Homemade Smoked Tofu

Learn to make Smoked Tofu using a few marinade ingredient in the oven or air-fryer! Perfect as the base for salads, noodles or stir-fries.

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Substitutions
• Storage Tips
• Variations
• 📖 Recipe
• Pairing
• 💬 Reviews

Why You'll Love This Recipe

When I used to live in Sweden, I frequently bought a product called 'Smoked Tofu' which is so convenient to use and add to my dishes. After moving back to Vietnam, this product is no longer available anymore, but I was able to find an easy way to recreate this amazing product.

You'll love Smoked Tofu because

• Versatility: Smoked tofu is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into a wide range of dishes. Whether you're making a flavorful vegan carbonara pasta, delicious skewers, satisfying wraps, or refreshing salads, smoked tofu adds a unique smoky flavor and a satisfying texture to any recipe. Its ability to complement various cuisines and ingredients makes it a go-to choice for both vegans and non-vegans alike.
• Convenient Meal Prep: Smoked tofu is a convenient ingredient to have on hand for quick and easy meal preparation. By marinating and smoking the tofu in advance, you can have it readily available in your fridge or freezer whenever you need it. This makes it a time-saving option for busy individuals or those looking to simplify their cooking process. Simply slice or crumble the smoked tofu and add it to your desired dishes for an instant boost of flavor and protein.
• Distinct Smoky Flavor: One of the most appealing aspects of smoked tofu is its unique smoky flavor. The smoking process infuses the tofu with a rich and savory taste reminiscent of traditional smoky flavors found in meats. The smokiness adds depth and complexity to your dishes, making them more satisfying and enjoyable. This unique flavor profile can be a game-changer, especially for those who love the taste of smoked foods but prefer a plant-based diet.
• Nutritional Benefits: Smoked tofu offers several nutritional benefits. It is a great source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking to increase their protein intake. Tofu is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free, making it a heart-healthy option. Additionally, it contains essential amino acids, iron, calcium, and other beneficial nutrients, contributing to a well-rounded and nutritious diet.

Ingredients

With smoky flavors from the liquid smoke and smoked paprika powder, this tofu only needs to be baked or air-fried. This is a game-changing technique to create this flavorful and smoky tofu. This recipe uses these following 7 ingredients:

• Firm or extra-firm tofu
• Soy sauce
• Liquid smoke
• Maple syrup
• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika powder

See the recipe card for the measurements.

Instructions

Prepare the tofu:

Drain the tofu and pat it dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or slices, depending on your preference.

Place the tofu cubes or slices in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring all sides are coated evenly. Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.

Bake or air fry the Smoked Tofu

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Once the tofu has marinated, transfer it to the prepared baking sheet, arranging the pieces in a single layer.

If baking in the oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. You can flip the tofu halfway through the baking process for even browning. Drizzle the leftover marinate on top.

If using an airfryer, air fry the tofu at 180°C for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Drizzle the leftover marinade on top of each piece so that the tofu can absorb even more flavors!

Once baked, remove the tofu from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Serve the oven-baked smoked tofu on toast, noodles, salads, or any other dish of your choice.

Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped cilantro or green onions, for added freshness and flavor.

Substitutions

• Soy Sauce: You can replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option or use coconut aminos as a soy-free alternative.
• Maple Syrup: If you prefer a different sweetener, you can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or another liquid sweetener of your choice.
• Vinegar: If you don't have rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or any other mild vinegar as a substitute.

Storage Tips

Here are some storage tips for the Smoked Tofu recipe:

1. Refrigeration: If you have any leftover smoked tofu, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate the tofu for up to 4-5 days, ensuring it remains fresh and flavorful.
2. Freezing: Smoked tofu can be frozen for longer storage. After it has cooled completely, place the tofu in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the tofu in the refrigerator before using it in your recipes.

Variations

You can customize the marinade for Smoked Tofu based on your preference, such as:

1. Sweet and Spicy: Add a kick of heat to the marinade by including a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also balance the smoky flavor with a touch of sweetness by increasing the amount of maple syrup or adding a bit of honey.
2. Asian-Inspired: Give the marinade an Asian twist by incorporating ingredients like ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar, or a splash of sriracha. This variation pairs well with stir-fries, rice bowls, and noodle dishes.
3. Barbecue-Style: Transform the smoked tofu into a barbecue-inspired delight by adding a tablespoon of tomato paste and a teaspoon of mustard to the marinade. You can also brush the tofu with your favorite barbecue sauce before baking it for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Herb-infused: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the smoked tofu. Consider adding dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the marinade, or sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or parsley over the baked tofu for a burst of freshness.
5. Citrus Zest: For a tangy twist, grate the zest of a lemon, lime, or orange into the marinade. The citrus zest adds a bright and refreshing flavor that pairs well with salads, grain bowls, and wraps.

If you have tried my recipe, please let me know what you think by leaving me a review on this page or tagging me on Instagram @veggieanh. I would love to see your creations!

Print

📖 Recipe

Pairing