The Best Ever Tofu Bacon
Crispy, smoky, and slightly sweet, *The Best Ever Tofu Bacon* is a plant-based game-changer that’s perfect for vegans and bacon lovers alike. Crafted from extra-firm tofu, this recipe transforms simple ingredients like soy sauce, maple syrup, and liquid smoke into a bold, smoky marinade that infuses each strip with irresistible flavor. Sliced thin and pan-fried to golden perfection, these tofu bacon strips deliver the perfect balance of crunch and chewiness. Perfect as a topping for sandwiches, salads, or breakfast dishes, this easy recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or laid-back brunches. Whether you’re looking for a healthier bacon alternative or a new way to enjoy tofu, this recipe guarantees delicious results with every bite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 block (approximately 14 oz) Extra-firm tofu
- 3 tablespoons Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1.5 tablespoons Maple syrup
- 1.5 teaspoons Liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon Apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (or other neutral cooking oil)
Instructions
Press the tofu to remove excess water. Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, and place a heavy object, like a skillet, on top. Let it press for 10-15 minutes.
Once pressed, slice the tofu into thin strips, approximately 1/8 inch thick, to mimic the size and shape of bacon strips.
In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. This will be your marinade.
Arrange the tofu strips in a single layer in the dish, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes. For more flavor, marinate for up to 1 hour in the refrigerator, flipping the strips halfway through.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Working in batches if necessary, carefully lay the marinated tofu strips in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, or until golden and crispy, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Repeat with the remaining tofu strips, adding the second tablespoon of olive oil as needed.
Remove the tofu bacon from the skillet and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve immediately as a topping for sandwiches, salads, or breakfast dishes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
691 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 32.1 g | 41% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.8 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3079 mg | 134% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 41.1 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.2 g | 36% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.5 g | ||
| Protein | 68.5 g | 137% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2721 mg | 209% | |
| Iron | 12.1 mg | 67% | |
| Potassium | 1316 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
