As someone who use to enjoy bacon, I've always struggled to find a truly satisfying meat-free alternative. That is, until I created this game-changing tofu bacon recipe. The combination of savory, smoky, and sweet flavors create a bacon-like taste that you will love.

This recipe is incredibly easy to make at home with just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need:

TOFU MARINADE INGREDIENTS:

Coconut Aminos - This soy sauce alternative provides the perfect savory base for the marinade
Vegan Worcestershire sauce - I typically purchase mine at Whole Foods or Kroger Family stores. Be sure to check the label to ensure it's plant-based.
Liquid smoke - This helps to achieve the authentic smoky bacon flavor we’re looking for.
Tomato paste
Maple syrup - A little sweetness to balance out the savory notes
Nutritional yeast - Gives the tofu a delicious umami flavor. I would suggest including this if you decide to give this recipe a try but I wouldn’t let it stop you from making it in case you can’t find it.
Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika - These spices take the marinade to the next level.
REMAINING INGREDIENTS:
Tofu (soy-based or soy-free) - I would suggest using either super firm tofu or fava bean tofu. If you use the suggested tofu, you do not need to press the tofu
Cooking oil (optional) - For spraying the tofu before baking.

Watch the full video of me making these tofu bacon bits here

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A post shared by Shakayla Felice (@sweetgreensvegan)

STEP 1: Whisk the ingredients for the marinade

STEP 2: Thinly slice the tofu. I suggest using a knife instead of the vegetable peeler. I think the vegetable peeler makes the strips entirely too thin, but it’s up to you which you prefer

STEP 3: Transfer the tofu and the marinade to a bag (here is the reusable bag I used) or container. Break into small bacon-bit like pieces and allow the tofu to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes

STEP 4: Transfer the tofu and the marinade to a greased baking sheet and bake in the oven, flipping halfway through.

You may need to bake the tofu in batches depending on how large your baking sheet is. Keep a close eye on the tofu to ensure it does not burn

STEP 5: Let cool and enjoy! Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week

If you give this recipe a try and be sure to let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment or tagging me on social media or leaving a review below!

Ingredients:

Tofu Marinade:

1/3 cup coconut aminos (or soy sauce)

1 tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce

2 tsp liquid smoke

2 tsp tomato paste

2 tsp maple syrup

1 tbsp nutritional yeast

1 1/2 tsp garlic powder

1 1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/4 cup water

Remaining Ingredients:

1 block super firm soy-based tofu or fava bean tofu

Spray olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: coconut aminos, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, tomato paste, maple syrup, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk until well incorporated.

Thinly slice the tofu into bacon-like strips. Transfer the tofu to the marinade and gently break apart into smaller, bacon bit-sized pieces. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spread the marinated tofu and marinade in a single layer onto a large, greased baking sheet.

Bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway, until crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, cooking in batches if needed.

Serve warm or cold and use these tofu bacon bits in pasta, spreads, dips, on salads, sandwiches, or wraps. The options are endless!