If you are on the lookout for a delightful and wholesome vegetarian treat, this Tofu and Vegetable Patties Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with fresh flavors, vibrant textures, and balanced seasonings, these patties are a perfect marriage of crispy exterior and tender interior. Whether you want an easy snack, a satisfying appetizer, or a light meal, these patties bring a satisfying punch to the table. Plus, they’re packed with healthy veggies and protein-rich tofu, making every bite as nourishing as it is tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of any great dish. For this Tofu and Vegetable Patties Recipe, the list is refreshingly simple yet thoughtfully chosen to provide a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and colors. Each ingredient has an important role, from the creamy tofu that binds everything together to the crisp vegetables that add freshness and bite.
- Extra firm tofu (10.5 oz): Essential for structure and protein; draining it well ensures your patties hold together perfectly.
- Carrot (1 small, grated 100 g): Adds a natural sweetness and beautiful orange hue to brighten the patties.
- Cabbage (1/4 small, thinly sliced 100 g): Gives a subtle crunch and plenty of nutrients without overpowering flavor.
- Salt (generous pinch): A key player to draw moisture out of vegetables and season the mixture.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses a savory kick that lifts the entire flavor profile.
- Onion (1/2 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and depth when cooked into the patties.
- All-purpose flour (3 tbsp): Acts as a binder to keep the patties firm while cooking.
- Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Helps achieve a crisp exterior; extra can be added if needed.
- Vegetarian oyster sauce (1 tbsp): Provides umami richness without overpowering, balancing the vegetal notes.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Fine-tunes the seasoning to your preference.
- Neutral cooking oil: For frying, allowing the patties to crisp up beautifully.
- Thai sweet chili sauce or preferred dipping sauce: Adds a vibrant, tangy-sweet contrast that’s utterly addictive.
How to Make Tofu and Vegetable Patties Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Begin by draining and pressing the extra firm tofu to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is critical because excess water will prevent the patties from holding their shape and crisping up nicely. After pressing, crumble the tofu into a large mixing bowl with your hands or a fork, creating a texture that will blend well with the vegetables.
Step 2: Prepare and Drain the Vegetables
Place the grated carrot and thinly sliced cabbage in a fine strainer or colander, then sprinkle with a generous pinch of salt. Let this mixture sit for 8 to 10 minutes. The salt will draw out excess moisture, ensuring the patties don’t become soggy. After resting, firmly squeeze out as much liquid as you can from the veggies and add them to the bowl with the tofu.
Step 3: Mix All Ingredients
Add the minced garlic, diced onion, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, vegetarian oyster sauce, and season with salt and pepper to the tofu and vegetable mixture. Stir everything thoroughly until fully combined — the mixture should be sticky enough to hold together without being too wet. Taste and adjust the seasoning or add other favorite spices if you want to customize the flavor.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, even-sized patties. Making them uniform helps ensure they cook consistently. If the mixture seems too loose, you can add a little more flour or cornstarch to firm it up. Each patty should be compact enough to maintain its form when cooking but not overly dense.
Step 5: Cook Until Golden and Crispy
Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat, adding a thin layer of neutral cooking oil to coat the bottom. Carefully place the patties in the pan without overcrowding. Cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until a beautiful golden brown crust forms and they become crispy. Once cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
How to Serve Tofu and Vegetable Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions on top of the patties for a burst of color and an extra layer of freshness that perfectly complements the savory flavors. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the overall experience.
Side Dishes
These patties pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad, steamed jasmine rice, or a light noodle dish. The mild flavors in the sides allow the patties to shine while creating a balanced and satisfying meal. For a fun twist, serve alongside crunchy pickled vegetables to add contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the patties tucked inside soft burger buns with lettuce, cucumber slices, and a drizzle of spicy mayo for a tasty vegetarian sandwich. Alternatively, arrange them on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces for a party appetizer spread that invites sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover tofu and vegetable patties to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining their flavor and texture when refrigerated properly.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the patties for later, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 1 month in the freezer, ready for quick reheating whenever you need a convenient snack or meal.
Reheating
The best way to reheat these patties is by pan-frying them again in a little oil over medium heat until warmed through and crispy. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the patties soggy and lose their delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use soft tofu instead of extra firm tofu?
Soft tofu is not recommended for this recipe because it contains much more moisture and lacks the firmness needed to hold the patties together. Extra firm tofu is best for achieving the right texture and structure.
Are these patties gluten-free?
They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and cornstarch, plus ensuring the vegetarian oyster sauce you choose is gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels to be certain.
Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
Yes! For a lighter option, bake the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. However, pan-frying typically gives the best crispy exterior.
What other vegetables can I add to the patties?
You can experiment with finely grated zucchini, chopped spinach, or bell peppers to add variety. Just be mindful of the moisture content and adjust the flour and cornstarch accordingly to keep the mixture firm.
What dipping sauces work well with these patties?
Thai sweet chili sauce is a classic pairing, but feel free to try soy sauce mixed with a little sesame oil, a spicy sriracha mayo, or even a tangy yogurt-based dip to suit your preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Tofu and Vegetable Patties Recipe is one of those little culinary treasures that’s simple to prepare yet full of heart and flavor. It’s a dish that invites you to get creative with ingredients and presentation, all while keeping things wholesome and delicious. I can’t wait for you to try making these patties at home because they’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own as a comforting, crispy delight. Happy cooking!
Print
Tofu and Vegetable Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 small patties
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and crispy tofu and vegetable patties made with extra firm tofu, grated carrot, and thinly sliced cabbage. These savory patties are pan-fried to perfection and served warm with Thai sweet chili sauce, making a nutritious and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 10.5 oz extra firm tofu
- 1 small carrot, grated (100 g)
- 1/4 small cabbage, thinly sliced (100 g)
- Generous pinch of salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or preferred flour)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (adjust if needed)
- 1 tbsp vegetarian oyster sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Other seasonings of choice
- Neutral cooking oil
- Thai sweet chili sauce or preferred dipping sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the tofu: Drain and press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture, then crumble it into a large mixing bowl to create the base of the patties.
- Prepare the vegetables: Place the grated carrot and thinly sliced cabbage in a strainer, sprinkle generously with salt, and let sit for 8-10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, squeeze out the liquid carefully.
- Mix the ingredients: Add the pressed vegetables, minced garlic, diced onion, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, vegetarian oyster sauce, salt, and pepper into the bowl with crumbled tofu. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed based on your preference.
- Shape the patties: Take portions of the mixture and form them into small, evenly sized patties, ensuring they hold their shape.
- Heat the pan: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a thin layer of neutral cooking oil to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
- Cook the patties: Place the tofu patties in the heated pan and cook each side for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and serve warm with Thai sweet chili sauce or your choice of dipping sauce for a delicious snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu well is essential for achieving a firm texture and preventing sogginess.
- You can substitute the vegetarian oyster sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a different flavor.
- Adjust the amount of flour and cornstarch if the mixture feels too wet or too dry.
- Feel free to incorporate other seasonings or chopped herbs to customize the flavor.
- These patties can be served with various dipping sauces beyond Thai sweet chili, such as soy sauce or a spicy mayo.
