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!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

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)

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

Once pressed, slice the tofu into thin strips, approximately 1/8 inch thick, to mimic the size and shape of bacon strips.

Step 3

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.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

Repeat with the remaining tofu strips, adding the second tablespoon of olive oil as needed.

Step 8

Remove the tofu bacon from the skillet and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 9

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

Serving size	490.1 grams (490.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	691

Total Fat 32.10g	41%
Saturated Fat 4.80g	24%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3079mg	134%
Total Carbohydrate 41.10g	15%
Dietary Fiber 10.20g	36%
Total Sugars 22.50g
Protein 68.50g	137%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2721mg	209%
Iron 12mg	67%
Potassium 1316mg	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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 39.7%

Protein: 37.7%

Carbs: 22.6%