Officina Vegana Tofu Burger

This recipe with vary a bit from the burger we made at this lovely little vegan spot in Naples, but it has to since we are not making our own tofu. I also varied some ingredients for ease of prep.

Makes 3-4 burgers

Ingredient List:

• 12 ounces extra firm tofu
• 1 small shallot, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ¼ cup ground chia seeds
• ½ cup panko crumbs
• 2 teaspoons finely minced fresh garlic
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4-5 oil cured sun dried tomatoes, coarsely chopped
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• Cracked black pepper to taste

Step By Step Instructions:

Wrap tofu in a tea towel and gently squeeze it so excess moisture is absorbed into the towel.

In a food processor, pulse the shallot until finely chopped. Add tomato paste, bread crumbs, chia, garlic, paprika, sun-dried tomatoes, salt and pepper. Crumble tofu on top.

Pulse until it forms a thick dough. 

Divide mixture into burger size portions. Firmly press mixture into patties, about ½ inch thick and 3-4 inches wide.

Preheat oven to 350F and lightly oil a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake the patties for 20 minutes, turning carefully at the midway point of cooking, 10 minutes.

Before serving, lightly grill the patties in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or on a grill pan to give them some color and more flavor.

Serve as you desire or as you usually serve burgers. They’re great hot or cold.