Summer Smoky Tofu TLT Sandwich (Print)

Smoky marinated tofu with crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes on toasted bread for a satisfying summer lunch.

# What You’ll 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)

# How To Make:

01 - Cut the tofu into 8 thin slices, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
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 fully combined.
03 - Add tofu slices to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, turning once halfway through.
04 - Heat a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add 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 if desired.
06 - Layer ingredients on each sandwich in this order: lettuce leaves, tomato slices, smoky tofu, and red onion if using. Top with remaining bread slices.
07 - Slice sandwiches in half diagonally and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The smoky marinade transforms plain tofu into something incredibly savory and satisfying
  • Everything comes together in under 40 minutes with ingredients you can keep on hand
  • Cold, crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes against warm, smoky tofu is pure summer perfection
02 -
  • Press your tofu for at least 20 minutes before slicing or the marinade will slide right off
  • Dont skip toasting your bread, it creates the crucial crunch that holds up against the juicy tomatoes
  • Let the tofu develop a deep golden color, not just light brown, for the best texture and flavor
03 -
  • Double the marinade and tofu batch while you are at it, the cooked slices keep beautifully in the fridge for quick weekday lunches
  • If you do not have liquid smoke, add a drop of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch more smoked paprika

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