Masala-Tofu Burger | Made by Meaghan Moineau
# Masala-Tofu Burger: A Flavorful Fusion Delight
## A Wholesome and Spicy Vegan Alternative
If you're looking to spice up your burger game with a healthy, vegan twist, the Masala-Tofu Burger is your answer. This vibrant dish combines the hearty goodness of tofu with the rich, aromatic spices of an Indian kitchen. Perfect for a weekend treat or a summer cookout, this burger is sure to impress family and friends alike. Let's dive into this culinary adventure that beautifully marries flavors and cultures.
### Ingredients You'll Need
- **White Onion:** Shopping list
- **Diced Red/Orange/Green Bell Pepper:** Shopping list
- **Frozen Peas-Carrots Mix:** Shopping list
- **Green Chilies:** Shopping list
- **Tofu:** Shopping list
- **Diced Potato:** Boiled
- **Garlic:** Shopping list
- **Black Mustard Seeds:** Shopping list
- **Curry Leaves:** Shopping list
- **Hing (Asafoetida):** Shopping list
- **Cumin Powder:** Shopping list
- **Turmeric:** Shopping list
- **Lemon:** Shopping list
- **Salt:** Shopping list
- **Cilantro:** Washed and finely chopped, shopping list
- **Indian Breadcrumbs:** Shopping list
- **Vegetable Oil:** Shopping list
- **PAM Original Flavor Spray:** Shopping list
- **Red/White Onion:** For garnish
- **Beefsteak Tomatoes:** Sliced for garnish
- **Mint-Cilantro Chutney Spread:** Shopping list
- **Portuguese Rolls:** Shopping list
### Cooking Instructions
1. **Prepare the Skillet:**
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, spray a generous amount of PAM and add vegetable oil.
- Add black mustard seeds and sauté for 30 seconds until you hear popping noises.
- Carefully add curry leaves, as they will splatter in the hot oil.
2. **Cook the Vegetables:**
- Add diced onions and bell peppers; sweat them for about 30 seconds.
- Add chopped garlic, green chilies, and turmeric. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until onions and peppers are soft.
- Add the peas-carrots mix, cumin powder, and salt. Cook for another 7-10 minutes until all veggies are soft.
3. **Marinate the Tofu:**
- In a small bowl, combine cubed tofu with a pinch of turmeric, cumin powder, coarse black pepper, and cayenne pepper (optional). Set aside to marinate.
4. **Combine and Cook:**
- Add marinated tofu to the skillet and cook until slightly browned and crumbly.
- Squeeze juice from half a lemon and add half of the chopped cilantro. Mix well.
- Add diced boiled potatoes and toss until everything is coated. Taste for salt and spices.
- Mash the mixture until mushy and veggies are small. Set aside to cool.
5. **Form the Patties:**
- Once cooled, add breadcrumbs and mix with your hands.
- Form into four thick patties. If needed, add more breadcrumbs for consistency.
- Place patties on a plate and wrap with plastic wrap until ready to use.
6. **Cook the Patties:**
- In a small skillet sprayed with PAM over medium-high heat, cook each patty for about 2 minutes on each side until browned and crispy.
- Simultaneously, sauté thick slices of onion until charred and slightly soft.
7. **Assemble the Burger:**
- Spread a generous amount of mint-cilantro chutney on each side of the Portuguese rolls.
- Place the tofu patty, charred onions, tomato slices, and fresh cilantro leaves between the buns.
- Serve with a slice of lemon and reduced-fat chips on the side.
### A Nostalgic Family Memory
Growing up, Sundays were special in our family. My grandmother would gather us around her cozy kitchen, the air filled with a medley of spices and laughter. She had a knack for transforming simple ingredients into magical dishes, and her Masala-Tofu Burger was a family favorite. We would eagerly form an assembly line, each adding our own touch to the burgers. The final product was always met with cheers and anticipation, as we savored the deliciously spiced patty nestled between soft, fresh rolls. Even today, as I recreate this dish in my own kitchen, I am transported back to those cherished moments of family and flavor.
### Difficulty Level
- **Difficulty:** 6/10
- **Classification:** Main Dish
This Masala-Tofu Burger is a delightful blend of spices and textures, perfect for those looking to explore new culinary territories. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a rewarding experience with every bite. Enjoy the memories and flavors that come with this unique twist on a classic favorite!