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    Home » Recipe Index » Main dish

    Marinated Smoky Tofu (Easy & Simple)

    Published: Nov 13, 2020 · Modified: Nov 3, 2022 by Jessica

    JUMP TO RECIPE PIN SHARE

    This marinated smoky tofu is super easy to prepare and perfect for sandwiches (BLT style), buddha bowls or even with noodles. Made by soaking slices of tofu in a simple smoky marinade, then roasting in a pan until crispy and caramelized. It is SO flavorful and a much easier and accessible version compared to an actual smoked tofu recipe.

    Over head shot on a open sandwich being built. You can see one slice of the bread with the white sauce (mayo + mustard) and the other slice has lettuce, cucumber and tomatoes with 2 slices of marinated smoky tofu on top. On the side, there are more tofu, a small bowl with more white sauce. Everything is displayed on parchment paper.

    If you are just so-so about tofu in general or only beginning to use it in the kitchen, then you have got to try this recipe. This recipe is actually one of my favorite way to prepare tofu. It is SO simple, but has such a good punch of flavor that transforms a tasteless tofu into a bomb of deliciousness.

    The unique smoky flavor really makes the whole recipe, but I might be biased since I love smoky-everything. I always make sure I have a vegan chipotle mayo or smoky BBQ ketchup in the fridge so I can generously smother some smoky yumminess over just about everything that's in need of extra flavor. Or these smoky vegan TVP bacon bits, they have a permanent spot in my pantry! And this tofu really works well with these flavors as well.

    You can batch-prepare this smoky tofu to use in sandwiches, grain bowl or replace bacon at breakfast. It always disappears fast when I make it and now I double the recipe so we can use it for more than once.

    The marinade is super simple, only you will need to have liquid smoke to make it. It is very easy to find in any grocery stores and is a fairly cheap ingredient. It is the key ingredient in the marinade, so don't omit it!

    Close up on a marinated smoky tofu sandwich. The sandwich is cut in half and pilled on top of each other. In the sandwich, you can see the tofu, sliced tomatoes and cucumber, lettuce and a white sauce. In the background, you can see more smoky tofu, cucumber and lettuce.

    What is liquid smoke?

    Liquid smoke is made by burning wood and condensing the resulting smoke. It is then purified and concentrated into what we call liquid smoke. It has a very intense smoky flavor, so you only need a tiny amount to reach strong smoky flavors. You can use it to make marinades, BBQ ketchup, smoky mayo or anytime you want to add a smoky flavor to a dish without having to actually smoke it.

    What kind of tofu to use when making smoky tofu

    Regular extra firm tofu will give the best result for this recipe. Softer types of tofu would simply fall apart when cooking in the pan. I use our local tofu from Maine (Heiwa tofu), but any kind should work well. The soybeans to make tofu often are heavily sprayed by pesticides, so try spending the extra dollar to get organic tofu whenever possible.

    Close up on a few slices of tofu that have been marinated and pan roasted.

    How to make marinated smoky tofu

    The marinade only requires 6 simple ingredients and you can do a quick marinade of 1-2 hours or make it in the morning and let the tofu sip on the sauce until dinner time.

    Press and prepare the tofu

    • Start by pressing your tofu to remove as much water as you can. Pressed tofu will then act as a sponge and soak up the marinade easier, which will make it more so much more flavorful.

      I usually drain the package of tofu, then wrap the block in a few layers of paper towel (or clean hand towel) and add something heavy on top for at least 20-30 minutes, but aim for 1 hour.

      When done pressing, slice your tofu in about 8 slices of ¼-1/2 inch thick. This is the best way to cut it if making sandwiches, but you can also cut in cubed to add to bowls or salads. If looking for a bacon-like tofu, especially for breakfast, then you can also cut your tofu even thinner, although it might break more as you cook it, which is fine.
    This picture shows how I pressed the tofu. There is a block of extra firm tofu that's wrapped in paper towel and placed on top of a hand towel. There are a few large books on top to press on the tofu.

