Japanese Wafu Burger

4.3
(17)

These traditional Japanese hamburgers are eaten without a bun. Shiitake mushrooms and tofu make them moist without falling apart, and a mirin glaze adds extra flavor. Absolutely delicious! I like to eat these with cooked daikon (Japanese radish) and rice.

5
5
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Prep Time:
25 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
45 mins
Servings:
6
Yield:
6 servings
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

  • 1 (14 ounce) package firm tofu

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • ½ cup sliced shiitake mushrooms

  • 2 tablespoons miso paste

  • 1 egg, lightly beaten

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • ¼ cup mirin (Japanese sweet wine)

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon garlic paste

  • ¼ teaspoon minced fresh ginger root

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Directions

  1. Place the block of tofu onto a plate and place another plate on top. Set a 3 to 5 pound weight on top (a container filled with water works well). Press the tofu for 10 to 15 minutes, then drain off and discard the accumulated liquid. Cut the tofu into 1/2-inch cubes.

  2. Combine the tofu, ground beef, shiitake mushrooms, miso paste, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg in a large bowl. Divide into 6 balls, and flatten into patties.

  3. Stir together the mirin, soy sauce, garlic paste, and ginger in a small bowl. Set aside.

  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the burgers on each side, about 2 minutes per side. Reduce the heat to low; cover the pan and cook until the juices run clear, about 5 minutes. Drain and discard any excess grease.

  5. Pour the soy sauce mixture into the pan. Keep moving the pan so the sauce doesn't burn, and flip the burgers occasionally to coat both sides with the sauce. The sauce will thicken and create a shiny glaze on the burgers. When all the sauce has been used up, the burgers are ready.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

307 Calories
18g Fat
9g Carbs
26g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 6
Calories 307
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 18g 23%
Saturated Fat 5g 25%
Cholesterol 77mg 26%
Sodium 999mg 43%
Total Carbohydrate 9g 3%
Dietary Fiber 2g 8%
Total Sugars 4g
Protein 26g 51%
Vitamin C 1mg 1%
Calcium 470mg 36%
Iron 4mg 21%
Potassium 353mg 8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.