Smoky Tofu Steak with Mashed Sweet Potatoes is a simple and satisfying dish that brings together bold flavors and comforting textures. The tofu is marinated and cooked to have a nice smoky taste and a crispy outside, while the sweet potatoes are mashed until they’re silky and smooth, offering a sweet contrast to the smoky tofu.
I love how easy this meal is to make but still feels special. I usually press my tofu really well before marinating it to help it soak up all those smoky flavors. It’s one of those dishes where a few simple ingredients come together and make something I want to eat again and again.
For me, this dish is the perfect cozy dinner after a busy day. I like to serve it with a side of steamed greens or a fresh salad to add a bit of crunch and color. Plus, the creamy mashed sweet potatoes are great for soaking up any extra sauce from the tofu—trust me, it’s a little bowl of comfort every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best here because it holds its shape when pressed and cooked. I always press my tofu well to get rid of moisture. If you can’t find tofu, tempeh can be a good, firmer alternative.
Sweet Potatoes: They add natural sweetness and creaminess. You could swap them for regular potatoes or butternut squash for a twist in flavor and texture.
Smoked Paprika: This is what gives the tofu its lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika plus a tiny bit of liquid smoke can work, but use sparingly.
Plant-based Milk & Vegan Butter: These keep the mashed sweet potatoes smooth and creamy. If you prefer, dairy milk and butter work just as well.
How Can You Get the Best Texture and Flavor from the Tofu?
Pressing and marinating tofu is key. Tofu is naturally watery, so pressing it helps it absorb the smoky marinade better and crisps up nicely.
- Press tofu with a heavy object for at least 20 minutes to squeeze out water.
- Slice into thick steaks so they don’t fall apart when cooking.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors sink in; longer is better.
- Cook in a hot skillet with enough oil to get a nice golden brown crust on each side.
These steps help the tofu develop a smoky, crispy outside and a tender inside—making it much more satisfying!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Pressing weight or heavy object – I use a cast-iron skillet on top of the tofu to squeeze out excess moisture, which helps it crisp up.
- Large pot – perfect for boiling sweet potatoes until they’re tender.
- Mixing bowls – for whisking marinade and mashing potatoes and beans.
- Non-stick or cast-iron skillet – great for cooking the tofu steaks to crispy perfection.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – essential for slicing tofu and chopping sweet potatoes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap white beans with chickpeas or lentils to change up the side’s flavor and nutrients.
- Add extra spices like chili powder or cumin to the marinade for more heat and depth.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil for brightness and freshness.
- Serve with a drizzle of vegan yogurt or tahini sauce for extra creaminess.
Smoky Tofu Steak with Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 14 oz (400g) firm or extra-firm tofu
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 lb / 450g)
- 1/2 cup cooked white beans (optional, for mashed white beans side)
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy, etc.)
- 1 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil (for mashing)
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 30 minutes for marinating the tofu, and approximately 25 minutes to cook and mash the sweet potatoes and tofu. Total time from start to finish is roughly 1 hour, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Drain the tofu and press it for at least 20 minutes to remove excess water. After pressing, slice the tofu into thick steaks about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. This helps the tofu soak up the marinade and cook evenly.
2. Make the Marinade and Marinate the Tofu:
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, soy sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Place the tofu steaks in a shallow dish or zip-top bag, pour the marinade over them, and make sure each piece is coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator (you can leave it up to 2 hours if you like).
3. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the water once they’re soft.
4. Mash the Sweet Potatoes (and White Beans if Using):
Return the sweet potatoes to the pot. Add the plant-based milk and vegan butter or olive oil, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using white beans, mash them separately with a splash of plant-based milk, salt, pepper, and half a tablespoon of olive oil or vegan butter until smooth, then set aside.
5. Cook the Tofu Steaks:
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated tofu steaks and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the tofu is nicely browned and has a slightly crispy edge.
6. Serve Your Dish:
Plate the tofu steaks with generous spoonfuls of mashed sweet potatoes and mashed white beans on the side. Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives or green onions to finish. Enjoy your smoky, hearty, and comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Tofu for This Recipe?
Yes! Freezing tofu changes its texture, making it firmer and chewier, which can hold up well as “steaks.” Just thaw it fully in the fridge overnight and press out any excess water before marinating.
How Long Can I Marinate the Tofu?
Marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes to soak up the flavors, but you can leave it in the fridge for up to 2 hours for even deeper smokiness and seasoning.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and marinate the tofu ahead and even cook the sweet potatoes in advance. Store cooked tofu and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
What Else Can I Serve with Smoky Tofu Steak?
This dish pairs well with steamed greens, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables. Adding a tangy sauce like vegan yogurt dressing or tahini can also complement the smoky flavors nicely.