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Miso Carbonara with Crispy Tofu Bacon

Miso Carbonara with Crispy Tofu Bacon
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Miso Carbonara with Crispy Tofu Bacon is a vegan pasta dish that combines the creamy richness of traditional carbonara with the savory depth of miso paste and the satisfying crunch of crispy tofu bacon. This comforting, dairy-free recipe is packed with umami flavors and textures, making it perfect for plant-based eaters and anyone seeking a fresh twist on classic comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crispy Tofu Bacon

  • 200g firm tofu
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp miso paste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch of liquid smoke (optional)

For the Pasta and Sauce

  • 200g pasta of choice (spaghetti or fettuccine recommended)
  • 1 cup plant-based cream
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 1 tbsp miso paste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt to taste (adjust with soy sauce if needed)

Additional Ingredients and Garnishes

  • Extra black pepper, for garnish
  • Fresh parsley, basil, or chives (optional)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • Olive oil or plant-based milk, for reheating (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tofu Bacon: Press the firm tofu to remove excess moisture, then slice it thinly. Marinate the slices in a mixture of soy sauce, miso paste, olive oil, garlic powder, and liquid smoke (if using). Pan-fry the tofu slices in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water to help loosen the sauce later. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
  3. Make the Miso Cream Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine plant-based cream, nutritional yeast, miso paste, black pepper, and onion powder. Warm gently over low heat while whisking continuously to form a smooth, thickened sauce. Adjust seasoning with soy sauce if more saltiness is required.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the miso cream sauce into the pot with the cooked pasta over low heat. Gradually add reserved pasta water, stirring to reach your preferred creaminess. Toss the pasta to ensure every strand is coated evenly with the sauce.
  5. Add Crispy Tofu Bacon and Serve: Fold the crispy tofu bacon into the sauced pasta carefully. Serve immediately, garnished with extra freshly cracked black pepper and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Press tofu well to remove excess moisture, which helps it crisp better when frying.
  • Reserve pasta water as it loosens the sauce without diluting flavor.
  • Start with small amounts of miso paste and adjust to avoid overpowering saltiness.
  • Ensure tofu bacon is cooked thoroughly for the best crunchy texture.
  • Use freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the classic carbonara flavor and deepen umami.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan pasta, miso carbonara, tofu bacon, plant-based carbonara, umami pasta, vegan comfort food, gluten-free pasta recipe

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/miso-carbonara-with-crispy-tofu-bacon/