Description
This easy Grilled Tofu recipe features tofu that is crispy on the outside, tender inside, and infused with smoky, savory flavors. Marinated in a flavorful blend of soy, garlic, ginger, and sesame, this tofu is grilled to perfection with beautiful char marks, making it a versatile vegan main dish ideal for summer grilling, rice bowls, salads, wraps, or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Tofu
- 1 (14-ounce / 400 g) block extra-firm tofu, pressed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, optional
- Lime wedges, optional
Instructions
- Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top. Press for 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Then, cut the tofu into thick slices or 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, smoked paprika, and black pepper to create a balanced, flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the tofu: Place tofu pieces in a shallow dish or resealable bag, pour the marinade over them, and gently turn to coat all sides. Allow tofu to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors, or refrigerate up to 4 hours for deeper taste.
- Preheat the grill: Heat an outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400–450°F or 200–230°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and prepare for optimal grilling.
- Grill the tofu: Arrange the marinated tofu slices on the hot grill. Cook for approximately 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown with clear grill marks. For thicker pieces, briefly grill the edges to cook evenly.
- Finish and serve: Transfer the grilled tofu to a serving plate. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Optionally, add fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added brightness and flavor.
Notes
- Best tofu: Use extra-firm or super-firm tofu as it holds its shape well on the grill.
- For extra flavor: Extend marinating time to 2–4 hours instead of just 30 minutes.
- Prevent sticking: Ensure grill grates are fully preheated and lightly oiled before adding tofu to avoid sticking.
- Vegan option: Substitute maple syrup for honey to keep the recipe vegan.
- Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat using a skillet, air fryer, or grill to maintain texture.
- Serving ideas: Pair with grilled vegetables, steamed rice, quinoa, fresh cucumber salad, or use in wraps and grain bowls.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American
