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Vegan Tofu Lunch Meat Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 82 reviews
  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Lunch, Sandwich
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This easy 4-ingredient vegan lunch meat made from super firm tofu is a versatile and delicious plant-based protein that’s perfect for sandwiches, snacks, or any time of day. Infused with rosemary and thyme, and simmered in a seasoned vegetable broth, it offers a savory, natural flavor that’s a great addition to your vegan meals.


Ingredients

Vegan Lunch Meat Ingredients

  • 1 block (16 ounces/454g) super firm tofu
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) Better Than Bouillon, seasoned vegetable base
  • 3 sprigs rosemary
  • 5 sprigs thyme


Instructions

  1. Slice the tofu thinly: Use a vegetable peeler to thinly slice and peel the block of super firm tofu. For uneven pieces, use a sharp knife to carefully slice tofu into thin, even pieces to mimic the texture of lunch meat.
  2. Prepare the broth: In a large pan, dissolve 2 tablespoons of Better Than Bouillon seasoned vegetable base in 1 ½ cups of warm water, stirring until mostly dissolved. The broth will fully dissolve during cooking.
  3. Simmer the tofu with herbs: Add the sliced tofu along with the rosemary and thyme sprigs to the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure all tofu pieces soak up the broth evenly.
  4. Cook until broth is absorbed: Simmer the tofu for about 15 minutes until the vegetable broth has been mostly absorbed or cooked off, and tofu has taken on the herby flavors.
  5. Remove herbs and cool: Carefully remove the rosemary and thyme sprigs. Let the tofu cool for 5 minutes in the pan before transferring it into a container. You can enjoy it immediately or allow it to cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating for later use.

Notes

  • Use super firm tofu to ensure the lunch meat holds its shape and texture.
  • Thin slices replicate the texture of deli meat for sandwiches.
  • Adjust simmering time if necessary to fully absorb broth without drying out tofu.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Serve cold or lightly pan-fried for added texture.