Vegan Ham (Tofu Style)

Sliced vegan ham with a red glaze, served with roasted potatoes, green beans, and charred red onions.

Looking for a show-stopping holiday centerpiece that’s totally plant-based? This Vegan Ham made with tofu is sweet, smoky, and perfect for carving at the table. It’s super easy to make, and the glaze gives it that gorgeous caramelized finish everyone will love.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Diet Vegan, Vegetarian

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings

Calories 98kcal

Author Rachel

Ingredients

1 14-ounce block extra-firm tofu pressed for 15–30 minutes (or use super firm and skip pressing)
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon liquid smoke
1 Whole cloves for decoration (optional)

Instructions

Press your tofu to remove excess water. Slice it in half horizontally for two wide slabs. Use a sharp knife to score a diamond pattern into the top of each tofu block, about 1/4 inch deep (this helps the marinade soak in).
1 14-ounce block extra-firm tofu
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, tomato paste, vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cloves, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and liquid smoke if using.
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon ground cloves, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon liquid smoke
Place the tofu in a shallow dish or reusable bag and pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. For deeper flavor, marinate for several hours or overnight in the fridge.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tofu on a parchment-lined baking dish cut side up, stud a whole clove into the center of each diamond pattern on top of the tofu (if using), and brush with the excess marinade. Bake for 30 minutes.
1 Whole cloves
While the tofu bakes, whisk together the glaze ingredients. After 30 minutes, brush the glaze generously over the tofu. Return to the oven and bake another 15–20 minutes, until the tofu is caramelized and slightly firm around the edges.
Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a drizzle of extra glaze on top.

Notes

● For a holiday look, garnish with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries before baking the glazed tofu.

● If you want a firmer texture, freeze and thaw the tofu before pressing — it gives it a “meatier” chew.

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