Savory Meat and Tofu Patties are a wonderful fusion of flavors that come together in the most unexpected yet delightful way. I first stumbled upon this idea while experimenting in my kitchen, trying to find a healthier alternative to traditional meat patties. By blending ground meat with tofu, I created a patty that was both hearty and light. The tofu adds a smooth texture while keeping the patties juicy and tender, unlike anything I had tried before. The Savory Meat and Tofu Patties quickly became a favorite, and they’re now a regular in my meal rotations.
Flavorful Ingredients for a Perfect Balance
The beauty of these Savory Meat and Tofu Patties lies in the ingredients you choose. I typically use a combination of lean ground beef and firm tofu, as they balance each other perfectly. The addition of finely chopped onions, garlic, and a mix of herbs and spices—like cumin and paprika—brings the patties to life. It’s a simple recipe, but every bite packs so much flavor. Whether you prefer a bit of heat with some chili flakes or a more savory profile, you can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Cooking the Patties: Crispy and Delicious
Once the patties are formed, they are pan-fried to a golden crisp. The key is to get the right amount of heat so that the outside becomes perfectly crispy while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. I always recommend serving Savory Meat and Tofu Patties with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft and savory inside, making it a satisfying meal for any time of day.
A Meal for Every Occasion
What I love most about these Savory Meat and Tofu Patties is their versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week, they fit into so many meal plans. You can serve them on a bun for a delicious burger or alongside rice for a more filling meal. These patties even work well as a snack, making them perfect for any occasion. The balance of meat and tofu makes them a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor—something I always strive for in my cooking.
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Chef’s Notes- Savory Meat and Tofu Patties
- Tofu Drainage: Make sure to drain the tofu thoroughly before using it in the recipe. Excess moisture can make the patties soggy and harder to form. Press the tofu between paper towels or use a tofu press for best results.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili paste. For extra umami, try incorporating a bit of miso paste into the mix.
- Binding the Mixture: If the mixture feels too wet to form patties, you can add a bit more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. The eggs help bind everything together, so be sure to include them unless using a vegan substitute.
- Uniform Patties: When forming the patties, try to make them of uniform size so they cook evenly. A kitchen scale can be helpful for ensuring equal portions, but your hands work just as well!
- Perfect Cooking Temperature: Keep the heat at medium-low while frying the patties to ensure a golden, crispy exterior without overcooking the inside. High heat may cause the patties to burn on the outside before cooking through.
- Resting the Patties: Let the patties rest for 10 minutes after forming them. This resting time helps them hold their shape during cooking and allows the flavors to meld.
- Storage & Freezing: These patties freeze wonderfully. After cooling, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pan with a bit of oil for a crispy finish.
- Serve With: Pair the patties with a fresh salad, steamed rice, or pickled vegetables to add a burst of flavor and balance the richness of the patties. They also make a great addition to a sandwich or wrap!
Savory Meat and Tofu Patties
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minutesDiscover the delightful flavors of easy-to-make savory meat and tofu patties inspired by traditional Korean cuisine. These juicy, soft patties are perfect for any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive addition to your lunchbox. With simple, affordable ingredients and customizable options, you can whip up a large batch effortlessly and even freeze leftovers for later. The secret to their irresistible texture and taste lies in the perfect blend of ground meat, tofu, and fresh vegetables, pan-fried to golden perfection. Get ready to impress your taste buds and loved ones with this versatile and delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- Proteins
½ pound ground beef or a combination of pork and beef
4 ounces firm tofu drained thoroughly
- Vegetables
3 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic minced
1 green onion sliced
1 to 2 tablespoons grated carrot
- Seasonings
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon soy sauce
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 to 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- Binding Agents
2 large eggs
1 extra yolk
2 to 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Cooking
3 tablespoons grapeseed oil or vegetable oil
- Optional Garnish
Fresh dill sprigs
- Alternative Ingredients:
Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
Tofu: Replace with tempeh for a different texture.
All-Purpose Flour: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
Soy Sauce: Swap with tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Grapeseed Oil: Replace with canola oil or avocado oil if preferred.
Eggs: Use flax eggs as a vegan substitute.
Sesame Oil: Reduce or omit for a lower sodium option.
Directions
- Preparing the Mixture – In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, drained tofu, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced green onion, and grated carrot. Add kosher salt, soy sauce, black pepper, toasted sesame oil, and one egg to the mixture. Use your hands to mix all ingredients until the mixture becomes slightly sticky, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Forming the Patties – Divide the prepared mixture into 16 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball between your palms, then gently flatten each ball into a 2-inch diameter disk, approximately ¼ inch thick. Allow the patties to rest for 10 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
- Cooking the Patties – Heat the grapeseed or vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Carefully place the patties into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until they achieve a beautiful yellow color without getting too brown. You can optionally garnish with fresh dill before serving.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- Nonstick Pan
- silicone spatula set
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Vitamin A: 700IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQ- Savory Meat and Tofu Patties
Can I use a different type of meat for these patties?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes can be used in place of the ground beef. Make sure the meat you choose has enough fat content for juiciness.
How can I make these patties gluten-free?
To make the patties gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also check your sesame oil for gluten if necessary.
Can I make these patties in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the patties a day ahead. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. You can also freeze them uncooked for later use.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the patties after they’ve cooled completely. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Are these patties suitable for meal prep?
Yes, these patties are perfect for meal prepping! They are easy to make in bulk, freeze well, and can be reheated quickly for a satisfying meal. Just pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
