Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Vegan Smoked Deli Slices Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 11 reviews

Vegan smoked deli slices made from firm tofu and vital wheat gluten, blended with smoky, savory seasonings and steamed to create a chewy, flavorful plant-based deli meat perfect for sandwiches or snacking.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 2 logs (about 2 servings per log, total 4 servings)

Ingredients

Tofu Mixture

  • 7 ounces firm tofu
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tsp liquid smoke
  • 1/2 tsp red food coloring
  • 1 medium shallot, roughly chopped
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup vital wheat gluten

Instructions

  1. Blend into a cream: Add the tofu, water, oil, white vinegar, soy sauce, liquid smoke, red food coloring, shallot, sugar, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to a blender. Blend on high speed for 30-50 seconds until smooth and creamy in texture, resembling a thick cream.
  2. Combine with the gluten: Transfer the blended tofu cream to a stand mixer bowl and add the vital wheat gluten. Prepare for kneading.
  3. Knead: Using the paddle attachment at medium speed, knead the mixture for 5-7 minutes. Initially, it will be very wet but will gradually form a stretchy dough. Alternatively, knead by hand until the dough becomes elastic and well combined.
  4. Wrap it: Divide the dough into two equal balls. Shape one ball into a 4.5-inch (11.5 cm) log. Wrap tightly first with parchment paper, then one layer of aluminum foil, and then a second layer of aluminum foil to prevent expansion. Repeat with the other dough ball.
  5. Arrange a steamer: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and place a steamer basket on top, either bamboo or stainless steel.
  6. Steam: Place the wrapped dough logs into the steamer, cover with the lid, and steam for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Check water level after 30-40 minutes and add water if necessary to keep at least 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) of water in the pot to avoid drying out or burning.
  7. Let cool completely: Remove the steamed loaves carefully and allow them to cool for at least 1 hour before unwrapping. Once cooled, wrap each loaf in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator.
  8. Slice: After chilling for a minimum of 6 hours in the refrigerator, slice the loaves into thin slices or dice into chunks according to your preference.
  9. Storage: Store the vegan smoked deli slices in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Notes

  • Make sure to keep the water level in the pot sufficient during steaming to prevent the dough from drying out or burning.
  • Wrapping the dough tightly in parchment and foil layers is important to maintain shape and prevent expanding while steaming.
  • This recipe makes 2 logs, perfect for multiple meals; freeze slices if not using within 7 days to extend shelf life.
  • For a spicier version, consider adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the tofu mixture before blending.
  • Use gluten-free flour alternatives if you require a gluten-free version, but note texture will vary significantly.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Steaming
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Plant-Based
  • Diet: Vegan

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/vegan-smoked-deli-slices-recipe/