Tofu Bacon Recipe
If you’re looking for a plant-based twist on bacon that’s smoky, crispy, and downright delicious, you’re in the right place! No need to sacrifice great taste or ethics when you have vegan bacon on the table. This recipe uses simple ingredients like soy sauce, maple syrup, and liquid smoke to bring that classic bacon flavor to life. Plus, with this extra-firm tofu bacon recipe, you get a chewy texture that crisps up beautifully in the oven or pan.
Making tofu bacon at home is quick, easy, and fun! In just about 30 minutes, you can have a batch of crispy, savory strips ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for sandwiches, breakfast plates, or even as a crunchy salad topping.
Thankfully, it’s easy to enjoy this very same sensation with plant-based, pork-free ingredients. This tofu bacon recipe is made from tofu (of course!) and basic seasonings found in most pantries, you won’t believe just how easy it is to make!
Why You’ll Love This Plant-Based Bacon Recipe
This savory tofu bacon recipe is smoky, crispy, and full of flavor! It’s easy to customize and comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re adding it to sandwiches or serving it with breakfast, this plant-based bacon is sure to impress!
- Smoky and Savory Flavor. Tofu bacon delivers that irresistible smoky, salty, and slightly sweet flavor you love. Seasonings like liquid smoke, soy sauce, and maple syrup work together to create a delicious umami punch.
- Super Crispy Texture. With the right technique, tofu bacon turns out wonderfully crispy. Thinly sliced tofu and a hot pan or oven give you that satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Perfect for Any Meal. Tofu bacon is incredibly versatile! Use it in a classic BLT, crumble it over salads, or serve it alongside pancakes for a satisfying breakfast.
- Quick and Easy to Make. This recipe comes together in no time. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of smoky, crispy goodness ready to enjoy.
- A Healthier Bacon Alternative. Packed with plant-based protein and none of the cholesterol, tofu bacon is a guilt-free way to enjoy a bacon-like treat. Delicious and healthier? Yes, please!
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Making tofu bacon is all about the right balance of flavors and textures. From smoky seasonings to the perfect tofu type, each ingredient plays a key role in getting that savory crunch. Check out these ingredient tips and easy swaps to make your tofu bacon just the way you like it!
- Oil: Helps the tofu get crispy and golden when cooked. It also enhances the flavor of the other ingredients. Just a little is needed. Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. For a richer taste, try olive oil or avocado oil. If you want less oil, a quick spray of cooking oil can also work.
- Tofu: Use super or extra-firm tofu for the best texture. Anything softer will become crumbly or mushy. Seek out vacuum-sealed packages that have less water in them for best results. Press it well to remove excess water before marinating. When sliced thin, it mimics the texture of traditional bacon, getting crispy on the edges while staying chewy in the middle. If you want a slightly different texture, try nutty tempeh or rice paper as alternatives.
- Soy Sauce: Adds that essential salty, umami flavor that makes tofu bacon taste savory and rich. It helps balance the sweetness of the maple syrup. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. Adjust the amount to control the saltiness to your liking.
- Maple Syrup: Brings a hint of sweetness that complements the smoky and salty flavors. It also helps the tofu caramelize while cooking, adding a nice crispiness. Agave syrup or brown sugar can work if you’re out of maple syrup. For a deeper flavor, you can try molasses, but use it sparingly since it’s stronger.
- Liquid Smoke: Gives tofu bacon that signature smoky flavor, making it taste like traditional bacon. Just a few drops make a big difference! If you don’t have liquid smoke, try smoked paprika or a splash of smoked soy sauce. For a milder option, a bit of barbecue sauce can add a smoky touch.
How To Make Bacon From Tofu
Making tofu bacon is simple and fun! With just a few ingredients like soy sauce, maple syrup, and liquid smoke, you can create smoky, crispy strips of goodness in no time. Follow these easy steps to make a delicious plant-based bacon that’s perfect for any meal!
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu – Preheat the oven to 400°F and coat a 9×9-inch baking pan with oil. Slice the tofu block in half lengthwise, then cut into thin strips (about ⅛-inch thick). Place the tofu strips in the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 2: Make the Sauce – While the tofu bakes, mix soy sauce, water, maple syrup, and liquid smoke in a small bowl.
Finally, Step 3: Bake with the Sauce – After the tofu has baked, pour the sauce over the tofu and return it to the oven. Bake for 10 more minutes, flip, and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Let the tofu bacon cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Tips and Suggestions for Tofu Bacon
Tofu bacon is a smoky, savory twist on a plant-based favorite. It’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, or even as a crispy breakfast side. These serving tips will help you make the most of this delicious and versatile treat!
- BLT or BLAT Sandwich: In case you’re not familiar with the concept, let me spell it out for you. That’s a bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich with optional avocado. Simple and classic, it always hits the spot.
