If you haven’t experienced the deliciousness of smoked tofu, then you’re missing out on one of the best ways to prepare this popular soy food! In this article, we’ll explore the process of smoking tofu using a Nordic Ware smoker. Smoking tofu is simple, and it soaks up delightful smoky flavors like a sponge. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply love plant-based foods, this citrus-marinated smoky tofu is a must-try!
Can Tofu Be Smoked?
Yes, absolutely! While tofu may seem bland on its own, with a little effort, it can be transformed into a beautiful and flavorful dish. We’ll infuse the tofu with a bright and citrusy marinade before smoking it in the Nordic Ware smoker, adding a layer of smoky goodness to it. Making your own smoked tofu ensures a reliable source of this plant protein, which can be hard to find in stores.
Tips for Smoking Tofu
When it comes to cooking tofu, my number one rule is to never skip on flavoring it. Tofu acts as a blank canvas that absorbs flavors exceptionally well. So, be sure to season, marinate, or add some sort of flavoring to your tofu. If you’re not a fan of plain tofu, consider purchasing a flavored variety from the store. However, store-bought options may have limited flavors and added sugars, so keep that in mind.
Choosing the Right Tofu and Marinade
To achieve the best results, it’s important to use the right type of tofu for your recipe. For smoking tofu, I recommend using extra-firm or firm tofu. Avoid using silken tofu, as it is too mushy for smoking.
For the marinade, I’ve used a citrus blend, but feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors. The marinade consists of garlic, dried oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, fresh orange juice, orange zest, lemon juice, lime juice, and avocado oil (optional).
Step-by-Step Guide to Smoking Tofu
Here’s how you can smoke tofu at home:
- Prepare the marinade by combining all the ingredients.
- Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture.
- Slice the tofu block into four pieces and place them in the marinade.
- Marinate the tofu in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours.
- Remove the tofu from the marinade and let it dry in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours.
- Set up your Nordic Ware smoker with wood chips meant for smoking food.
- Place the tofu slices on the smoking tray in a single layer.
- Close the smoker and turn on the stovetop vent fan.
- Heat the smoker on a medium-low heat until it reaches a temperature of 190°F (88°C).
- Smoke the tofu for 20-25 minutes, maintaining a temperature of 190-210°F (88-99°C).
- If desired, grill the tofu for a few minutes per side to achieve nice grill lines.
- Refrigerate the tofu and serve it chilled or warm in your favorite dishes.
What to Make with Smoked Tofu
Smoked tofu adds a delightful smoky flavor to various dishes. You can enjoy it on its own or incorporate it into recipes like Mexican Buddha Bowls, salads, sandwiches, wraps, stir-fries, and more. The versatility of smoked tofu is truly amazing, and you’ll love exploring different ways to use it.
Storing Smoked Tofu
Smoked tofu can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well, so you can store it in a vacuum-sealed bag or a freezer bag with the air pressed out.
Expert Tips for a Delicious Experience
Tofu is a healthy and lean protein option that fits well into various diets, including vegetarian, vegan, low FODMAP, gluten-free, and low-carb. It’s a better choice than highly processed meat alternatives. However, tofu can be made into calorie-dense recipes, so be mindful of your calorie intake if you have weight loss goals.
Try These Vegetarian Smoker Recipes
Once you’ve mastered the art of smoking tofu, why not explore other vegetarian recipes for your smoker? Consider trying recipes like Smoked Mac and Cheese or Smoked Portobello Mushrooms. You can find more vegetarian recipes on our website.
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Please note that all recipes on this website may or may not be suitable for your specific dietary needs and preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician to determine the best dietary pattern for you. The nutrition information provided is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.
So, what are you waiting for? Give this smoked tofu recipe a try and let us know how you get creative with it in the comments below!