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Ingredients
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Fauxrizo (plant-based chorizo)
For cooking / serving
Method
Fauxrizo (plant-based chorizo)
- 1
Press and crumble tofu
Drain the 14 oz extra-firm tofu and press it for 15–30 minutes to remove excess water (use a tofu press or wrap in kitchen towels and put a weight on top). Once pressed, crumble the tofu into small, uneven pieces with your hands or a fork — aim for a texture similar to ground meat.
- 2
Mix seasoning paste
In a medium bowl, combine 2 tbsp smoked Spanish paprika, 1 tbsp sweet paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp ground black pepper, 1 tsp sea salt, 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp olive oil, and 2 tbsp water. If you want extra heat/smoke, add the optional 1 tsp ground chipotle/cayenne. Stir well to make a thick, spreadable paste.
- 3
Combine tofu and spices
Add the crumbled tofu to the bowl with the spice paste. Use a spatula or your hands to mix thoroughly, making sure the tofu is evenly coated with the seasoning paste. Taste a small pinch and adjust salt, acidity (add a little more vinegar), or sweetness (add more maple syrup) if needed.
- 4
Marinate (optional but recommended)
Let the seasoned tofu sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb flavors; for best results refrigerate for 1–4 hours in an airtight container.
For cooking / serving
- 5
Sauté aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 cup chopped onion and sauté 4–6 minutes until soft and translucent. Add 2 tsp minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 6
Cook the fauxrizo
Crumble or add the seasoned tofu mixture to the skillet with the softened onions. Spread into a single layer and let cook undisturbed 2–3 minutes to develop some browning. Stir and continue to cook 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tofu is nicely browned and slightly crispy in places. If the pan looks dry, add up to 1–2 tablespoons water or oil to prevent sticking.
- 7
Finish and serve
Taste and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, or smoked paprika) as desired. Stir in chopped cilantro if using. Serve warm as you would chorizo: in tacos, breakfast scrambles, burritos, on pizza, or mixed into rice and beans.