Looking for a plant-based swap that delivers big on flavor and crunch? These Tofu Bacon Croutons are smoky, savory, and perfectly crisp, the ultimate topper for salads, soups, or, if like me, you’ll just snack on them straight from the pan.
Marinated in a simple mix of tamari, smoked paprika, and a touch of maple, these little cubes transform into bite-sized flavor bombs. Just like bacon bits! Easy to make, ridiculously satisfying, and 100% vegan, this is bacon’s healthier, happier cousin.
In the photo above and below, the left side is Tofu Bacon Croutons that have been small diced, versus the right side, which has been crumbled. I originally created these for my Dairy-Free Corn Chowder– it really finishes the soup!
Happy eating,
~Monique
Tofu Bacon Bits:
On the left is a small diced tofu.
On the right is crumbled.
There’s no right or wrong, just preference.
Tofu Bacon Croutons
Note: this makes a lot of croutons; the recipe can easily be halved.
1 block extra-firm tofu
4 tbls tamari
1 tbls olive or grapeseed oil
1 heaping tbls maple syrup
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp salt (can omit if adding miso)
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tsp miso, optional
Drain the tofu and wrap in a kitchen towel. Set something heavy on it to press out the extra moisture (this will help the tofu get crispy). Ideally, let that sit for at least 20 minutes.
After the tofu has been pressed, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Whisk together all the ingredients except the tofu.
There are two options for forming the croutons. I found that both options create similar results. The diced tofu was more consistently crisp and takes more knife skills, while the crumbled tofu was both crisp and chewy. It comes down to your preference for chew and look.
1. Small dice the tofu
2. Use your hands to crumble the tofu into small pieces
Toss the diced/crumbled tofu with the marinade. Pour onto a sheet pan, spread out so all the tofu is in a single layer.
Bake for 20 minutes, toss, and bake another 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool. The tofu will firm up as it cools. Depending on the size of your Tofu Bacon Croutons, timing may vary. Check the tofu after about 10 minutes to ensure it’s not burning.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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