Close-up of a tofu patty with melted cheddar and diced onion

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Tofu Burgers

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About

Freezing is the trick that makes these tofu burgers work. A block of firm tofu frozen for three days changes texture as the water inside turns to ice and pushes the curd apart; once thawed and pressed, it is spongier and chewier, closer to ground meat than to fresh tofu.

The frozen block is thawed in its package in hot water for about twenty minutes, then pressed under a three- to five-pound weight for twenty to thirty minutes to squeeze out the liquid. Chopped finely, it is mixed with onion and celery softened in a little oil, shredded Cheddar, a beaten egg, salt and pepper. The mixture is dropped into a skillet with a quarter inch of hot oil in six portions and flattened with a spatula, then fried for five to seven minutes a side until golden. The cheese and egg make them vegetarian rather than vegan.

Ingredients

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Tofu1 (12 ounce) package firm tofu, frozen for 72 hours
Vegetable oil2 teaspoons vegetable oil
White onion1 small onion, chopped
Celery1 stalk celery, chopped
Cheddar0.25 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Egg1 large egg, beaten
Black peppersalt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil0.5 cup vegetable oil for frying, or as needed

Recipe

1
Bring a large saucepan of water to a simmer. Leave frozen tofu in its package and place into the water. Remove from the heat and let tofu thaw for about 20 minutes in the hot water.
2
Remove tofu from the package and transfer to a plate. Place another plate on top of tofu. Set a 3- to 5-pound weight on top. Press tofu for 20 to 30 minutes; drain and discard the accumulated liquid.
3
While tofu is draining, heat 2 teaspoons oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add onion and celery; sauté until soft and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat.
4
Finely chop tofu and place into a mixing bowl. Add onion and celery mixture, Cheddar, egg, salt, and pepper; mix until thoroughly combined.
5
Pour 1/4 inch oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Drop tofu mixture into the skillet in six equal portions. Flatten with a spatula to form patties. Fry until golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes per side.

Original recipe and photos: Allrecipes