Easy Tofu Burgers

I stopped at the Japanese market on Sunday evening and found this tofu burger mix. I was quite thrilled, the directions say to just add a block of crumbled tofu to the package and fry like patties. I was a bit disappointed when I opened the package, though. It was basically just panko bread crumbs and seasoning, and what's more the tofu burgers were mushy and didn't stick together well.

I decided to make my own version. Not only did this turn out better, but it's cheaper and just as easy. The water is removed from the tofu and eggs are added to give them a better consistency. When I gave one to my 4 year old today she was skeptical, but after eating it she said, "Mama I don't want one more. I want TWO more." so there you go.

Easy Tofu Burgers

Ingredients:

1 package of tofu, firm or extra firm
2 eggs or egg substitute
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
3/4 tsp vegetarian chicken flavor
1/2 tsp cilantro
dash of pepper

Directions:

Take the tofu out of the package and slice into 1/2 inch slices. Put a paper towel on a plate, and put the slices onto the towel to drain out the water. Lightly salt the pieces and add two more towels on top. When the paper towels are thoroughly soaked the excess water has been removed. (Note: removing the water from tofu in this way makes it so that it absorbs flavor far better. I do this before adding it to stir fry and all sorts of cooking).

Mash the tofu in a bowl with your hands and add the rest of the ingredients, stir thoroughly. Cover and let it sit in the fridge for at least 45 min. Spray a pan with oil, shape into patties and lightly fry. Make sure your patties are not too large or they will be hard to flip. Garnish with ketchup, mustard and tomato like you would normally do for a hamburger.

Optional: If you'd like a crispier texture, try baking them at 350 for 20 minutes.