Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Smokey Tofu Bacon & Pickled Herbs
Crispy Brussels sprouts, smoky tofu bacon, tangy pickled herbs, and a creamy tahini sauce—this dish is the ultimate umami-packed, plant-based side or main.
With crispy Brussels, crunchy air-fried tofu bacon, and bright, punchy herbs, this dish is a flavour and texture explosion that makes Brussels sprouts anything but boring!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy crunchy Brussels sprouts – Air-frying brings out their natural sweetness.
Protein-packed tofu bacon – Smoky, savoury, and ultra-crunchy.
Bright, tangy pickled herbs – Adds freshness and acidity to balance the richness.
Creamy tahini sauce – A smooth, nutty finish to bring it all together.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Smokey Tofu Bacon & Pickled Herbs
This Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Smoky Tofu Bacon & Pickled Herbs is crunchy, tangy, and full of umami goodness. It’s an exciting new way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, making them the star of any meal!
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer (alternatively oven bake)
Ingredients
Pickled Herbs
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh herb stems (e.g., coriander, parsley)
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Crunchy Tofu Bacon
- 1 block firm tofu crumbled
- 2 tbsp tamari
- 1 tbsp sugar-free maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp liquid smoke
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Tahini Sauce
- 2 1/2 tbsp tahini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- water to thin
- salt and pepper to taste
Brussels Sprouts
- 2 cups brussel sprouts halved
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- olive or avocado oil
Instructions
Pickle the Herbs
- In a small bowl, mix chopped herb stems and apple cider vinegar.
- Let sit for at least 10 minutes while preparing the rest of the dish.
Marinate the Tofu Bacon
- In a bowl, whisk together tamari, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Add crumbled tofu and toss to coat.
- Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (the longer, the better!).
Cook the Tofu Bacon
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
- Spread marinated tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air-fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Oven Method:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Spread tofu evenly on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until crispy.
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil and cumin seeds.
- Air-fry at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden brown and crispy.(Oven Method: Roast at 220°C (425°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.)
Make the Tahini Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt & pepper.
- Add water gradually, whisking until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
Assemble & Serve
- Plate the crispy Brussels sprouts.
- Drizzle generously with tahini sauce.
- Top with crunchy tofu bacon and pickled herbs.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!