Korean Meat & Tofu Patties are a unique and flavorful dish that brings together the savory taste of ground meat with the light texture of tofu. These patties are inspired by the bold flavors of Korean cuisine, where sweet, salty, and spicy come together in perfect harmony. The tofu adds a softness that balances the richness of the meat, making each bite a delicious combination of textures. If you’re looking for something new and satisfying, Korean Meat & Tofu Patties are the perfect choice to try!
Easy to Make and Enjoy
Making Korean Meat & Tofu Patties is easier than you think! The recipe requires just a few simple ingredients like ground meat, tofu, garlic, green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil. First, crumble the tofu and mix it with the ground meat, along with the seasoning ingredients. Then, shape the mixture into small patties and fry them until golden brown. The result is a dish that’s crispy on the outside, yet soft and juicy on the inside. Once you make these patties, you’ll want to add them to your weekly meal plan!
Perfect for Any Meal
Whether you serve them with rice, a side of kimchi, or a fresh salad, Korean Meat & Tofu Patties are incredibly versatile. They make a great addition to any meal and are perfect for both lunch and dinner. You can even pack them for lunch the next day as a tasty and satisfying snack. The flavors continue to shine through, no matter how you choose to serve them.
Why You’ll Love Korean Meat & Tofu Patties
The combination of meat and tofu in these patties is a great way to enjoy a healthier version of traditional meat patties. The tofu helps reduce the amount of fat while still keeping the patties juicy and flavorful. Korean Meat & Tofu Patties are a delicious, nutritious option that’s full of protein and flavor. Perfect for those who want to try something new or for anyone looking for a hearty meal with a twist!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Korean Meat & Tofu Patties
- Chill Your Pie Crust: Make sure the pie crust is cold before using it. This helps to create a flakier texture when baked. You can even refrigerate the crust for 10–15 minutes before rolling it out.
- Thickening the Filling: When cooking the filling, make sure to stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning. The cornstarch needs time to thicken, so let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes to get that perfect consistency.
- Lemon Zest Tip: The lemon zest in the crust and filling can be a little strong. For a more subtle flavor, start with just half the recommended amount and taste test the filling before adding more lemon juice or zest.
- Pie Assembly: When assembling the pie, use a fork to press down on the edges of the crust for a crimped look. It also helps the crust seal properly, preventing any filling from leaking out while baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need to make this pie gluten-free, substitute the regular pie crust for a gluten-free variety. Ensure all ingredients, such as cornstarch and sugar, are gluten-free certified.
- Topping Idea: The pie tastes amazing on its own, but you can top it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra flavor and texture.
- Resting Time: After baking, let the pie rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents it from running when you slice it.
Korean Meat & Tofu Patties
4
patties15
minutes20
minutes300
kcal35
minutesGet ready to savor the tasty and juicy Korean Meat & Tofu Patties, or Wanja-jeon! Perfect for everyday meals or special occasions, this recipe combines ground beef, tofu, and fresh veggies into delicious patties that are pan-fried to golden perfection. Easy to make with affordable ingredients, these savory bites will become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire. Whether you’re packing a hearty lunch box or entertaining friends, Wanja-jeon delivers flavor and satisfaction every time. Follow along with our step-by-step guide and impress your family with this classic Korean dish!
Ingredients
- Meat Tofu Blend
½ lb ground beef substitute with ground pork or a mix
4 oz firm tofu pressed to eliminate excess moisture
- Vegetables Aromatics
3 tbsp finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic minced
1 green onion sliced
1-2 tbsp grated carrot
- Seasonings
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp soy sauce
¼ tsp ground black pepper
1-2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- Binders
2 whole eggs
2-3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Cooking
3 tbsp grapeseed or vegetable oil
- Garnish
Fresh dill optional
- Alternative Ingredients:
Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives.
Tofu: Substitute with tempeh or mashed chickpeas for a different texture.
Soy Sauce: Replace with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Grapeseed Oil: Canola oil or olive oil are suitable alternatives.
Eggs: Use egg substitutes like flax eggs for a vegan version.
All-Purpose Flour: Gluten-free flour blends can replace regular flour.
Sesame Oil: If unavailable omit or use a small amount of olive oil with a dash of sesame seeds for flavor.
Dill: Fresh parsley or cilantro can be used as a garnish alternative.
Directions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, pressed tofu, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced green onion, and grated carrot. Mix thoroughly by hand until the ingredients are well integrated and the mixture begins to stick together, approximately 3 minutes.
- Season the Patties: Add kosher salt, soy sauce, ground black pepper, and toasted sesame oil to the meat mixture. Incorporate the seasonings evenly, ensuring each ingredient is well distributed. Mix for an additional 2 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Bind the Ingredients: Crack in the 2 whole eggs and add the egg yolk to the mixture. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Mix everything together until the mixture holds its shape, about 2 minutes. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into equal portions, forming each into a patty shape. Wetting your hands slightly can help in shaping without sticking.
- Cook the Patties: Heat the grapeseed oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the patties in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent excessive browning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the patties from the pan and drain any excess oil on a paper towel. Garnish with fresh dill if desired. Serve warm with your choice of sides such as rice, vegetables, or a salad. Optional: Top with a drizzle of additional soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
Equipment
- Nonstick Pan
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Vitamin A: 5IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 8mg
- Iron: 15mg
FAQ- Korean Meat & Tofu Patties
Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you want to store them longer, freeze the raw patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month. To cook, simply thaw and fry as usual.
Can I use a different protein instead of beef or pork?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef and pork. For a plant-based version, try using plant-based ground meat or mashed chickpeas, which will provide a similar texture to the tofu.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make these patties gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
What should I serve with these patties?
These Korean Meat & Tofu Patties are great served with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, kimchi, or a light salad. You can also pair them with a simple dipping sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and a little vinegar for extra flavor.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart while cooking?
Make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture, and be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly. If the mixture feels too loose after adding the eggs and flour, add a little more flour to help bind it. Also, cook the patties on medium heat to prevent them from falling apart due to excessive frying.
