Smoky Tofu Steak with Mashed Sweet Potatoes is a tasty and comforting meal that balances bold flavors with creamy textures. The tofu steaks are perfectly browned and infused with a smoky seasoning that gives them a rich, meaty taste, while the mashed sweet potatoes add a naturally sweet and smooth finish to the dish. It’s a great combination that feels satisfying without being heavy.
I love making this meal when I want something hearty but also full of plant-based protein. The smoky flavor on the tofu always surprises people—it’s like a little twist that makes tofu feel special and exciting. When I prepare the mashed sweet potatoes, I usually add just a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance their natural sweetness, which pairs so well with the smoky tofu.
My favorite way to enjoy this dish is with a simple side of steamed greens or a crisp salad to keep things fresh. It’s great for a cozy dinner at home but also makes a nice packed lunch for the next day. Whenever I make these tofu steaks, I feel like I’m treating myself to something both wholesome and delicious, and it never fails to satisfy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Firm Tofu: Pressing tofu to remove moisture helps it brown nicely and soak up marinade. If you can’t find firm tofu, extra-firm works well too. For a different texture, try tempeh.
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives the tofu its smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika with a small pinch of liquid smoke is a good swap.
Sweet Potatoes: Mashed sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and creaminess. You can use orange or even purple sweet potatoes for color variation. Butter or olive oil keeps them smooth.
Sautéed Greens: Kale and spinach both work well. I like kale for its texture, but spinach wilts faster and tastes milder. Garlic adds a nice punch but can be left out if preferred.
How Do You Get Tofu Steaks Crispy and Flavorful?
To get tofu steaks crispy and tasty, follow these simple tips:
- Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove extra water – this helps it hold together and brown better.
- Marinate the tofu well so it absorbs flavor – at least 15 minutes, longer if you have time.
- Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet on medium-high heat. Too low and it won’t crisp; too high and it might burn.
- Cook each side 4-5 minutes without moving too much to build a golden crust.
- Drizzle a bit of oil on the pan, but don’t soak the tofu, or it can get soggy.
With patience and the right heat, the tofu will turn out smoky, crispy on the outside, and tender inside—a perfect match for creamy mashed sweet potatoes!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Pressing weight or tofu press – helps remove excess moisture for crispy tofu.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for slicing tofu and peeling sweet potatoes.
- Medium saucepan – to cook and mash the sweet potatoes.
- Large skillet or non-stick pan – for browning the tofu steaks and sautéing greens.
- Mixing bowls – to prepare the marinade and mix ingredients.
- Masher or fork – for mashing the sweet potatoes until smooth.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try different proteins: marinate seitan slices or tempeh for a similar smoky flavor.
- Swap greens: use Swiss chard or collard greens instead of kale or spinach.
- Add extras: stir in roasted garlic or paprika into the mashed sweet potatoes for extra flavor.
- Spice things up: sprinkle chili flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the marinade or greens.
Smoky Tofu Steak with Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smoky Tofu Steak:
- 400g firm tofu, pressed and cut into thick slices
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 600g), peeled and chopped
- 2 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tbsp plant-based cream or coconut milk (for creamier mashed sweet potatoes)
For the Sautéed Greens:
- 1 cup kale or spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, including 20 minutes pressing the tofu, 15 minutes marinating, and about 20 minutes cooking the sweet potatoes and tofu. You can multitask by preparing the tofu marinade while the sweet potatoes cook.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu for at least 20 minutes to get rid of extra water. Then cut it into thick slices so it cooks evenly.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until combined.
3. Marinate the Tofu:
Dip your tofu slices into the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up the flavors. If you have time, marinate up to an hour for extra taste.
4. Cook the Mashed Sweet Potatoes:
Put the chopped sweet potatoes in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add vegan butter, salt, pepper, and if you like, some plant-based cream or coconut milk. Mash until soft and creamy. Keep warm.
6. Sauté the Greens:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped greens, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
7. Cook the Tofu Steaks:
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan on medium-high heat. Add the marinated tofu steaks. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until nicely browned and a bit crispy.
8. Plate and Garnish:
Serve a generous scoop of mashed sweet potatoes on each plate. Add two or three tofu steaks and a helping of sautéed greens. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the tofu and potatoes for a fresh finish.
9. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy your smoky tofu steak with creamy mashed sweet potatoes and flavorful greens—a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory in every bite.
Can I Use Frozen Tofu for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen tofu works great as it has a firmer texture once thawed, which helps it hold up well when cooked. Just thaw it completely in the fridge or under cold running water before pressing and marinating.
How Can I Make the Mashed Sweet Potatoes Creamier?
Adding a splash of plant-based cream, coconut milk, or extra vegan butter will make the mashed sweet potatoes richer and creamier. Warm them slightly before mashing for best results.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the tofu and prepare the mashed sweet potatoes a few hours or even a day in advance. Reheat the mashed sweet potatoes gently on the stove and re-sear the tofu just before serving to keep it crispy.
What Are Good Sides to Serve with This Dish?
This tofu steak pairs nicely with steamed or roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or grain options like quinoa or rice to round out the meal.