Air Fryer Vegan Pancetta
Looking for a bold, smoky, meaty flavor...but in a healthy way? This air fryer vegan pancetta is it! Made with seasoned tofu that has been air fried to perfection, this vegan pancetta is the perfect protein rich, crispy, chewy, smoky, meaty, plant-based alternative to pork Pancetta or bacon bits.
Equipment
- knife
- bowl
- tofu press optional
- air fryer can use oven to bake if needed
Ingredients
- block of extra firm tofu
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp liquid smoke can sub extra smoked paprika if desired
- 1/4 tsp smoke paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Start by pressing the tofu. To do this, place tofu in a tofu press for at least 10 minutes. If you do not have a tofu press, place tofu on a plate and press another plate on top of tofu. Then place a heavy object, such as a cast iron skillet on top of the plate. Let tofu press for at least 10 minutes.
- Once tofu has been pressed for a minimum of 10 minutes, chop tofu into small cubes about 1/4 inch by 1/4 inch.
- Place chopped tofu in a bowl and add the rest of the ingredients
- Mix until evenly covered. Allow to rest and marinate for a minimum of 10 minutes, but the longer the better.
- Once tofu has marinated place in a preheated air fryer. Cook at 375 degrees F for 5 minutes. Tofu will be finished cooking when outside is crispy.
- Serve with salad, pasta, soup and enjoy!
