Pineapple Glazed Tofu Ham
User Reviews
4.8
Pineapple Glazed Tofu Ham
Description
This recipe transforms extra firm tofu into a tofu ham by pressing out moisture, marinating it in soy sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and pineapple juice, then scoring the surface in a diamond pattern to hold aromatic whole cloves and allow deeper flavor penetration. The marination and scoring steps are key to infusing the tofu thoroughly with smoky, savory, and fruity elements.
Baking at 390°F for 45 minutes develops texture and browning, followed by applying a glaze made from reserved pineapple juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon. The tofu is then topped with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries before continuing to bake, which creates a caramelized, glossy finish that contrasts with the tofu's tender interior. The cloves add an aromatic note but are not edible themselves.
This glazed tofu ham is suitable as a vegan holiday main or a showpiece dish for gatherings. It offers sweet, smoky, and fruity flavors layered on a firm yet tender base.
Pressing tofu improves texture and helps the marinade penetrate. The marinating time of at least 45-60 minutes is important, with longer times enhancing flavor. The cloves should be removed or left aside when serving as they are decorative and aromatic but inedible.
Ingredients
For the tofu:
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke hickory flavor
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 extra firm tofu drained and pressed, 16-ounce package(s
- ~24 clove whole
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
For the glaze:
- ¼ cup pineapple juice reserved
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- Pinch cinnamon
Tofu topping:
- 4 pineapple rings
- 5 maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Place the soy sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice in a bowl and whisk together.
- After 30 minutes has passed, place the tofu blocks side-by-side in a rectangular storage container and score the tofu by making 1/2-inch deep diagonal cuts that create a diamond pattern. At the tip of each diamond, stick a whole clove. Pour the soy sauce mixture, add the lid to the storage container, shake it up. Let it marinate for 30 minutes, shake it again, and allow it to sit for another 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 390 degrees F.
- Transfer the tofu to an oven-safe dish and bake for 45 minutes, checking every 10 to 15 minutes to prevent burning.
- While tofu is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the reserved pineapple juice, brown sugar, and pinch of cinnamon.
- After 45 minutes, remove from heat and add the pineapple rings and maraschino cherries, as well as half of the glaze using a basting brush and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and use the basting brush to add the remaining glaze before serving.
Notes
- Press tofu thoroughly before marinating to remove excess moisture and enhance flavor absorption.
- Marinate tofu for at least 45-60 minutes; overnight marination deepens the taste.
- Score the tofu to allow marinade to penetrate and for clove insertion; do not consume the cloves.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6to 8 servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 170 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 170kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 23g | 8% |
| Protein | 14g | 28% |
| Fat | 3g | 5% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g | 3% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Trans Fat | 0.002g | 0% |
| Sodium | 1183mg | 49% |
| Potassium | 365mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 19g | 38% |
| Vitamin A | 23IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 5mg | 6% |
| Calcium | 74mg | 7% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
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