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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 plant-based twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, combining creamy miso sauce with smoky, crispy tofu bacon for a rich umami flavor and delightful texture. This comforting yet innovative recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to create a wholesome, satisfying meal perfect for vegetarians and those seeking bold, adaptable flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

Tofu Bacon

  • 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Miso Sauce

  • 2 tbsp white miso paste
  • 1 cup plant-based milk or cream (e.g., oat, almond, soy)
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

To Finish

  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, vegan parmesan or grated Pecorino Romano

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tofu Bacon: Press the firm tofu to remove excess moisture, then crumble it into small pieces resembling bacon bits. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add the tofu pieces, and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Season with soy sauce and smoked paprika to replicate the smoky, salty bacon flavor.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until just al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta; this starchy water will help in creating a silky sauce.
  3. Make the Miso Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together white miso paste, plant-based milk or cream, nutritional yeast, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth. This will form a creamy, umami-rich sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
  4. Combine and Finish: Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat. Pour in the miso sauce and toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency. Stir in the crispy tofu bacon and gently heat through without boiling to maintain the creaminess.

Notes

  • Press tofu thoroughly to ensure maximum crispiness when frying.
  • Reserve pasta water to emulsify the sauce and achieve a silky texture.
  • Use good-quality, preferably unpasteurized and organic white miso for the richest umami flavor.
  • Keep sauce and pasta over low heat when combining to prevent sauce separation.
  • Top with fresh cracked black pepper right before serving to add authentic carbonara bite.

Nutrition

Keywords: Miso Carbonara, Tofu Bacon, Vegan Pasta, Plant-Based Carbonara, Umami Pasta, Crispy Tofu, Gluten-Free Pasta

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