Easy & Creamy Vegan Carbonara with Smoky Tofu (Dairy-Free, Egg-Free)

il y a 2 semaines

Craving a rich, creamy, and undeniably satisfying carbonara but want to keep it plant-based? Look no further! This easy vegan carbonara recipe offers all the classic flavors and textures you love, completely dairy-free and egg-free. Perfect for a cozy night in, especially on those dreary, rainy days when comfort food is a must. Many abillion users have raved about this recipe, calling it "super delicious" and a "must-try!"

This recipe solves the problem of finding a truly authentic-tasting vegan carbonara, using clever plant-based ingredients to mimic the traditional eggy, cheesy, and smoky notes. You'll be surprised how simple it is to whip up this impressive dish that's sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Vegan Carbonara with Smoked Tofu A close-up of the creamy vegan carbonara with smoky tofu bits, ready to be enjoyed.

What You'll Need

This recipe yields 4 delicious portions.

Ingredients

400g smoked tofu
80g chickpea flour
160g water (for the chickpea batter)
80g cashews, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes
2-3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
Generous amount of black pepper
1 full tablespoon Kala Namak salt (This is the secret for that authentic 'eggy' flavor!)
A bit of olive oil for cooking
Optional: A pinch of smoked paprika for extra smoky flavor
Optional: A bit of turmeric for color
Your favorite pasta for 4 servings

Equipment

Large pan
Small pan
Blender
Pasta pot

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious vegan carbonara:

Prepare the Tofu: In a large pan, brown the smoked tofu with a bit of olive oil until crispy. For an extra layer of flavor, add a touch of smoked paprika as you cook. Once browned, remove and set aside.
Make the Chickpea Batter: In the same large pan, combine the chickpea flour with 160g of water. Stir continuously for a few minutes over medium heat until it forms a thick batter. Don't worry about minor lumps; it will cook out. This creates a base for your creamy sauce.
Blend the Carbonara Cream: Transfer the cooked chickpea batter to a blender. Add the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, Kala Namak salt, a generous amount of black pepper, and a bit of hot water (start with a few tablespoons and add more if needed) to achieve a super creamy consistency. For that classic yellow hue, you can add a pinch of turmeric. Blend until completely smooth.
Cook the Pasta: While preparing your sauce, cook your favorite pasta according to package directions. For the best carbonara texture, drain your pasta a few minutes before the indicated cooking time – it should be perfectly al dente.
Combine and Serve: Transfer the al dente pasta directly into the pan with your creamy carbonara sauce. Mix well until every strand is coated. Serve immediately, topping each portion with the browned smoked tofu and another sprinkle of fresh black pepper. Enjoy!

Tips & Hacks for the Perfect Vegan Carbonara

Achieving Ultimate Creaminess: Ensure your cashews are properly soaked. If you're short on time, soak them in boiling water for at least 10-15 minutes. For an even smoother sauce, a high-speed blender works wonders.
The Magic of Kala Namak: Don't skip the Kala Namak salt! This sulfurous black salt is the key to mimicking that distinct 'eggy' flavor found in traditional carbonara. As one abillion user noted, "the Kala Namak salt really has an absurd cheese flavor" (referring to its eggy/sulfurous quality).
Perfectly Al Dente Pasta: Draining your pasta slightly before it's fully cooked and finishing it in the sauce allows it to absorb the flavors, creating a more cohesive and delicious dish.
Color Boost: If you want a more vibrant yellow color reminiscent of egg yolk, a tiny pinch of turmeric (as suggested by another abillion user) will do the trick without affecting the taste.

Variations & Adaptations

Gluten-Free: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta.
"Bacon" Alternatives: While smoked tofu provides an excellent texture and smoky flavor, feel free to experiment with other plant-based bacon alternatives like tempeh bacon or mushroom "bacon" for variety.
Add Some Greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale at the end for a nutritional boost and a pop of color.
Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes added with the tofu can give this carbonara a delightful kick.

Ready to serve Vegan Carbonara A serving of the delicious vegan carbonara, topped with crispy smoked tofu and black pepper.

This easy and quick plant-based carbonara is a testament to how delicious and satisfying vegan cooking can be. It's a dish that impresses both vegans and non-vegans alike, proving that classic comfort food can be reinvented beautifully.

Ready to try it yourself? Whip up this smoky & creamy vegan carbonara tonight and share your creations on abillion! Your fellow foodies can't wait to see your masterpiece.

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