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Scarborough Fair Tofu Burger

These Scarborough fair tofu burgers offer a fragrant and savoury plant-based alternative to traditional patties. Inspired by the classic herbal quartet of parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme, this recipe transforms extra-firm tofu and textured vegetable protein into a satisfying, high-protein meal. The addition of sunflower and pumpkin seeds provides a lovely crunch, while the flaxseed ensures the burgers hold their shape perfectly during cooking.

As a diabetes-friendly option, these burgers are baked rather than fried to keep them light and heart-healthy. This cooking method helps the herbaceous flavours to develop fully without the need for excess oil. Serve them in a wholemeal bun with fresh salad leaves and a dollop of creamy soured cream or houmous for a nutritious, balanced dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

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Ingredients for Scarborough Fair Tofu Burger

  • 1 tablespoon (2 g) dried parsley

  • 1 tablespoon (2 g) dried sage

  • 1 tablespoon (2 g) dried rosemary

  • 1 tablespoon (2 g) dried thyme

  • 350g (340 g) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed

  • 240ml (96 g) TVP granules

  • 240ml (235 ml) vegetable broth

  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) minced garlic

  • 40ml (19 g) ground flaxseed mixed with

  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) water

  • 60ml (32 g) hulled sunflower seeds

  • 35g (32 g) hulled pumpkin seeds

  • Salt and pepper

How to make Scarborough Fair Tofu Burger

Grind the parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme into a fine powder. I use a coffee grinder for this.

In a mixing bowl, crumble the tofu and mix well with the spice mixture so that the herbs are well infused with the tofu. Let sit for the flavours to meld.

In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the TVP granules and the broth, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and microwave for 5 to 6 minutes. Alternatively, bring the broth to a boil, pour over the TVP, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes.

When cool enough to handle, add the TVP to the tofu mixture, then add the minced garlic, flaxseed mixture, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix with your hands until all the ingredients are very well incorporated. The mixture will be nice and smooth, and should form lovely burgers. Shape into 6 patties. Refrigerate until ready to cook, although refrigeration isn't necessary if you plan on cooking them right away.

I recommend baking these rather than frying. It just seems that this burger is too healthy to fry. Preheat the oven to 177°C (180°C, or gas mark 4) and line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone baking mat. Bake, covered with a foil tent, for 15 minutes per side.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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