Easy Smokey Glazed Tofu & Roasted Potatoes: A Hearty Vegan Dinner

2 weeks ago

Looking for a delicious, easy, and satisfying vegan meal that's packed with flavor? This Smokey Glazed Tofu and Roasted Potatoes recipe is your answer! It's a fantastic weeknight dinner solution that proves plant-based eating can be both simple and incredibly flavorful. Forget bland tofu – this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a protein-packed, fiber-rich, and comforting meal that's perfect for the whole family.

Whether you're a seasoned vegan, exploring plant-based options, or simply seeking a healthier alternative, this recipe offers a complete meal solution that’s easy to prepare and delightful to eat. It's also naturally dairy-free and egg-free, and can easily be made gluten-free with a simple swap.

Why You'll Love This Smokey Tofu & Potato Dish

This recipe shines as a go-to for many reasons:

Effortless Comfort Food: It delivers hearty, comforting flavors with minimal fuss, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Flavor Explosion: The smokey paprika glaze infuses the tofu with an irresistible depth, while the roasted potatoes provide a perfect savory contrast.
Nutrient-Dense: Tofu is a complete protein source, and potatoes offer essential vitamins and fiber, making this a well-rounded meal.
Versatile: Great for dinner, but also fantastic for meal prep as leftovers taste just as good the next day!

Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let's dive in!

Ingredients

For the Smokey Glazed Tofu:

1 block (around 14-16 oz) firm tofu, extra-firm preferred, pressed
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave syrup)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
Pinch of salt and black pepper to taste

For the Roasted Potatoes:

2-3 medium potatoes (e.g., Yukon Gold, Russet), scrubbed and diced into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Equipment

Large baking sheet
Parchment paper
Large mixing bowls
Sharp knife
Cutting board

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu: If using firm tofu, press it for at least 20-30 minutes to remove excess water. This step is crucial for crispy tofu that absorbs flavor. Once pressed, tear or slice the tofu into bite-sized pieces. Tearing creates more craggy edges for extra crispiness.
Season the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, toss the diced potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and optional herbs. Spread them in a single layer.
Start Roasting: Place the potatoes in the preheated oven and roast for 15 minutes.
Prepare Tofu Glaze: While potatoes are roasting, in a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Coat the Tofu: Add the pressed tofu pieces to the glaze mixture and toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated. Let it marinate for a few minutes while the potatoes continue to roast.
Add Tofu to Tray: After the potatoes have roasted for 15 minutes, carefully add the glazed tofu pieces to the same baking sheet, ensuring they are also in a single layer. You might need to gently push the potatoes to one side.
Continue Roasting: Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for another 20-25 minutes, flipping the tofu and potatoes halfway through. The potatoes should be tender and golden, and the tofu should be slightly crispy and caramelized.
Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately. This dish is fantastic on its own or paired with a fresh green salad.

Smokey Glazed Tofu and Potatoes ready to serve A close-up view of the perfectly glazed tofu and crispy roasted potatoes, ready to be enjoyed.

Ingredients for Smokey Glazed Tofu and Potatoes laid out All the simple, wholesome ingredients you'll need for this flavorful vegan meal.

Variations & Adaptations

Make it Gluten-Free: Ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce. All other ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels.
Add Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, broccoli florets, or carrots with the potatoes for an even more nutritious and colorful meal.
Spice it Up: For a kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the glaze.
Sweet & Tangy Glaze: A splash of apple cider vinegar can add a pleasant tang to the glaze.

Tips & Hacks

Tofu Pressing is Key: Don't skip pressing the tofu! This removes excess water, allowing the tofu to absorb more flavor from the glaze and get crispier during roasting. You can use a dedicated tofu press or simply wrap the tofu in a clean towel and place something heavy on top (like a stack of cookbooks).
Even Roasting: Ensure both the potatoes and tofu are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam the ingredients instead of roasting them, preventing them from getting beautifully crispy.
Crispy Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, you can parboil them for 5-7 minutes before tossing with oil and roasting. This creates a softer interior and helps achieve a crispier exterior faster.
Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is excellent for meal prep. Cook a larger batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Ready to try this easy and flavorful meal? Give this Smokey Glazed Tofu & Roasted Potatoes a go and share your delicious results with the abillion community!