Lemon Dill Tofu Burgers

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Absolutely! Here’s a long, flavor-packed, plant-powered recipe for Lemon Dill Tofu Burgers—a fresh, zesty, herbaceous spin on veggie burgers that are satisfying, high in protein, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Lemon Dill Tofu Burgers

Category: Plant-Based / Protein-Packed Burgers

Yields: 4–6 burgers

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 10–15 minutes

Total Time: ~40 minutes

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Flavor Profile: Bright, herby, savory, citrusy with a tender inside and crisp outer crust

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These burgers are made with crumbled tofu, fresh lemon zest, and plenty of dill and herbs, creating a light yet satisfying patty that’s bursting with flavor. They’re perfect on a toasted bun with creamy sauce and crunchy toppings—or served bun-less over salad or grain bowls.

Ingredients

For the Tofu Burgers:

  • 14 oz (400g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed
  • ½ cup rolled oats (or breadcrumbs)
  • ¼ cup finely chopped onion or shallot
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 2 tsp dried dill)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for cooking)
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for umami boost)
  • ¼ tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
  • ½ tsp salt, or to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1–2 tbsp chickpea flour, oat flour, or all-purpose flour (as binder)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 2 tbsp sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts for texture
  • 1 tsp capers or chopped green olives for brininess
  • ¼ cup grated carrot or zucchini (squeeze dry)

For Serving:

  • Whole grain buns or lettuce wraps
  • Lemon dill sauce (recipe below)
  • Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, cucumber slices, red onion, sprouts, avocado

Lemon Dill Sauce (Optional but Recommended)

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup plant-based yogurt (or regular Greek yogurt)
  • 1 tbsp vegan mayo or tahini
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced or grated
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Whisk all ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Chill until ready to serve—it gets better after 20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Press and Prep the Tofu (10 minutes)

  1. Drain tofu and wrap it in a clean towel. Place a heavy object on top (like a pan) and press for 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Alternatively, use a tofu press.

Step 2: Make the Burger Mixture (10 minutes)

  1. Crumble the tofu into a large bowl using your hands or a fork—it should resemble fine curds or soft breadcrumbs.
  2. Add oats, onion, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, parsley, mustard, olive oil, nutritional yeast (if using), turmeric, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or clean hands. The mixture should be cohesive but slightly sticky.
  4. Add 1–2 tablespoons of flour as needed to bind.

Step 3: Rest the Mixture (Optional but Helpful)

  • Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to allow oats and flavors to absorb.
  • You can also chill it up to a day ahead.

Step 4: Shape the Patties (5 minutes)

  1. Divide the mixture into 4–6 portions depending on your desired size.
  2. Shape each into a 3/4-inch-thick patty. Flatten gently to ensure even cooking.
  3. If the mixture feels too soft, dust with a little flour on the outside to help crisp.

Step 5: Cook the Patties (10–12 minutes)

Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat 1–2 tbsp olive oil in a nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and firm to touch.

Baking Option:

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place patties on a lined baking sheet.
  • Brush lightly with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Air Fryer Option:

  • Spray with oil and cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve!

Build your burger:

  • Toasted bun (or lettuce wrap)
  • Add sauce
  • Stack with fresh veggies
  • Top with extra dill or lemon zest for brightness

Serving Ideas:

  • With a side salad (cucumber-dill, arugula, or tabbouleh)
  • In pita bread with greens and tahini
  • As sliders for appetizers
  • On a grain bowl with quinoa, veggies, and tahini lemon dressing

Storage Tips:

  • Fridge: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days
  • Freezer: Freeze uncooked or cooked patties with parchment in between layers for up to 2 months
  • Reheat: Pan-fry, bake, or air fry to re-crisp before serving

Tips for Success:

  • Extra-firm tofu holds together best
  • Don’t over-blend—keep some texture
  • Chill before cooking if mixture is too soft
  • Use fresh herbs and real lemon for the brightest flavor

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