    Marinate the tofu

    • In a wide shallow dish, combine together the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, garlic, maple syrup and liquid smoke. Give it a good whisk and add the slices of tofu. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 2-3 hours will give you an even more flavorful tofu (overnight is better).
    This picture shows a hand holding on a slice of tofu and dipping it in a marinade in a container. There are a few more slices of tofu also marinating in the container.

    Cook the tofu

    • Once the tofu is done marinating, transfer the slices to a large warmed up pan over medium heat leaving the extra marinade back in the container. Use a small amount of oil to prevent the slices from sticking to the pan or can also be cooked without oil is using a non-stick pan.
    Close up on a few slices of tofu being cooked in a large pan. The tofu is brown since it was marinated first in a soy sauce mixture.

    Flip the tofu with a spatula to help keep the slices intact and use a spoon to coat the tofu once in a while with some of the marinating liquid that was left in the container.

    I prefer adding a tiny bit of sauce back to the tofu at intervals instead of pouring all the juice at once so it doesn't burn. The tofu should be done within 10 minutes.

    Close up on a spoon drizzling some marinade on food cooking in a pan.

    Smoky tofu serving suggestions

    My favorite way to eat this tofu is by making a smoked tofu sandwich. You can make a Vegan BLT or TLT (tofu-lettuce-tomato). In this case, the marinated tofu replaces the smoky flavor from the bacon. Ok, sure, it won't be the same as real bacon. But, the chewy and smoky intense flavor slice of tofu, especially when paired with the classic vegan cashew mayo, tomato, lettuce, will turn off a bacon craving, I'm sure.

    This roasted tofu also makes for a great topping for buddha bowls (especially this vegan Mexican buddha bowl) or simply to top any bowls of rice and veggies. Keep the remaining sauce from the marinade (or double the recipe of the sauce) to drizzle over your bowl. Keep the tofu in slices or cut in bite size cubes. Add also to salads to boost its protein content.

    You can also enjoy it for breakfast to pair with silken tofu scramble, toast and oil-free roasted potatoes. This smoky tofu would add lots of flavor and act a little bit like bacon.

    Close up on a few slices of tofu that have been marinated and pan roasted.

    Variation to the recipe

    You can use the marinade as a base and adjust it the way you want. Again, the recipe would not be the same without liquid smoke, so try not to omit this ingredient. But if you must do, then try adding a generous pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade to at least get some smoky flavor (just like in this pan-fried tempeh recipe and this vegetarian tofu BLT recipe).

    Also, you can use different sweetener, like agave nectar. I haven't tried making it with a non-liquid sweetener, but I would think that coconut sugar would work too. Simply whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved before adding the tofu.

    You can make a spicy smoky tofu by adding a squeeze of sriracha to the marinade and also add more spices if you want, like garlic or onion powder.

    How to store the leftovers

    The leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

    The smoky tofu is delicious cold, especially if preparing your sandwich to-go. But if you want to warm it up, simply roast the tofu once more in the pan for a few minutes on each side. If in a rush, then simply pop in the microwave for a few seconds (the tofu will be softer, but still so tasty).

    Over head shot on a open sandwich being built. You can see one slice of the bread with the white sauce (mayo + mustard) and the other slice has lettuce, cucumber and tomatoes with 2 slices of marinated smoky tofu on top. On the side, there are more tofu, a small bowl with more white sauce. Everything is displayed on parchment paper.

    Other tofu recipes you might like

    • Silken tofu scramble
    • Tofu bolognese
    • Tofu tikka masala
    • Crispy coconut tofu
    • Tofu-carrot spread
    • Vegan feta cheese
    • Sweet and sour tofu
    • Panko tofu nuggets
    • Balsamic tofu wraps

    I hope you will love this smoky tofu as much as we do! If you try it, please leave a comment below and rate the recipe to let us know how it was. Your feedback is so helpful!

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    📖 Recipe

    Over head view on a open sandwich being built. You can see one slice of the bread with the white sauce (mayo + mustard) and the other slice has lettuce, cucumber and tomatoes with 2 slices of marinated smoky tofu on top. On the side, there are more tofu, a small bowl with more white sauce. Everything is displayed on parchment paper.

