If there’s one thing everyone can agree on, it’s bacon. And while the best source of bacon is up for debate, we like to think plant-based versions take first place. Not only are they easy to make from scratch, but they have significantly less saturated fat than normal bacon, which is always a plus.
One of our favorite vegan bacon substitutes is this tofu bacon recipe. Featuring maple syrup, low-sodium soy sauce, and liquid smoke, this protein-packed dish is a must for your rotation. Here’s how to make it!
Table of Contents
How to Make Tofu Bacon
You will need:
- extra-firm tofu
- low-sodium soy sauce
- liquid smoke
- maple syrup
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- paprika
- ground black pepper
- high-heat neutral oil (like safflower oil)
Before starting the recipe, press the tofu to remove excess moisture. To do so, place the tofu between two clean cloth towels. You can also use two sheets of paper towels, folded into quarters to increase the thickness.
Place a heavy object, like a cast-iron pan or heavy book, on top of the tofu. (I like to add a small cutting board on top of the tofu before adding the heavy object. The cutting board provides a flat, even surface.) Let sit for 20 to 30 minutes.
Once the tofu is pressed, cut into 1/8- to 1/4-inch slices.
In a small bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Mix well.
Place the tofu in a shallow dish or pan, arranging the pieces into a single, even layer. You may need to use multiple pans, depending on the sizes. (If possible, use a baking dish with a fitted air-tight cover.)
Pour the marinade over the tofu. If using more than one dish, be sure to evenly disperse the marinade.
Let sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight, if possible. If you’re in a rush, 30 minutes works just fine. Flip the tofu halfway through; if you’re taking the overnight route, simply flip the tofu one or two times during that time span.
Preheat the oven to 400° Fahrenheit. Transfer the marinated tofu to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking sheet. Brush the leftover marinade on the tofu, then bake for 20 minutes.
Carefully flip the tofu and brush the rest of the marinade. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until crispy and slightly browned.
Tip: During the last 5 to 8 minutes, check the tofu frequently to make sure it doesn’t burn.
Depending on the thickness of your slices, as well as your oven, you might need more or less time.
Serve on sandwiches (like this vegan BLT sandwich) or with a vegan chickpea omelette.
Easy Tofu Bacon
Ingredients
- 16 ounces extra-firm tofu pressed
- ½ cup soy sauce low-sodium
- ½ tablespoon liquid smoke plus 1/2 tablespoon for smokier flavor
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons high-heat neutral oil like safflower oil
Instructions
- Cut the tofu into 1/8- to 1/4-inch slices. In a small bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Mix well.
- Place the tofu in a shallow dish or pan, arranging the pieces into a single, even layer. You may need to use multiple pans. (If possible, use a baking dish with a fitted air-tight cover.) Pour the marinade over the tofu. If using more than one dish, be sure to evenly disperse the marinade.
- Cover and let sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight, if possible. If you’re in a rush, 30 minutes works just fine. Flip the tofu halfway through; if you’re taking the overnight route, simply flip the tofu one or two times during that time span.
- Preheat the oven to 400° Fahrenheit. Transfer the tofu to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking sheet. Brush the leftover marinade on the tofu, then bake for 20 minutes. Carefully flip the tofu and brush the rest of the marinade. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until crispy and slightly browned. You may need more or less time, depending on your oven and thickness of the slices.
Notes
- During the last 5 to 8 minutes of baking, check the tofu frequently to make sure it doesn’t burn.
- Nutritional information for this tofu bacon recipe is a rough estimate automatically calculated by the Spoonacular food database.
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