Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Veggie & Oat Tofu Burgers?
They are a healthy alternative to traditional burgers made with fresh vegetables, hearty oats, and protein-packed tofu, suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Are these tofu burgers vegan?
Yes, the recipe uses ingredients like tofu, vegetables, oats, and nutritional yeast, making it both vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 8 servings, yielding 8 evenly-sized patties.
What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using a 12 1/3 ounce package of either firm tofu or extra firm tofu.
What kind of rice should be used?
You should use 1 cup of cooked brown rice for the burger mixture.
Can I substitute Braggs liquid aminos?
Yes, you can use soy sauce as a substitute for Braggs liquid aminos.
Do I need to cook the vegetables before mixing?
Yes, you should sauté the finely chopped onion, grated carrot, chopped celery, and grated zucchini in olive oil until the onion is translucent.
What size should the patties be?
The mixture should be shaped into 8 patties, each approximately 3 1/2 to 4 inches in diameter.
What is the oven temperature for baking?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking the patties.
How long do the burgers take to bake?
The burgers bake for 15 minutes on one side, then an additional 20 minutes after flipping, for a total of 35 minutes.
How should I prepare the baking sheet?
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the burgers from sticking.
Can these burgers be frozen?
Yes, these burgers freeze well, making them an excellent option for meal prep or quick future lunches.
Can I eat these burgers cold?
Yes, these burgers are versatile and taste great whether they are served hot or cold.
What vegetables are required for the base?
The base includes onion, carrot, celery, and zucchini (or summer squash).
What type of oats are used?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of quick oats.
What is the purpose of nutritional yeast in this recipe?
Nutritional yeast flakes are added to provide a savory, slightly cheesy flavor to the veggie mixture.
What spices provide the flavor profile?
The flavor comes from garlic powder, cumin powder, cayenne powder, and all-purpose vegetable seasoning.
How do I incorporate the tofu into the mixture?
Drain the tofu and crumble it into the vegetable and rice mixture, then use a fork to mash it until well incorporated.
How do I coat the patties?
Coat each patty with breadcrumbs on both sides before placing them on the baking sheet.
Why should I spray the patties with cooking spray?
Spraying the tops of the patties with cooking spray helps promote even browning during the baking process.
How long should the burgers rest after baking?
Allow the patties to sit for about 5 minutes before serving to help them firm up.
Can I use summer squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, the recipe allows for either grated zucchini or grated summer squash.
Are these burgers suitable for picnics?
Yes, because they can be eaten cold and are easy to pack, they are a convenient picnic food.
What are some serving suggestions?
You can serve them in a bun as a traditional burger or as an entrée paired with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Is there any oil in the patty mixture itself?
No, olive oil is only used to sauté the vegetables; the patties are then baked.
How much cayenne powder is used?
The recipe uses 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne powder for a hint of warmth.
What provides the moisture to bind the ingredients?
A mixture of 1/2 cup water and Braggs liquid aminos (or soy sauce) provides the necessary moisture.
How much vegetable seasoning is needed?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of all-purpose vegetable seasoning.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, the burgers are ideal for meal prep as they can be made in advance, frozen, and eaten for quick lunches.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to sauté the finely chopped onion, grated carrot, celery, and zucchini in 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.