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Close-up of crispy Brussels sprouts topped with smoky tofu bacon and vibrant pickled herbs.

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!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 280 kcal

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!
    Keyword air-fried, crispy tofu, high-protein, low carb