This smoked tofu recipe gets it's rich umami flavor from a tofu marinade that's a cinch to prepare. It's baked, and not fried and can be eaten solo or in wraps, stir fries or steaming bowls of ramen.
Wrap the block of tofu in a clean tea towel, and put it on a plate. Put something heavy on top such as a cast iron pan. Weigh it down further with a few tin cans, and leave it for 30 minutes. Or, use a tofu press to press out the excess liquid.
While the tofu is draining make the smoky tofu marinade by combining the tamari, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, liquid smoke, chili powder, ground black pepper, salt and olive oil in a small bowl.
Heat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicon mat.
Cut tofu into cubes and transfer to a large shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the top. Turn the tofu over with your hands to ensure that it's evenly coated in marinade. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Spread the tofu out evenly on the baking tray and bake for 30-35 minutes.
Notes
Storage
Refrigerator
After you've baked the tofu and it's cooled down, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to let the tofu cool completely before sealing it in the container to prevent condensation and moisture buildup. Smoked tofu can generally last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. During this time, its flavor will continue to develop and enhance.
Freezer
If you want to store the smoked tofu for an extended period, you can freeze it. Wrap the tofu tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container suitable for freezing. Properly frozen smoked tofu can stay good for up to 3 months.When you're ready to use the frozen tofu, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once it thaws, you can reheat it or use it cold in various dishes. Keep in mind that freezing and thawing may change the texture of the tofu slightly, making it a bit firmer. However, it should still be delicious and usable in recipes.