- Tofu scramble or Eggless Omelet: There’s nothing like the smell of bacon in the morning! It’s a natural match with any eggy dish, especially.
- Waffles or Pancakes: If you wake up with more of a sweet tooth, tofu bacon can still make a great addition. Serve alongside your favorite fluffy vegan pancakes or homemade vegan waffles, with plenty of extra maple syrup.
- Salad or Grain bowl: Veg out with a leafy green salad or a hearty warm grain bowl. Chop up the tofu into bite-sized pieces for even coverage.
- Mac and Cheese: Add some crunch to a big bowlful of cheesy noodles, not to mention an extra serving of protein, with diced tofu bacon.
- Loaded Baked Potatoes: Once baked to fork-tender perfection, scoop out the insides of baked potatoes and mash them with vegan butter or dairy-free sour cream, scallions, and vegan shredded cheese. Top it all off with a generous handful of tofu bacon for a crunchy, savory bite. Tastes just as delicious with baked sweet potatoes, too!
- Popcorn: Snack happy by popping up a treat with real staying power! Pop popcorn kernels in coconut oil for that authentic movie theater flavor. Toss with salt and big pieces of tofu bacon before digging in.
- Ice Cream Sundae: It may sound strange, but it tastes amazing! Crumble some tofu bacon over your favorite scoop to both heighten and add depth to that sweet experience.
FAQs
While tofu is the main ingredient here, you’ll be happy to know that there is, in fact, an alternative to soy-based tofu now! You can try homemade lentil tofu. Or for a store-bought option, try Pumfu. It’s made from pumpkin seeds. Swap the soy sauce for coconut aminos, and you’ll be good to go.
If you don’t want to heat up the whole oven, the air fryer is a great option. You’ll need to cook it in two or three batches, since it’s a smaller space. Arrange the tofu in a single layer and cook at 400 degrees for 15 – 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check frequently to make sure it doesn’t burn.
Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. That tiny bit of oil barely adds any measurable fat to each serving and makes sure the edges get nice and crispy. If you don’t mind having softer slices, make sure you line the baking dish with parchment paper to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight zip top bag in the fridge, tofu bacon will keep for up to a week. To reheat, toss it back into the oven at 350 for 5 – 8 minutes, or the air fryer at 370 degrees for 3 – 5 minutes, until crispy and hot.
More Recipes for Homemade Meat Alternatives
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Easy Tofu Bacon Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon canola or vegetable oil
- 1 16-ounce block extra-firm tofu, pressed (we highly recommend vacuum-sealed tofu)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- ½ tablespoon liquid smoke
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a 9 × 9inch baking pan with the oil.
- Cut the tofu block in half lengthwise (you will be using only half, so return the other portion to the fridge to use in another recipe). Cut the tofu lengthwise into thin strips about ⅛-inch thick, or as thinly as possible. Optionally, you may then cut these strips in half lengthwise. Place the tofu in the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes. Flip and bake for 5 more minutes.
- While the tofu is baking, in a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, water, maple syrup, and liquid smoke.
- Remove the pan from the oven and pour the liquid blend over the tofu. Return the tofu to the oven, bake for 10 minutes, flip, and bake for 5 more minutes. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.
Notes
- Storing Tofu Bacon: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight zip top bag in the fridge. This tofu bacon will keep for up to a week. To reheat, toss it back into the oven at 350 for 5 – 8 minutes, or the air fryer at 370 degrees for 3 – 5 minutes, until crispy and hot.
- Air Fryer Alternative: If you don’t want to heat up the whole oven, the air fryer is a great option. You’ll need to cook it in two or three batches, since it’s a smaller space. Arrange the tofu in a single layer and cook at 400 degrees for 15 – 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check frequently to make sure it doesn’t burn.
Nutrition
This tofu bacon recipe was excerpted from The Friendly Vegan Cookbook by Michelle Cehn and Toni Okamoto, published by Benbella Books.
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Leave a Comment
Tofu bacon!! That’s super interesting, definitely going to give this a try!
This is such a great recipe! Tofu bacon…yes!!
Yum! This looks amazing! Can’t wait to try it!
I absolutely LOVE this bacon! 😀
This tofu bacon is the best! Sooo good!
So easy and delicious. The liquid smoke is amazing and transforms the ever versatile tofu to another level.
I’d never heard of tofu bacon before this recipe. I love how simple and delicious it is to make.
What a delicious recipe! This is the best vegan bacon I’ve ever had!
my kind of sandwich! the flavor and texture was on point. so good!
This smoky tofu recipe is wonderful. I use it all the time to make my rice bowls or even tacos
I never had bacon for the longest time and so glad I found this tofu bacon recipe. Its way better and easy to prepare too.
this tofu bacon is the best! perfect on sandwiches and in wraps. love it!!
wow i love this tofu bacon! it was easy to make. what a filling meal.
Delicious tofu meal. So healthy and simple recipe but also very tasteful, thanks!