These Ham-Style Tofu Deli Meat Slices are made with thin slices of tofu simmered in a smoky, savory marinade until perfectly tender and flavorful. Great for meal prepping easy vegan lunches throughout the week!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Tofu: For a meaty texture that holds up to slicing, use extra-firm tofu or super firm tofu. Softer varieties tend to crumble and won’t work as well here.
- Broth: We recommend using vegan beef broth for the best savory flavor, but a store-bought or homemade vegetable broth works great, too.
- Tomato paste: Adds a rich, umami flavor and gives these ham slices a more authentic color.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a bright tanginess that balances the sweetness in the maple syrup and overall savory flavor profile.
- Nutritional yeast: Optional, but adds additional umami flavor that helps to mimic the richness of cured meat.
- Soy sauce: Provides necessary saltiness and additional depth of flavor. If you are gluten-free, opt for tamari. Avoid coconut aminos – it is not salty enough!
- Liquid smoke: Key for that smoky, “baked ham” flavor. A little goes a long way but makes a huge difference in the final flavor.
- Spices: A simple blend of cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper builds a savory flavor profile and adds additional color to the tofu “ham” slices.
- Beet powder: Naturally contributes to the pinkish hue and mimics the look of real ham.
- Maple syrup: A touch of sweetness balances the savory, salty flavors and helps to add a nice glaze!
How to Make Ham-Style Tofu Deli Meat Slices
- Press the tofu if necessary. If you’re using super firm tofu, it’s already been pressed, so additional pressing isn’t needed. Extra-firm tofu requires pressing to release excess moisture. If you don’t own a tofu press, check out our favorite way to Press Tofu without a Tofu Press.
- Slice the tofu. You can use a vegetable peeler, a sharp knife, or a mandoline. Feel free to slice the tofu as thin or as thick as you like.
- Make the tofu marinade. Combine all ingredients except the tofu and oil for cooking in a large bowl. Mix until uniform.
- Transfer to the skillet. Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. Lay out the tofu in an even layer and pour over the marinade.
- Simmer for 20 minutes. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and cook for 20 minutes.
- Cool completely, then enjoy! Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Enjoy immediately or store in the refrigerator with any remaining marinade. Enjoy!
Find the full printable recipe here: Ham-Style Tofu Deli Meat Slices
