Grilled Tofu

A delicious plant-based option for the grill! Grilled Tofu is fast, easy, and perfect for grilling on the barbecue. This recipe uses a dry rub, making it very adaptable to different spice mixes and fun flavor profiles. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this grilled tofu will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a tasty meal in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The dry rub enhances the tofu’s natural taste, providing a savory experience with every bite.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it as an entrée or incorporate it into wraps, sandwiches, or bowls for a satisfying meal.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Customizable Spice Mixes: Experiment with various spices to create unique flavors that suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the ingredients, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes grilling tofu easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Tongs
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The heart of this recipe; it creates those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the tofu without breaking it apart during grilling.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining spices to ensure an even distribution over the tofu.

Ingredients

For the Tofu

• 16 ounces tofu, firm or extra firm (not silken)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel, ground

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Tofu

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

1. Cut the tofu into 1/2 inch slabs.
2. Place the tofu on a towel and press another towel on top gently—there’s no need to weigh it down as that may make it too dry.
3. Let the tofu rest while you mix your spices.

Step 2: Season the Tofu

1. In a mixing bowl, combine salt, pepper, smoked paprika, coriander, onion powder, and fennel.
2. Place the tofu on a tray or plate; drizzle olive oil over it.
3. Sprinkle half of your spice mixture over one side of the tofu, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Flip the slabs over and repeat with olive oil and remaining spices. You may use your hands to distribute evenly.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

1. Heat up your grill for about 10 minutes until it’s hot enough for cooking.
2. Optionally brush grates with oil if needed to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Tofu

1. Carefully place seasoned tofu on the hot grill.
2. Grill each slab for about 5 minutes per side until you achieve nice grill marks.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Remove grilled tofu from heat and serve with chimichurri sauce as an entrée or incorporate into sandwiches, wraps, or grain bowls for versatile meals.

Now you’re ready to savor this delightful grilled tofu dish!

How to Serve Grilled Tofu

Grilled Tofu is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a hearty meal, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

In a Wrap

• Use your favorite tortilla and fill it with grilled tofu, fresh veggies, and a zesty sauce for a quick and satisfying lunch.

On a Salad

• Slice the grilled tofu over mixed greens, add colorful vegetables, and drizzle with your choice of dressing for a nutritious meal.

As an Entree

• Serve the grilled tofu as the main dish alongside rice or quinoa. Pair it with a flavorful sauce like chimichurri for added zest.

In a Sandwich

• Layer grilled tofu between slices of bread with avocado, lettuce, and tomato for a filling sandwich that’s perfect for any time of day.

In a Bowl

• Create a grain bowl by combining grilled tofu with brown rice, beans, and roasted vegetables. Top it off with tahini or your favorite dressing.

Skewered

• Thread pieces of grilled tofu onto skewers along with veggies for an appealing presentation at your next barbecue.

How to Perfect Grilled Tofu

To achieve the best flavor and texture when grilling tofu, follow these simple tips.

• Choose firm tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu holds up better on the grill compared to silken varieties. This ensures it won’t fall apart during cooking.
• Press before grilling: Gently press the tofu to remove excess moisture. This helps in absorbing marinades and prevents sogginess.
• Use oil wisely: Lightly coat the tofu with olive oil before grilling. This not only adds flavor but also prevents sticking to the grill grates.
• Preheat your grill: Heating your grill properly ensures even cooking and nice grill marks on your tofu. Aim for medium-high heat.
• Monitor cooking time: Grill each side for about 5 minutes until you see nice char marks. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the dry rub according to your taste preferences for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Tofu

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Tofu can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs makes an excellent complement to grilled tofu.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil bring out their natural sweetness and pair beautifully with the smoky flavors of grilled tofu.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and brightness to your plate while balancing out the richness of the tofu.
4. Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread serves as a great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any sauces from your meal.
5. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous flavored with herbs offers a light yet filling side that pairs excellently with grilled dishes.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds both sweetness and crunch, making it an ideal summer side dish alongside grilled tofu.
7. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar and herbs provides a cool contrast to warm grilled tofu.
8. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch that complements the savory flavors of the grilled dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling tofu can be simple, but common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of tofu: Always choose firm or extra-firm tofu for grilling. Silken tofu will fall apart and won’t hold its shape on the grill.
• Not pressing the tofu: Failing to press the tofu can result in a watery texture. Use towels to gently press out excess moisture before seasoning.
• Skipping the marinade: While this recipe uses a dry rub, skipping flavoring altogether can lead to bland grilled tofu. Be sure to coat it well with olive oil and spices.
• Grilling at low temperatures: Cooking tofu on a cool grill prevents it from achieving that perfect char. Preheat your grill for at least 10 minutes before placing the tofu on it.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many slabs of tofu at once can lower the grill temperature. Give each piece enough space for even cooking and airflow.
• Ignoring cooking time: Grill each side for about 5 minutes, but keep an eye on them. Overcooking can cause dryness; aim for a nice golden-brown finish instead.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled tofu in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Tofu

• Wrap grilled tofu tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Tofu

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place pieces on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and sauté until heated, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Tofu?

Grilled Tofu is a delicious plant-based dish made by marinating and grilling firm or extra-firm tofu. It’s flavorful, versatile, and perfect as a main dish or in wraps.

How do I know when my grilled tofu is done?

Tofu is ready when it has nice grill marks and feels firm to touch. Aim for about 5 minutes per side on high heat for optimal results.

Can I use different spices for grilled tofu?

Absolutely! Grilled Tofu is highly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with various spice blends or marinades according to your taste preference.

How do I make my grilled tofu more flavorful?

Try marinating the tofu longer before grilling or using different herbs and spices in your dry rub. The more flavor you infuse, the tastier your grilled tofu will be!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Tofu is not only easy and quick to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile! Whether served as an entrée or added to sandwiches and salads, this recipe offers plenty of opportunities for customization. Experiment with different spices or sauces, and enjoy discovering new flavors with every bite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Tofu

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Grilled Tofu is a fantastic plant-based option for any barbecue, delivering rich flavors and a satisfying texture that everyone will enjoy. This easy recipe features firm tofu seasoned with a savory dry rub, making it an adaptable dish perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can create impressive grilled tofu that’s not only delicious but also healthy. Serve it as a main dish, toss it into wraps or salads, or enjoy it in grain bowls for endless culinary possibilities. Get ready to impress your guests with this flavorful and versatile grilled tofu recipe!

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Ingredients

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• 16 ounces firm or extra-firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cut the tofu into 1/2 inch slabs and press between towels to remove excess moisture.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine salt, pepper, smoked paprika, coriander, onion powder, and fennel.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the tofu and evenly coat one side with half of the spice mixture. Flip and repeat on the other side.
4. Preheat the grill on medium-high heat for about 10 minutes.
5. Grill each slab for approximately 5 minutes per side until golden brown with grill marks.
6. Serve hot with your choice of sauce or incorporate into various dishes.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Entrée
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Plant-Based

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 ounces (113g)
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 0mg