Crispy Tofu Burger

Ingredients

• 14 oz extra firm tofu (pressed and cut into two thick 'steaks' or patties)
• 0.5 cup soy milk (unsweetened; used for the wet batter)
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (added to soy milk to create a vegan buttermilk)
• 0.5 cup all-purpose flour (for the dredging station)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with flour for extra crunch)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (seasoning for the flour mix)
• 1 tsp onion powder (seasoning for the flour mix)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (seasoning for the flour mix)
• 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat level)
• salt (to taste)
• 0.25 cup neutral oil (for shallow frying (e.g., vegetable or canola oil))
• 2 burger buns (toasted)
• 2 tbsp vegan mayonnaise (for topping)
• pickles (sliced)
• 2 leaves lettuce (fresh and crisp)

Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the tofu by pressing it for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Slice the block of tofu into two thick, burger-sized slabs.

2. 2

   In a shallow bowl, combine the soy milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle slightly, creating a vegan buttermilk.

3. 3

   In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt until well combined.

4. 4

   Dredge each tofu slab first in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the soy milk mixture until fully coated, and finally back into the flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the tofu to ensure a thick, even coating.

5. 5

   Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the tofu slabs in the pan.

6. 6

   Fry the tofu for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the coating is deep golden brown and very crispy. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

7. 7

   Assemble the burgers: Spread vegan mayonnaise on the bottom of the toasted buns. Add lettuce, the crispy tofu patty, and sliced pickles. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Notes

For the best texture, ensure the tofu is extra firm and well-pressed. If you want a spicier burger, add a splash of hot sauce to the wet batter or increase the cayenne pepper in the flour mix.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• vegan
• vegetarian
• high-protein
• dinner
• comfort food
• fried
• tofu