This Smoked tofu is superbly delicious. It is savory and earthy with the hints of sweet and umami taste. If you like intense, bold and grilled flavors, and looking for meatless options, make this caramelized smoky tofu.
If you haven’t tried smoked tofu yet, you’re missing out. It is an extra firm tofu infused with the rich flavors of liquid smoke. And it’s simply best!
I show you how to make the best homemade smoked tofu using the oven, or air-fryer or in the skillet with this easy recipe.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
It requires only 5 ingredients. Vegan smoky tofu is oil free, gluten-free and inexpensive to make. Use this flavorful crispy tofu in salads, buddha bowls, sandwiches, and for snacking.
These tofu bites are so delicious, I can't stop eating them. They are full of tangy bold flavors. You can simply munch them for satisfying snack.
I like to use store bought liquid smoke to make super easy marinated smoky tofu. It is easier than using a smoker oven or grill.
Ingredients
Tofu - Use only extra-firm tofu.
Coconut liquid amino - to keep this recipe gluten free. Tamari or soy sauce are other options.
Rice vinegar - It adds a nice tangy flavor. You can use fresh lemon juice as well.
Liquid smoke - Hickory , Applewood or mesquite are popular choices. It is sold near the barbecue sauces at the grocery stores. Adding my Amazon Affiliate link if you buy at online.
Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card.
How to make
Prepare the tofu : You need to remove as much water as possible to make crispy tofu. Use a Tofu Press. Cut your tofu in your desired shape. I like to cut it in rectangular shape but you can cut it any size.
Marinate : In a bowl, mix rest of the ingredients and whisk well. Place cut tofu pieces in the marinate. Let it soak the flavors for couple hours. If time permits, do this overnight for intense strong flavors.
Bake tofu : Pre heat oven to 350° Fahrenheit. Arrange your marinated tofu pieces on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake them for about 20 minutes on each side, flipping it halfway through.
How To Air Fry Smoked Tofu
Follow directions to prepare the tofu and marinate is as above. Arrange the cut pieces of tofu on the air fryer basket. Air fry at 350 degree Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, rotating half way through. Remove promptly and serve.
Pro tips
- Only use extra firm or firm tofu to make this recipe. Silken tofu does not hold it's shape and will crumble.
- You need to remove as much water as possible to make crispy tofu. Tofu Press is the best option. Or put it on multiple layers of paper towel or clean kitchen towel, put some weight on it and let the water drain.
- This recipe does not need additional salt. The liquid smoke and coconut amino both have high amount of sodium which is enough to flavor the tofu.
Storage
Refrigerator : Store your smoked tofu in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer : You can make a big batch and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this baked tofu over the bed of rice, lettuce or tucked in sandwiches or wraps. You can ass various curry recipes like Thai Green curry or Massman Curry.
If you want to make a meal around it, serve it with Stir Fry Rice Noodles, Eggroll in a bowl or Vegan Cabbage Steaks.
Delicious Tofu Recipes
Tofu is my favorite choice for plant based wholesome meals. It's rich in plant protein and complex carbs. Besides this recipe, do try Tofu Scramble, Air Fryer Tofu, Thai Red Curry and Kung Pao Tofu recipes from our kitchen.
You can make delicious vegan curries using tofu. Thai Red Curry with Tofu, Vegan Massman Curry, Green Curry Tofu and Indian Tofu Curry with onion and tomato masala are all hearty and comforting.
Instead of buying a packet at store, make a big batch at home. It's very budget friendly and inexpensive. Plus this tofu stores well, so use it for meal prep too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Smoked tofu has intense smoky flavor. This recipe uses liquid smoke which imparts classic barbeque favorites, Hickory , Applewood or mesquite flavors.
Yes. Once you marinate the tofu, it should be thoroughly cooked before eating. You can either cook it on skillet, bake it in oven or air fry it.
Extra-firm tofu marinated with liquid smoke to give it a smoky flavor. It is vegan food delight that replaces the smoky barbeque meat.
If you use gluten free sauces including liquid coconut amino , then it becomes gluten free. Make sure to use certified gluten free products.
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📖 Recipe
Smoked Tofu
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 14 ounce package extra-firm tofu, drained, pressed, and cut into pieces
- 3 Tablespoons coconut amino or tamari or soy sauce
- 2 Tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
Instructions
- Whisk together coconut amino, rice vinegar, maple syrup and liquid smoke together in a small bowl or cup.
- Place the tofu slices in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
- Marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or covered and chilled for up to 24 hours.
How To Make Smoked Tofu in Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated tofu slices on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake the tofu for about 30 minutes, carefully turning the pieces halfway through.
- Remove the tofu from the oven and serve.
How To Make Smoked Tofu in Air Fryer
- Arrange the marinated tofu slices on the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air Fry at 350° Fahrenheit for 15 minutes carefully turning the pieces halfway through.
- Remove the tofu from the air fryer and serve.
How To Make Smoky Tofu on the skillet
- On a medium high heat, warm up 1 Tablespoon cooking oil in the skillet. Arrange marinated tofu slices on the skillet.
- Let them cook for 5 minutes on medium heat. Check for golden brown bottoms. Flip them upside down and let them cook further for 5 more minutes.
- Tofu is done when firm and golden brown on both side and looks caramelized. Serve and Enjoy !
Notes
Freezer : You can make a big batch and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
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Erin
I love this recipe so much! It completely satisfies when I have a craving for beef jerky, which was one of my favorite treats when I used to consume meat. It's perfect! Thanks so much for filling this hole in my vegan diet!
Prajakta Sukhatme
So happy to hear that. Thank you !