This post may contain affiliate links. Read Simple Veganizer disclosure policy.
If you are searching for a plant-based option to satisfy your desire for a meaty texture in your meals, try the Tofu Ground Beef recipe!
This versatile ingredient is made from protein-packed vegan tofu crumbles. It can be used as a nutritious meat alternative in all your favorite dishes, including tacos, pasta, and more.
This recipe is free of gluten, nuts, and oil.
WHAT IS TOFU, AND WHY IS GOOD FOR YOU
Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a popular ingredient in many cuisines, particularly Asian dishes, and is highly adopted in plant-based cooking. It is made from soybeans and is a rich source of plant-based protein, making it a great alternative to meat for vegetarians and vegans.
Here are some reasons why tofu is good for you:
- High in protein: Tofu is an excellent source of protein, providing all nine essential amino acids that the body needs to build and repair tissues.
- Low in calories: Tofu is relatively low in calories, making it a great food choice for those trying to lose or maintain a healthy weight.
- Rich in minerals: Tofu is a good source of minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium, essential for maintaining strong bones and healthy blood cells.
- Low in saturated fat: Tofu is low in saturated fat, which is known to increase the risk of heart disease.
- Versatile: Tofu is a versatile food that can be used in many different dishes, from stir-fries to soups to smoothies.
Overall, tofu is a healthy food that provides many essential nutrients while being low in calories and saturated fat.
HOW TO PREPARE THIS TOFU GROUND BEEF
(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).
Tofu ground beef is a meatless protein alternative made by mixing crumbled tofu with spices and seasonings to mimic the texture and taste of real ground beef. It requires only a few simple ingredients, and you can have it ready in no time.
This recipe is super easy to prepare and so versatile and customizable that you will be preparing it all the time, like me! Many Argentinian dishes include ground meat as an ingredient, so having this option is a significant step to veganize traditional recipes.
To prepare this vegan ground beef, preheat oven to 400°F, crumble tofu, mix marinade, pour over tofu, bake for 20-25 minutes, and season with salt and pepper. And that’s it!
KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
To make this versatile tofu ground beef, the following items/tools are required:
- You can press the tofu by wrapping it in two paper towels and placing it on a plate with something heavy above it. Or you can use some tofu press.
- A set of bowls for mixing the marinade ingredients and coating the tofu.
- And a baking sheet for cooking the tofu in the oven, and that’s it.
INGREDIENTS
Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this tofu ground beef:
- Extra-firm tofu: As the base of the dish, extra-firm tofu is chosen for its ability to hold its shape and mimic the texture of ground beef when crumbled. It also absorbs flavors well, making it an ideal meat substitute in plant-based recipes.
- Soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option): Adds a rich, umami flavor to the tofu, which enhances its meaty taste. Tamari, a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, can be used for those with gluten sensitivity or preference.
- Tomato paste: Imparts a depth of flavor and a slightly tangy taste, complementing the umami from the soy sauce.
- Maple syrup: Adds a natural sweetness to balance the savory and tangy flavors. Maple syrup also helps with caramelization when baking, giving the tofu a crispy exterior.
- Garlic powder contributes a robust, savory flavor commonly found in many ground beef dishes.
- Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and savory aroma, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the tofu ground beef.
- Paprika powder: Gives a mild, sweet flavor and a hint of earthiness, which complements the other spices and adds depth to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Allows individual seasoning preferences, ensuring that the tofu ground beef is neither bland nor salty.
DIRECTIONS WITH PICTURES
To make delicious tofu ground beef, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Start by draining and pressing your tofu to remove excess liquid, then crumble it into a bowl using your hands or a fork until it resembles ground beef.
Next, make a marinade by combining soy sauce (or tamari), tomato paste, maple syrup, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika powder in a small mixing bowl. Mix well and pour over the crumbled tofu, ensuring that it is evenly coated.
Spread the marinated tofu crumbs thinly on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the mixture is slightly crispy and browned. Stir and check every few minutes to ensure even baking or if it’s the right texture of your liking.
Once done, let it cool for a few minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Enjoy your delicious vegan tofu ground beef as is or in your favorite recipes!
What to love about this recipe? Well, you will find that it is:
- Simple and easy!
- Healthy and flavorful.
- Versatile.
- Satisfying.
- And so delicious!
Let’s prepare this delicious tofu ground beef!
WATCH THE STEP-BY-STEP VIDEO!
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel to not miss any of the weekly recipe videos!
PRINTABLE RECIPE AND INSTRUCTIONS
EASY AND QUICK TOFU GROUND BEEF
Equipment
- 1 Tofu Press
- 2 mixing bowl
- 1 Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu (396 g.)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare your tofu by draining and pressing out any excess liquid*. Using your hands, a fork, or a potato masher, crumble the tofu into a bowl until it resembles ground beef.
- Combine the soy sauce (or tamari), tomato paste, maple syrup, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika powder in a small mixing bowl. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Pour the marinade over the crumbled tofu and mix well (gently), ensuring that the tofu is evenly coated**.
- Spread the marinated tofu crumbs evenly on the prepared baking sheet, forming a thin layer. It's essential to spread the mixture thinly for even cooking and browning.
- Bake the vegan ground beef in the center rack of the oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the mixture is slightly crispy and browned. Check and stir the mixture every few minutes to ensure even baking and achieve your desired texture. Be cautious not to burn it.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes—adjust season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Enjoy as is or in your favorite dishes calling for ground beef.
Notes
WAYS TO ENJOY THIS TOFU GROUND BEEF
Enjoy this versatile vegan tofu ground beef in many ways, such as:
- Using it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.
- You can also mix it into pasta dishes with tomato or Bolognese sauce, stews, or lasagna. Adding some vegan parmesan on the top. If you like Bolognese but without tofu, you can also try my Bolognese lentil sauce.
- Use it as a topping for salads, rice, or nachos.
- Stuff it into bell peppers.
- Or use it as filling in a vegan shepherd’s pie or empanadas.
If you are hungry for some similar veggie meaty meals, you could also try these yummy recipes:
- Easy Gluten-Free Vegan Meatballs.
- Chickpea Loaf Recipe.
- Bolognese lentil sauce.
- Vegan Beet Quinoa Burgers.
