For tofu lovers, these Thai-influenced burgers won’t disappoint. The heat of the grill actually amplifies the natural sweetness of the pineapple, making it a contender for one of the best burger toppings around.
2 - 350 g (12 oz) blocks extra-firm tofu, chopped
1/3 cup (80 mL) wheat germ
3 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup (60 mL) chopped cilantro
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp (10 mL) minced ginger
2 Tbsp (30 mL) reduced sodium soy sauce
1 Tbsp (15 mL) sesame oil
1 Tbsp (15 mL) sweet chili sauce or chili garlic sauce
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) curry powder
6 pineapple rings
Zest of 1 lime
1/4 tsp (1 mL) chili powder, or to taste
1/8 tsp (0.5 mL) sea salt
Grapeseed oil for grilling
6 whole grain buns (optional)
4 Tbsp (60 mL) hoisin sauce
Place tofu in food processor container; blend until pulverized and beginning to stick together. Add wheat germ, green onions, cilantro, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili sauce, and curry powder to container and pulse until everything is mixed together. Form mixture into 6 equal-sized patties.
Pat pineapple rings dry with paper towel and brush both sides with a light coating of oil. In small bowl, stir together lime zest, chili powder, and salt. Season both sides of pineapple with chili mixture.
Preheat grill to medium. Brush tofu burgers with oil and grill for 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Grill pineapple rings for 2 minutes per side, or until they have developed grill marks. If using buns, heat them on the grill for 1 minute, or until toasted.
Serve tofu burgers topped with hoisin sauce and grilled pineapple.
Serves 6.
Each serving contains: 220 calories; 13 g protein; 8 g total fat (1 g sat. fat, 0 g trans fat); 25 g total carbohydrates (13 g sugars, 3 g fibre); 412 mg sodium
source: "Veggie Burgers", alive #370, August 2013
Ever thought about making burgers as an appetizer or as a potluck meal for friends and family? Try making your favourite burger into bite-sized portions. They might be small in size, but they won’t be small in flavour. These burgers also pair well with a Greek salad for a delicious mid-week lunch or dinner. Fresh is best Squeeze fresh lemon on patties while cooking to give them the fresh zing of citrus.
What worldwide vacation is complete without a stop in Italy? Dad won’t miss the meat in this flavourful mushroom alternative complete with Italian spices and a zesty vegetable tapenade. Portobellos have a uniquely “meaty” texture and act as a sponge to lock in loads of flavour. This meaty plant-based burger is sure to become a favourite—even with any meat-lovers in your life. Custom-made! Don’t be afraid to customize your burger buns to fit your patties. If your bun’s too big, trim off excess and save the trimmed bits of bread, but don’t discard. Instead, cut into small cubes; drizzle with some olive oil, sea salt, and seasonings of choice; bake at 350 F (180 C) for 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll have delicious homemade croutons for use in soups and salads throughout the week.
Next stop, Asia! This shrimp burger combines classic Asian flavours with unique toppings for rich umami flavour with the saltiness of the ocean. Whether served on a bun or over rice in a more traditional Asian-style meal, try some unique miso yogurt or wasabi mayo dressing for a fabulous flavour bomb. Keep those burgers juicy Place raw patties on a plate or tray, and cover and freeze or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to keep them together and to lock in moisture.
While on your burger journey, visit Jamaica, where you’ll find the spicy jerk flavours native to this beautiful island. Maple syrup adds a unique, sticky sweetness, while fresh lime juice highlights the fresh, tangy flavours of the Caribbean. Try making your own jerk seasoning or purchase store-bought for an easy shortcut.