Tofu Steak

This Tofu Steak is a total game changer and will be your new favorite way to eat tofu! Packed with protein and a delicious smoky flavor, it’s perfect for a meat-free meal with your favorite sides.

If you're not a big fan of tofu, this Tofu Steak will change your mind!  Tofu is made from soybean curds which is plant-based and high in protein and nutrients. It doesn't have much flavor itself, but this means it will absorb your yummy seasonings.

Here I've made a simple marinade with a steak-like presentation due to the scoring, to give it that extra touch. You can then serve the tofu steak alongside side dishes such as my parmesan crusted potatoes, smashed broccoli and drizzle with the perfect vegan gravy for a mouthwatering dinner!

The great thing about this tofu steak recipe, is that it's easy, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The actual making of the marinade takes a few minutes, along with the super quick cook time to get that yummy char. The longer you leave the tofu marinating, the better it will taste though. If you’re short on time, not to worry as you can keep glazing the tofu to still get those flavors.  

I personally love cooking with tofu as it’s a blank canvas that you can marinade and use in so many dishes. You can really transform it into anything you like! Some other favorite ways I love to eat tofu are my crispy breaded tofu, rice paper dumplings and sticky tofu to name a few. Even meat eaters will love them all!

True story, I used to love a good steak. However since switching to a mostly vegetarian and plant based diet, it’s not something I miss anymore. With dishes like this delicious smoky tofu steak, you can still be satisfied without eating any animal products. Another fun plant based idea are my cauliflower steaks which is also another great steak substitute.

Table of Contents

• Why you'll love this recipe
• Ingredients and Substitutions
• How to make Tofu Steak
• What to serve with Tofu Steak
• Tips and Tricks
• Storage, Reheating and Freezing
• FAQs
• More Tofu Recipes
• Recipe
• Comments

Why you'll love this recipe

• Fun and new: No more boring bland tofu with this fun and new way to serve it 
• Delicious flavor: The marinade infuses the tofu with a delicious smoky flavor and glaze 
• Quick and easy: A simple recipe with easy steps, great for a quick weeknight dinner 
• Endless possibilities: Experiment with different toppings and sides for the perfect meal

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Tofu is of course the base of our "steaks". Choose extra-firm tofu for the best texture, I always opt for an organic brand labeled “Non GMO”. Ensure to press and score it for the best flavor and texture 
• Soy sauce adds umami depth and saltiness. I usually use a low-sodium soy sauce You can substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option
• Liquid smoke is the secret weapon that gives the tofu steaks a smoky flavor and used in a lot of vegan recipes. It's quite strong though so you only need a very small amount. Smoked paprika can be used if you can't get your hands on it
• Maple syrup balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness. Agave, honey or brown sugar work too
• Garlic powder adds a garlicky kick without overpowering it, you can also use fresh garlic if you prefer
• Tomato paste aka tomato concentrate deepens the flavor, adds a hint of color and richness
• Extra virgin olive oil is added to thin out the marinade and allows it to soften the tofu. You can also use your preferred neutral oil

How to make Tofu Steak

Make this delicious smoky Tofu Steak for the perfect meat free dinner. Follow the simple steps below.

1. Press tofu for 10 minutes (refer to recipe card below for more info). Make the marinade by adding soy sauce, liquid smoke, maple syrup, tomato paste, garlic powder and olive oil in a container. Season with salt and pepper and whisk to combine
2. Slice tofu into a square or rectangle, about 1 inch / 2.5cm in thickness. Score the tofu by cutting diagonal slits across one direction (without cutting all the way through), then across the other direction. Flip and do the same on the other side
3. Tofu should have a criss cross pattern, refer picture above
4. Place tofu in the marinade and ensure all sides are coated. Allow to marinate for 15 minutes at minimum, but preferably an hour
5. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium to high heat. Place steaks in a hot pan and cook for a few minutes without moving so to create a nice char. Brush over some of the extra marinade
6. Gently flip the steaks and allow the second side to cook for a couple of minutes, brushing over any leftover marinade. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

What to serve with Tofu Steak

The options are endless! But here are some of my favorite sides:

• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Parmesan crusted potatoes
• Sauteed mushrooms
• Smashed potatoes
• Vegan gravy
• Smashed broccoli
• Parmesan carrots
• Sweet potato slices
• Roasted potatoes
• Jasmine or Basmati Rice
• Oven roasted vegetables
• Quinoa Tabbouleh

Tips and Tricks

1. Always press the tofu, as this removes excess moisture, ensuring the tofu absorbs the marinade better. You can do this with a tofu press or simply using kitchen towels
2. Slicing tofu with diagonal slits creates not only a steak-like presentation without using a grill pan, but it also allows the marinade to be soaked into the tofu
3. Marinate for as long as you can! The longer, the better to allow for the best flavor. I aim for 30-60 minutes, but if you are short in time, marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes 
4. Don't overcrowd the pan and try not to move the tofu around when cooking. This will give you the lovely brown char 
5. Get creative with toppings and sides. I’ve shared a list above with my favorites, but try my vegan gravy, smashed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms and onions to start

Storage, Reheating and Freezing

• Store any leftover tofu steaks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat in a pan with a drizzle of oil until warmed through for the best flavor. You can also microwave it but you wont have the same taste or texture
• You can freeze any leftovers for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

FAQs

More Tofu Recipes

• Sticky Tofu
• Tofu Satay
• Peanut Noodles
• Teriyaki Tofu
• Summer Rolls
• Thai Red Curry Soup
• Tofu Katsu
• Thai Yellow Curry

I love seeing your creations and remakes, so be sure to rate the recipe, comment and share your Tofu Steak photo on Instagram so I can share the love!

Recipe