Blend Ingredients: Combine firm tofu, water, oil, white vinegar, soy sauce, liquid smoke, red food coloring, shallot, sugar, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth.

Mix with Gluten: Transfer the blended mixture to a mixing bowl and stir in the vital wheat gluten until fully incorporated.

Knead Dough: Knead the dough on a clean surface for about 5-7 minutes until elastic and cohesive.

Shape and Wrap: Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape into logs. Wrap tightly in parchment paper and aluminum foil.

Steam: Set up a steamer pot, place the logs in and steam for 1.5 hours, checking water levels halfway.

Cool and Refrigerate: After steaming, let the logs cool, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.