If you're a tofu lover, you know that it's a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. One way to take your tofu to the next level is by smoking it. Smoking tofu adds a rich and smoky flavor that can transform your dishes into something special. While you can buy smoked tofu from the store, it can be expensive. Luckily, making smoked tofu at home is easy and cost-effective.
What You'll Need
To make smoked tofu, you'll need a few key pieces of equipment. The most important is a smoker. A smoker is a device that uses wood chips to produce smoke, which infuses the tofu with flavor. If you don't have a smoker, you can also smoke tofu on a regular grill using a method described by Vegan Dad.
When it comes to wood chips, you have several options. While some people believe that different types of wood chips result in different flavors, I have found that the difference is minimal. Kingsford hickory wood chips are readily available and work just as well as apple or cherry wood chips.
This recipe makes a large batch of smoked tofu, so if you don't plan on using it all at once, you can vacuum seal it to keep it fresh in the fridge for up to three months. If you don't have a vacuum sealer, you can make a half batch or plan to use up the tofu quickly.
How to Make Smoked Tofu
Follow these steps to make delicious smoked tofu at home:
- Cut two blocks of tofu into two thin pieces each.
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture by placing it between two plates with weights on top for 30 minutes.
- In a zip-top bag, combine soy sauce or gluten-free tamari sauce with the tofu and let it marinate for 45 minutes.
- Prep your smoker by adding a water basin and wood chips according to the instructions.
- Spray the grill rack with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Smoke the tofu at 225°F for 80-90 minutes until it turns golden brown.
- Optional: Vacuum seal the tofu pieces in individual bags for long-term storage.
Once you've made your smoked tofu, you can use it in a variety of recipes. Here are a couple of ideas to get you started:
Smoked Tofu Sandwiches with Avocado and Sprouts (Vegan)
For a quick and delicious meal, try making smoked tofu sandwiches. Layer slices of smoked tofu, avocado, and sprouts on your favorite bread. Add some condiments like vegan mayo or mustard, and you have a tasty and filling sandwich.
Blue Cheese Wedge Salad with Veggie Bacon Crumbles (Vegetarian, Gluten-Free)
Smoked tofu can also be used as a substitute for bacon in recipes. Try crumbling the smoked tofu and using it as a topping for a blue cheese wedge salad. The smoky flavor of the tofu adds depth to the salad and complements the creamy blue cheese dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put tofu in a smoker?
Yes, you can put tofu in a smoker to give it a delicious smoky flavor. The process involves marinating the tofu, smoking it at a low temperature, and then enjoying the flavorful results.
Do different types of wood chips result in different flavors?
While some people believe that different types of wood chips can result in different flavors, the difference is minimal. Kingsford hickory wood chips are a readily available option that works just as well as apple or cherry wood chips.
How long does smoked tofu last?
Smoked tofu can last up to three months when vacuum sealed and stored in the refrigerator. If you don't have a vacuum sealer, it's best to use the tofu within a few days.
In conclusion, making smoked tofu at home is a simple and cost-effective way to add a smoky flavor to your dishes. With a few key pieces of equipment and some easy steps, you can enjoy the delicious taste of smoked tofu in a variety of recipes. So why not give it a try and elevate your tofu dishes to a whole new level?
If you want to know other articles similar to Easy homemade smoked tofu: a flavorful guide you can visit the Cooking category.
Related Articles