Savory, slightly sweet, and as spicy as you choose to make them, these delightfully flavored strips of tofu or tempeh are delicious in wraps and sandwiches. Or, just enjoy them on their own to bolster the protein content of meals. If you'd like to use both tofu and tempeh, as shown in the photo, double the amount of marinade. Cook each kind of protein separately, then arrange on a plate to serve.
Serves: 4
- 14- to 16-ounce tub tofu, or 8-ounce package tempeh
Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons good-quality ketchup
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sriracha or other hot sauce to taste
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke, smoked paprika, or mesquite seasoning, or to taste
If using tofu, making sure that it's very well pressed of water ensures a better outcome (using a tofu press like EZ Tofu Press works very well). But if you don't have time for advance planning, cut the block of tofu into 6 slabs and blot very well with paper towels or a clean tea towel. Then, cut each slab into even strips no thicker than ¼ inch.
If using tempeh, cut the the block crosswise into even strips no thicker than ¼ inch.
Combine the marinade ingredients in a small bowl and whisk together. Heat this mixture in a wide nonstick skillet. Arrange the tofu or tempeh strips over the sauce.
Cook over medium-low heat (cover to prevent splattering) on both sides until the sauce is absorbed and they start to brown lightly, about 5 minutes per side or as needed. Serve warm or at room temperature as a sandwich filling or as a side dish.
Variation: To serve a larger crowd, use both the tofu and tempeh and double the amount of marinade. Divide the marinade between two skillets and cook separately to ensure even cooking.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving (when made with tofu): 129.2 calories; 6.8g fat; 424.8mg sodium; 154.8mg potassium; 10.9g carbs; 0.9g fiber; 8.5g sugar; 7.2g protein
- Here are more tempeh recipes.
- Explore more easy, versatile tofu recipes.
susan g says
Happy that you put this on Facebook so I could find it! Looks like tomorrow's lunch.
Nava says
Hi Susan — it's always great to hear from you!
Diane says
This looks amazing, I'll share it with our free vegan potluck group that meets in Palos Verdes, CA!
Nava says
Thanks so much, Diane — hope you and your vegan friends enjoy this!
jenjen says
I tried this recipe tonight and it turned out really good, I just made tofu tacos. I really dried out the tofu and it ended up with a good texture.
Nava says
Jen, what a great idea! Thanks for suggesting it for tacos — I think I'll try that myself some time ...
ginger says
My 8yr old added a little spicy bbq on the side,some baked beans and a salad with the tofu and said it was AWESOME!!!
Nava says
Ginger, glad you enjoyed it, and what a great idea for a menu … thanks for sharing!
Susan says
Delicious! My tofu didn't get very firm (I did a good job of pressing and blotting) so I don't know what happened. But the taste is really wonderful and I am looking forward to incorporating this into my dinner. Thank you!
Susan
Nava says
HI Susan, there's a lot of sauce in this, so the tofu does't get crisp exactly, but it shouldn't be mushy, either. It possibly also depends on your skillet, and the heat level you use. As long as you enjoyed the flavor, that's what really counts!
Amanda says
When I make this I bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, flip, and bake until brown. then i turn off the oven and let the tofu sit for about 30 minutes. the tofu becomes very chewy and it's a texture i like. the only thing is sometimes it can dry out so more sauce may be needed.
Liz says
I made this tonight and it was really good! I was looking for a quick sauce that I could use with tofu. I enjoyed this and will use it again - thank you!