Cabbage and Tofu Patties: A Flavorful, Meat-Free Delight

Cabbage and tofu might not seem like the most exciting combination, but this recipe will change your mind. These delicious cabbage and tofu patties are full of flavor, texture, and nutritional benefits. With the addition of mushrooms, bell peppers, garlic, and green onions, these patties are a perfect, plant-based alternative to meat. Whether you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, or just looking for a healthy alternative to traditional patties, this recipe will surprise you with its satisfying taste and simplicity.

Packed with protein from tofu and eggs, and loaded with fiber from the cabbage and vegetables, these patties are great for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Serve them with a side salad or in a sandwich for a delicious meal that tastes better than meat!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Patties:

  • 250g tofu, drained and crumbled
  • 1/2 small cabbage, finely shredded
  • 30g mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 40g bell peppers, finely chopped
  • 15g garlic, minced
  • 20g green onions, finely chopped
  • 3 eggs, beaten
  • 3 tbsp corn starch
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil (for the mixture)
  • Additional cooking oil (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu and Vegetables

  1. Drain the tofu: Drain the tofu well and crumble it into a large mixing bowl using your hands or a fork.
  2. Finely chop the vegetables: Shred the cabbage finely and chop the mushrooms, bell peppers, garlic, and green onions. Add them to the tofu.

Step 2: Make the Patty Mixture

  1. Combine ingredients: Add the crumbled tofu, shredded cabbage, chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, garlic, and green onions into the bowl. Stir to combine.
  2. Season the mixture: Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of black pepper to taste.
  3. Add the binding agents: Pour in the beaten eggs and add 3 tablespoons of corn starch to help bind the ingredients. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.
  4. Add oil to the mixture: Pour 2 tablespoons of cooking oil into the mixture and stir well to ensure everything sticks together nicely.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

  1. Form the patties: Scoop out a handful of the mixture and shape it into a small, round patty about 2-3 inches in diameter. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
  2. Prepare the frying pan: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 4: Fry the Patties

  1. Fry the patties: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
  2. Drain the patties: Once fried, transfer the patties onto a plate lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Serve the patties: Serve the tofu and cabbage patties hot, either on their own or with a side salad, dipping sauce, or as part of a sandwich.

Cooking Tips

  • Press the tofu: If you have extra time, press the tofu for 20-30 minutes to remove excess moisture. This will give the patties a firmer texture.
  • Adjust seasoning: You can adjust the seasoning by adding more soy sauce, garlic, or spices like cumin or paprika for extra flavor.
  • Baking option: If you want a healthier option, you can bake the patties in the oven. Place the patties on a lined baking sheet and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like grated carrots or zucchini to make the patties even more nutritious.

Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving.
  • Freeze: You can also freeze the uncooked patties for later. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, simply cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying or baking time.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 380mg

These cabbage and tofu patties are a healthy, low-calorie meal option that offers a good balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The tofu provides a great source of plant-based protein, while the cabbage and vegetables add plenty of vitamins and minerals. By using olive oil or opting to bake the patties, you can reduce the fat content even further.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by using an egg substitute, such as flaxseed or chia seed mixed with water, to bind the patties instead of eggs.

Can I add other seasonings to the patties?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different herbs and spices, such as cumin, paprika, or curry powder, to give the patties a different flavor profile.

Can I use other types of tofu?

Firm tofu is recommended for this recipe because it crumbles nicely and holds together well in patties. Silken tofu may be too soft and watery for this dish.

What can I serve with these patties?

These patties go well with a side of salad, roasted vegetables, or even inside a burger bun with your favorite toppings. You can also pair them with a dipping sauce like soy sauce or a yogurt-based dressing.

Conclusion

These Cabbage and Tofu Patties are a perfect plant-based meal that will make you forget about meat. They are easy to prepare, full of nutrients, and versatile enough to serve with different sides or sauces. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or a meat-free alternative, this recipe is a must-try. The combination of crunchy cabbage, soft tofu, and flavorful seasonings will leave you satisfied and wanting more!