This Smoky tofu is insanely delicious. It is savory, rich and earthy with hints of sweet and umami flavors. This caramelized smoked tofu is a perfect meatless meal option. This vegan and gluten free tofu recipe makes best homemade smoked tofu in the oven, air-fryer or in the skillet.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
This homemade smoked tofu recipe is easy and delicious. It requires only 5 ingredients. Vegan smoky tofu is also 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.
This recipe uses liquid smoke to make super easy marinated smoky tofu. It is so much easier than using a smoker oven or grill.
Vegan Tofu Recipes
Tofu is my favorite choice for meatless and vegan 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.
Instead of buying a package 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.
Ingredients
Tofu – Use extra-firm tofu best for this recipe.
Coconut liquid amino – Tamari or soy sauce could be substituted for this.
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 most grocery stores. Adding my Amazon Affiliate link in case 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 to get it done the best way possible. Or put it on multiple layers of paper towel or clean kitchen towel, put some weight on it and let the water drain. Cut your tofu. 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. Then arrange the cut pieces of tofu on the air fryer basket and 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. Use a Tofu Press to get it done the best way possible.
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
This smoked tofu can be served over bed of rice, lettuce or tucked in sandwiches or wraps. You can also use it with 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. You can also serve it with other side dishes like Sweet Potato Wedges, Crispy Smashed Potatoes or Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes.
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.
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Smoky 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 Smoky 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 Smoky 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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