TOFU AND KALE BURGER
The Tofu and Kale Burger is a nutrient-dense and plant-based option ideal for anyone looking for a healthy and high-fibre alternative to traditional burgers. This recipe combines crumbled firm tofu with fresh chopped Kale, chickpea flour for structure, a touch of soy sauce and garlic powder for savoury depth. It delivers a satisfying texture, soft inside with a golden crisp exterior, while remaining completely dairy-free and gluten-free. The blend of leafy greens and plant-based protein makes it an excellent choice for balanced and everyday meals. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients and is pan-fried to perfection in minutes. Serve it in a wholegrain bun, wrap or a lettuce leaf for a clean and complete lunch or dinner. Ideal for meal prep, this burger also stores and reheats well, giving you a quick and wholesome option anytime.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Main Course
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Asian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Pan-Fry, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner, Back to School, Picnic, Summer, Spring
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Wheat / Gluten-Free, High Fibre, Quick & Easy, Dairy-Free, Low Fat, Healthy
DISH TYPE
Hamburger
INGREDIENTS
These steps are followed for the preparation of Tofu and Kale Burger:
- ¼ cup firm tofu, crumbled
- ¼ cup chopped kale
- 1 tbsp chickpea flour
- ½ tsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp olive oil (for pan-frying)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION\
- Calories: 158.6 kcal
- Fat: 10.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Carbohydrate: 6 g
- Sugar: 0.7 g
- Sodium: 161.3 mg
- Protein: 12.7 g
- Calcium: 447.7 mg
- Iron: 2.1 mg
- Fiber: 2.4 mg
- Potassium: 237 mg
PREPARATION
There are the following ingredients for Tofu and Kale Burger:
- Crumble The Tofu: Place the firm tofu in a bowl and crumble it with your fingers or a fork until evenly broken down.
- Add Kale And Seasoning: Stir in chopped Kale, garlic powder and soy sauce. Mix well to combine flavours.
- Add Chickpea Flour: Add the chickpea flour and mix thoroughly. Let the mixture rest for 3–5 minutes so the flour binds the ingredients.
- Form The Patty: Shape the mixture into a compact burger patty. If it’s too moist, add a bit more chickpea flour.
- Heat The Pan: In a non-stick frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook The Burger: Place the patty in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and firm.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately in a bun, lettuce wrap or over a salad with your preferred toppings.
PREP TIME
6 minutes
COOKING TIME
8 minutes
TIPS
- Use Extra-Firm Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu helps to reduce excess moisture and holds shape better.
- Dry Tofu Well: Press tofu beforehand or pat dry to prevent a soggy mix.
- Chop Kale Finely: Finely chopped kale cooks evenly and blends better with the tofu.
- Rest Before Cooking: Allowing the patty mix to rest, which helps the chickpea flour bind the ingredients together.
- Cook On Medium Heat: This allows the burger to crisp without burning and ensures the Kale softens.
VARIATIONS
- Add Herbs: Stir in fresh coriander, parsley or chives for a fresh flavour twist.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chilli flakes or smoked paprika for extra heat.
- Zingy Version: Add ¼ tsp lemon juice or zest to brighten the overall flavour.
- Cheesy Flair: Mix in 1 tbsp nutritional yeast for a dairy-free and cheesy taste.
- Boost Protein: Add 1 tsp ground flaxseed or hemp hearts for extra plant-based protein.
- Bake Instead: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for an oil-free option.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Make Ahead: Prepare the burger mixture and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Refrigerate Cooked Patties: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze Uncooked Patties: Shape and freeze patties between parchment layers. Use within 1 month.
- Thawing & Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain texture.