Summer Smoky Tofu TLT Sandwich (Printable)
Smoky marinated tofu with crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes on toasted bread
# What you need:
→ Tofu & Marinade
01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
02 - 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
03 - 1 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1 tbsp maple syrup
05 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1 tsp liquid smoke
07 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
08 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
09 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Sandwich Assembly
10 - 8 slices whole grain or sourdough bread, toasted
11 - 8 large lettuce leaves
12 - 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
13 - Vegan mayonnaise (optional), for spreading
14 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Cut the tofu into 8 thin slices for even marinating and cooking.
02 - In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, maple syrup, smoked paprika, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
03 - Add tofu slices to the marinade, turning to coat thoroughly. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, turning once halfway through.
04 - Heat a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add marinated tofu slices and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove from heat.
05 - Toast bread slices until lightly golden. Spread vegan mayo on one side of each slice while warm.
06 - Layer ingredients on each sandwich: lettuce leaves on the bottom, followed by tomato slices, smoky tofu, and red onion if using. Top with remaining bread slices.
07 - Slice sandwiches in half diagonally and serve immediately while tofu is still warm.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The smoky marinade transforms plain tofu into something thatll make even dedicated bacon lovers pause
- It comes together in under 40 minutes but tastes like you fussed over it for hours
02 -
- Pressing the tofu is not optional here because water-logged tofu will steam instead of sear, never developing that crucial crispy exterior
- Dont rush the marinade time since those 15 minutes are what transform plain tofu into something extraordinary
03 -
- Cook the tofu in two batches if your pan is crowded because overlapping slices will steam instead of sear
- Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on the tomatoes right before assembling to make their flavor pop even more