Tofu Jerky

I love tofu and I love beef jerky. So, why not make tofu jerky? Before you send me that e-mail I know this is a beef site.

But Tofu Jerky is such an interesting recipe I just had to include it.

Tofu Jerky Recipe

1 package extra firm tofu
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons honey
4 Tbsp liquid smoke flavoring
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon Onion powder
1 clove crushed fresh garlic
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 tablespoons barbecue sauce
2 teaspoons brown sugar

In a saucepan combine the soy sauce, honey, liquid smoke, water, garlic powder, black pepper, barbeque sauce and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring well, and then cool the mixture completely.

Drain the tofu well and then pat dry with paper towels. Slice the tofu into 1/4 inch thick slices and place in a single layer in a shallow baking pan or cookie sheet. Pour the marinade over the tofu slices. Cover and let it soak for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Preheat your oven to the lowest temperature, around 200 degrees F. Line an oven rack with heavy-duty aluminum foil, and place in the lowest position of the oven. Place the tofu slices on the foil.

Drying time will depend on the weather but will be between 4 to 8 hours. When ready it'll be very chewy. If it's crispy you over dried it!

Tofu Jerky Variations

The above recipe is very flavorful but it's easy to be creative with tofu jerky. It's the nature of tofu to take on the flavors of whatever it's mixed with.

Feel free to experiment with the above recipe by changing the amounts of ingredients or even eliminate or add ingredients.

If you have a favorite beef jerky marinade it will work just as well with tofu. I haven't tried dry rubs but they might work also.

Tofu Jerky is delicious. Try it just once and I think you'll be making it regularly.