    Marinated Smoky Tofu

    5 from 7 votes
    This marinated smoky tofu is super easy to prepare and perfect for sandwiches (BLT style), buddha bowls or even with noodles. Made by soaking slices of tofu in a simple smoky marinade, then roasting in a pan until crispy and caramelized. It is SO flavorful and a much easier and accessible version compared to an actual smoked tofu recipe.
    PRINT RECIPE PIN RECIPE
    Prep Time1 hour hr 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time15 minutes mins
    Marinade (overnight is best)1 hour hr
    Total Time2 hours hrs 25 minutes mins
    Servings 8 slices
    Author Jessica Laroche

    Ingredients
      

    • 454 g extra firm tofu
    • 3 tbsp soy sauce
    • 2 ½ tbsp maple syrup
    • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
    • 1 ½ tsp liquid smoke
    • 2 tsp dijon mustard
    • 1 large clove of garlic - crushed

    Instructions
     

    To make the smoky tofu:

    • Do a quick tofu press: Roll the block of tofu in a few layers of paper towel or a clean hand towel, keep in between 2 plates and add an few heavy books on top. Set aside for at least 30 minutes, but try pressing for 1 hours if you can.
    • While the tofu is pressing, make the marinade by combining the rest of the ingredients in a large shallow dish.
    • When the tofu is done pressing, slice it in 8 equal slices (about ¼-1/2 inch width). Then, transfer them to the marinade and move/flip the slices around to make sure every sides have been covered. Let sit for 1-2 hours, flipping the tofu once in a while. Can also be marinated overnight.
    • When done marinating, warm a large pan on medium-high heat. You can use a small amount of oil to prevent the slices from sticking to the pan and make the smoky tofu a little crispier or you can cook without oil by using a non-stick pan. When warmed up, transfer the tofu to the pan leaving the extra marinade back in the dish. Cook the slices on each side for a few minutes until browned and a little caramelized, while adding some more of the marinade once in a while (this is better than pouring the whole marinade in the pan as it will burn). This should take 10-15 minutes.
    • Serve in sandwiches, buddha bowls or at breakfast to replace bacon.

    Notes

    • Store the leftover tofu in an airtight container for up to 4 days. 
    • Re-heat the tofu by roasting the slices once more in the pan until warmed up (or if in a rush, then use the microwave)
    • Make a Vegan BLT Sandwich: spread some dijon, vegan cashew mayo or your favorite spread, then top with the smoky tofu, lettuce, tomatoes and cucumber. 
    • Make a bowl with the tofu: top brown rice and roasted vegetables with the tofu and drizzle with the leftover marinade. You can cut your tofu in cubes before adding to the marinade.
    • To serve at breakfast: pairs very well with scrambled silken tofu, toast and oil-free lemon roasted potatoes.
    • The total prep time was estimated at 2 hours including 1 hour for pressing the tofu + 1 hour minimum for marinating. 
    • Nutrition: please note that the nutritional information is an estimate per serving provided for informational purposes only (calculated by software) and accuracy is not guaranteed. Consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian if you need precise nutrition calculations for health reasons.

    NUTRITION

    Calories: 55kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 430mg | Potassium: 121mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 1mg
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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Jasmine says

      February 13, 2025 at 11:30 pm

      5 stars
      This was easy to make and tasted delicious. I froze mine before cooking, then pan-fried them when ready to use.

      Reply
      • Jessica says

        February 14, 2025 at 5:35 pm

        Hi Jasmine, thanks for your feedback, glad it worked out! 😊

        Reply
    2. joyce says

      June 20, 2024 at 10:58 am

      on a salt free diet. What can I use instead of soy sauce.

      Reply
      • Jessica says

        June 26, 2024 at 4:46 am

        Hi! You could try omitting it or use a no salt soy sauce.

        Reply
    3. Daniel says

      June 18, 2024 at 10:48 am

      5 stars
      I made this with Tofoo xtra firm tofu ripped into chunks. Didn't have mustard, and subbed pomegranate molasses for the syrup. I used the result in a vegan cassoulet with beans and sausages and it tasted amazing! Thanks!

      Reply
      • Jessica says

        June 18, 2024 at 3:55 pm

        Hi Daniel, thanks so much for your comment! 😊

        Reply
    4. Audrey says

      May 29, 2024 at 4:49 pm

      I’m going to try cooking in my air fryer, it has been one of my favorite appliances along with my instant pot and vitamix!

