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Crispy Vegan Bacon Bits from Tofu Recipe

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4.3 from 7 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: About 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This delicious and versatile recipe for Tofu Bacon Bits offers a plant-based, smoky, and crispy alternative to traditional bacon. Made with super firm tofu marinated in a blend of umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce, liquid smoke, nutritional yeast, and smoked paprika, then baked to perfection. These bacon bits add a flavorful crunch to salads, pasta, soups, or baked potatoes, making them perfect for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

Tofu Bacon Bits

  • 1 lb. Super Firm Tofu (Vacuum Packed)

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup Neutral Oil (Vegetable, Canola, Avocado etc.)
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (use Tamari for Gluten-Free)
  • 2 tsp Liquid Smoke
  • 1 Tbsp Sriracha (optional for heat)
  • 3 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast
  • 2 tsp MSG (optional for umami)
  • 2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 2 tsp Smoked Paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready by the time your tofu is marinated and prepared.
  2. Prepare the marinade: Whisk together the neutral oil, soy sauce, liquid smoke, sriracha (if using), nutritional yeast, MSG (optional), garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a large bowl. This mixture will infuse the tofu with smoky, savory flavors.
  3. Prepare the tofu: Depending on your preferred texture, slice the super firm tofu thinly using a mandolin or sharp knife, then cut into bite-sized squares. For irregular, chewy and crispy bits, crumble the tofu by hand. For the crunchiest texture, shred the tofu using the large holes of a cheese grater.
  4. Marinate the tofu: Add the prepared tofu pieces to the marinade bowl and stir well to coat all pieces evenly, allowing the flavors to penetrate.
  5. Bake the tofu: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the tofu in a single layer. Bake for 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Remove the sheet and toss the tofu to redistribute, then bake for an additional 10 minutes. Flip and bake 1-2 more times, checking every 5 minutes to prevent burning. The tofu will crisp further as it cools.
  6. Serve and store: Enjoy the tofu bacon bits immediately as a topping or snack. Alternatively, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  7. Usage suggestions: These bacon bits make excellent toppings for twice baked potatoes or potato soup, adding a smoky, crispy texture and flavor boost.

Notes

  • Use Super Firm Tofu for the best results; it has very low water content, eliminating the need for pressing and crisps up faster.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
  • Adjust sriracha quantity to your heat preference or omit if you prefer no spice.
  • Check tofu frequently during baking to avoid burning, as oven temperatures vary.
  • Marinating longer can enhance the flavor absorption.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/crispy-vegan-bacon-bits-from-tofu-recipe/