As veggie burgers begin to gain popularity around the globe, seasoned chefs have been experimenting with a wide range of meat substitutes. One such ingredient that almost gives the texture and the feel of meat is tofu. Being soy-based, it is a hit among vegans, too. Tofu is already a rich source of protein and has been used in several vegan dishes for decades. Tofu burgers are gaining popularity not just because they are environment-friendly but also because they can be easily prepared at home. But how good are tofu patties really when it comes to health and convenience? Do they have a place in the rapidly growing plant-based burger market? Read on to know more.
The Tofu Burger Market
The Tofu market, as a whole, is forecasted to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.2% between 2019 and 2025. Needless to say, the role of tofu burgers in the growth of the entire tofu market is one that cannot be underestimated. Tofu is a common choice among traditional veggie burger manufacturers owing to its easy availability and low cost. It is also one of the few ingredients that come closest to resembling meat in taste and structure. Apart from burgers, tofu is also commonly used by manufacturers of vegan hot dogs, sauces, ice creams, and desserts. Gluten-free brands such as Trader Joe’s in the US are keying into the latest surge in the demands of plant-based products and marketing their tofu-based options.
Why Tofu?
So, what is it about tofu that makes it a highly sought-after ingredient for plant-based burgers? The reasons come down to two main factors as outlined below.
Convenience
Tofu, traditionally an Asian staple, conquered the world through vegetarian and vegan diets. Made out of condensed soy milk, which is then pressed into solid blocks, very much like cheese making process, tofu makes a perfect addition or meat substitute to any flexitarian or vegan dish. Apart from possessing a texture that is similar to meat, tofu is also known for its flexibility when it comes to mixing with different flavors. This is one of the reasons tofu burgers are commonly made as a DIY alternative by home chefs. The tofu itself can be made at home or purchased at reasonable prices in blocks. You can top up a good tofu patty with almost any kind of leafy greens and soft vegetables. When handled right, tofu has excellent binding properties as well, so the result is always an easy-to-use burger patty that does not fall apart unlike many other traditional veggie burgers. Tofu burgers can be fried, baked, or grilled, all to the perfect taste and texture resembling a meat burger. An important component in Tofu is also a substance called Nigari. Once salt is extracted from brine, we are left with a mineral-rich coagulant used to keep tofu in its form.
Health Factor
Tofu is one of the few plant-based protein sources that comprises all nine essential amino acids. So, if you are thinking about vegan protein, tofu tops the list. It is also rich in iron, calcium, manganese, and phosphorous, among many other key minerals. Tofu is made from soy protein, which has been known to benefit those with high cholesterol levels. Although most of the tofu is made from soybeans that are genetically modified, organic or non-GMO versions of tofu are also available in the market. There is no clear indication yet as to whether non-GMO versions of tofu are healthier, but the rising popularity of non-GMO products, in general, has made these more accessible to consumers. Either way, the benefits of tofu remain whether it is a GMO version or not. Additionally, being vegan, they are friends of the environment.
Are Tofu Patties the Future?
The use of tofu in burgers and other plant-based meat alternatives is nothing new. Hence, it will not be surprising if it gains more popularity in the future, not just among vegans but also among meat lovers who are looking for a change of taste. It is a handy ingredient for meatless burger manufacturers to try and entice the meat-eating population, thanks to its meat-like texture. Although we don’t have pre-made or pre-packaged meatless patties made purely out of tofu, home made tofu patties have been a trend amongst vegans and even flexitarians. As several meat-eaters are permanently switching to vegan products and participating in the vegan revolution in general, tofu burgers might soon be thriving as a regular in more burger joints as well as in home-barbecue parties.