      Reply
      • Jessica says

        May 29, 2024 at 7:05 pm

        Hi Audrey!! Let me know how it goes in the air fryer, I'll also give it a try! 😊

        Reply
    5. Christin Vannello says

      February 26, 2024 at 10:59 pm

      Have you ever tried air frying it?

      Reply
      • Jessica says

        March 03, 2024 at 7:24 pm

        Hi! Sorry, I haven't tried air frying them... I bet it would work well though. Let me know if you try it 😊

        Reply
    6. Nicole says

      August 02, 2023 at 8:15 pm

      Hi. I tried this recipe today and Wow! Just so delicious and I am wrapped in the fabulous aroma

      Reply
      • Jessica says

        August 02, 2023 at 8:46 pm

        Hi Nicole! Thanks so much for your comment, I'm glad you liked it 🙂

        Reply
    7. Mellisa says

      March 19, 2023 at 9:38 am

      Have you tried baking it? If so what temperature would you recommend? My last batch of similar tofu almost ended up with a visit from the fire department there was so much smoke in my house!

      Reply
      • Jessica says

        March 20, 2023 at 8:42 am

        Hi Mellisa! Thanks for your message! I haven't tried baking it yet, but I will next time I make it and will add the info to the post if it worked ok. I would probably bake it at 375º and check on it often, flipping once or twice. I'm thinking about 25-35 minutes. I hope this is helpful! 🙂

        Reply
        • Rick says

          May 22, 2023 at 8:16 am

          5 stars
          Freezing the tofu, followed by thawing, then pressing and then slicing results in slices that don't crumble as easily even when cut thinly and become a bit chewy. Leftover uncooked slices re-freeze well layered between layers of parchment paper for later use

          Reply
          • Jessica says

            May 22, 2023 at 9:00 am

            Hi Rick, thanks for your tips! 🙂

            Reply
        • Cindi says

          July 08, 2023 at 6:31 pm

          5 stars
          This was amazing! We both loved it and this will be a go- to for us. Will use the leftovers in sandwiches tomorrow. Thanks for a great recipe!

          Reply
          • Jessica says

            July 08, 2023 at 7:58 pm

            Oh that's great!! Thanks for your comment 🙂

            Reply
    8. Mei-sheng shanks says

      August 26, 2022 at 2:04 pm

      Where would I look for, to find liquid smoke?

      Reply
      • Jessica says

        August 27, 2022 at 6:48 am

        Hi! You will find it in most grocery stores, usually in the condiment or spices section.

        Reply
    9. Pam says

      July 05, 2022 at 1:19 pm

      5 stars
      So good!! I ate it on a salad with Tahini Dressing. Tomorrow I'll eat it on a sandwich ... looking forward to lunch!

      Reply
      • Jessica says

        July 05, 2022 at 3:53 pm

        Oh that's great Pam! I'm glad it worked out, thank you so much for taking the time to share 🙂

        Reply
    10. Tee says

      March 30, 2022 at 7:23 am

      5 stars
      This was amazing !! My go too now for tofu… I use the smoky tofu in everything .. salads …. Sandwiches … in ramen …. Or just for snacking on …. It tastes amazing even cold !
      I use low sodium soy and it still tastes amazing … and it works well with agave

      Reply
      • Jessica says

        March 30, 2022 at 8:55 am

        Oh that's great! I'm glad you love it! Thanks for taking the time to share 🙂

        Reply
    11. Julie M says

      March 04, 2021 at 9:52 am

      5 stars
      Excellent ! en sous-marin au four avec légumes grillés 🤤

      Reply
      • plantbasedjess says

        March 04, 2021 at 8:02 pm

        oh bonne idée. Yum!

        Reply

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    Profile picture for Plant Based Jess in the kitchen.

    Hi there! I’m Jessica, a pasta obsessed French Canadian now living in beautiful Maine. I’m a mom of two, experienced foodie and ninja meal planner. I believe everyone can make stress-free plant-based meals with wholesome ingredients that your family and friends will love. 

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