If you’ve never thought of cabbage as an ingredient that could rival the taste and texture of meat, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. This cabbage and tofu patties recipe will have you rethinking how you use vegetables in your meals. The combination of finely shredded cabbage, crumbled tofu, and a blend of savory seasonings creates a dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also offers a satisfying, hearty texture. Whether you’re a vegetarian, looking to reduce your meat intake, or just in search of a new way to enjoy tofu, these patties are a must-try!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Patties:

250g tofu, drained and crumbled: Tofu provides a protein-rich base for the patties, absorbing the flavors of the other ingredients.

1/2 small cabbage, finely shredded: Cabbage adds a crunchy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the tofu perfectly.
30g mushrooms, finely chopped: Mushrooms bring an earthy, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the patties.
40g bell peppers, finely chopped: Bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to the patties.

15g garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the patties with a robust, aromatic flavor.
20g green onions, finely chopped: Green onions add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a bit of color.
3 eggs, beaten: Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the patties together during cooking.

3 tbsp corn starch: Corn starch helps thicken the mixture and gives the patties a slight crispiness when fried.
1 tbsp soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty, savory depth of flavor to the patties.
1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper, to taste: Adds a bit of heat and balances the flavors.
2 tbsp cooking oil (for the mixture): Adds moisture and richness to the patties, helping to create a tender texture.
Cooking oil (for frying): Ensures the patties cook evenly and achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Drain and Crumble the Tofu: Start by draining the tofu well to remove excess moisture. Once drained, crumble the tofu into small pieces using your hands or a fork. This will help it blend more easily with the other ingredients.
Shred and Chop the Vegetables: Finely shred the cabbage and chop the mushrooms, bell peppers, garlic, and green onions. It’s important to chop the vegetables finely to ensure they mix well with the tofu and bind together nicely in the patties.

2. Combine the Ingredients:

Mix the Tofu and Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled tofu, shredded cabbage, chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, garlic, and green onions. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Add the Eggs and Seasonings: Pour in the beaten eggs, followed by the corn starch, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. The eggs and corn starch will help bind the mixture, while the soy sauce and seasonings will infuse it with flavor.
Incorporate the Oil: Finally, add the 2 tablespoons of cooking oil to the mixture. This will add a bit of moisture and richness, helping to create tender, flavorful patties.

3. Form the Patties:

Shape the Mixture: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, round patties. Each patty should be about the size of your palm and about 1/2 inch thick. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a little more corn starch to help it bind better.

Prepare for Frying: Place the formed patties on a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the patties to firm up slightly before cooking.

4. Fry the Patties:

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat enough cooking oil over medium heat to cover the bottom of the pan. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of the mixture sizzles when added to the pan.
Cook the Patties: Carefully place the patties in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If necessary, fry the patties in batches, adding more oil to the pan as needed.

Drain Excess Oil: Once the patties are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Serving Suggestions:

These cabbage and tofu patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

As a Main Dish: Serve the patties with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a grain like quinoa or rice for a complete meal.

In a Sandwich or Wrap: Place the patties in a whole-grain bun or wrap with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado, for a delicious veggie burger.
As an Appetizer: Serve the patties with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a yogurt-based dip, as a tasty appetizer or snack.

Tips for Success:

Press the Tofu: For best results, press the tofu before crumbling it to remove as much moisture as possible. This will help the patties hold their shape better during cooking.

Chill the Mixture: If the mixture seems too wet or difficult to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes before forming the patties. This will make the mixture firmer and easier to work with.
Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables, such as grated carrots, spinach, or zucchini, to suit your taste and what you have on hand.

Possible Questions:

Can I bake these patties instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the patties in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This method is healthier and still gives you delicious results.

Can I freeze the patties? Absolutely! After forming the patties, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To cook, simply thaw and fry or bake as directed.
What can I use instead of tofu? If you prefer, you can substitute the tofu with a similar amount of cooked chickpeas or mashed beans for a different texture and flavor.

Conclusion:

Cabbage and tofu might not be the first ingredients you think of when craving something hearty and delicious, but this recipe proves that they can be transformed into something truly special. These patties are not only a fantastic meat alternative, but they’re also packed with nutrients, making them a great choice for a healthy meal. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this dish is sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation. So, the next time you’re looking for a meatless option, give these cabbage and tofu patties a try—you won’t be disappointed!