipping sauces for extra flavor.
- They are versatile and can be served as a main dish, in wraps, or as vegan burger patties.
- If the mixture is too wet to form patties, add extra breadcrumbs a tablespoon at a time until the right consistency is achieved.
