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Tea Smoked Tofu: A Vegan Alternative to Smoked Meat

By TeaTrade Editorial Team • Updated January 2026 • Reading Time: 5 Minutes

Tofu often gets a bad reputation for being bland, but it is actually a flavor sponge. This recipe transforms humble soy protein into a dense, savory delicacy that rivals smoked ham or bacon.

The secret is Wok Smoking. By heating a mixture of rice, sugar, and tea leaves in a sealed pot, you create a thick, aromatic smoke that penetrates the tofu. The result is a golden-brown exterior and a deep, woodsy flavor perfect for salads, stir-fries, or sandwiches.

Golden brown smoked tofu slices on a cutting board with tea leaves.
Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Servings2 People

Ingredients

  • 1 block Extra Firm Tofu (Crucial for texture)
  • Marinade: 1/4 cup Soy Sauce, 1 tbsp Maple Syrup, 1 tsp Sesame Oil, 1/2 tsp Five Spice Powder
  • Smoking Mix: 1/2 cup Uncooked Rice, 1/2 cup Black Tea Leaves (Lapsang or Earl Grey), 2 tbsp Brown Sugar

Instructions

1.
Press the Tofu: Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place a heavy pan or book on top. Let it sit for 30 minutes. This squeezes out water so it can absorb the smoke and marinade.
2.
Marinate: Slice the pressed tofu into 1cm thick slabs. Mix the marinade ingredients. Coat the tofu and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
3.
Build the Smoker: Line a wok or heavy pot with aluminum foil (to save you scrubbing later). In the center, pile the rice, tea leaves, and sugar. Mix them slightly. Place a metal steamer rack over the mix.
4.
Smoke: Arrange the tofu on the rack. Turn the heat to medium-high. Wait until you see wisps of smoke rising from the tea mix.
5.
Seal & Wait: Immediately cover with a tight lid. If smoke escapes, seal the rim with a wet towel or foil. Smoke for 10-15 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it sit (covered) for another 5 minutes. The tofu should be golden brown.

Open Windows!

Wok smoking creates a lot of smoke. Turn on your extractor fan and open the windows before you start. If you have a sensitive smoke alarm, you might want to disable it temporarily or do this on an outdoor camping stove.

More Smoky Flavors

Love the taste of smoke?

Recipe: Smoky Tea Rub for Steak

History: The Origins of Smoked Tea

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