Grilled Tofu
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
40 mins
-
Cook Time
5 mins
-
Total Time
45 mins
-
Servings
4 to 6
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
American
Grilled Tofu
Description
Grilled Tofu begins by pressing extra-firm tofu to expel water, improving texture and preventing sticking during grilling. After pressing, the tofu is cut into slabs then coated with avocado oil and a chosen seasoning: fajita, chili, curry powder, or tamari soy sauce. This selection determines the flavor profile, ranging from smoky-spicy to savory umami.
The tofu is grilled on a preheated medium-high grill or grill pan for 2 to 3 minutes per side until distinct char marks develop and the tofu releases easily from the grates. This method imparts a smoky flavor and firm, slightly crisp exterior while maintaining a tender interior.
Depending on seasoning, the tofu is served with lime wedges and cilantro lime dressing for southwestern-style spices, or additional tamari or sesame ginger dressing for the soy sauce option, adding complementary brightness or depth.
Oiling the grill grates helps prevent sticking. When tamari is used, drizzling oil on tofu before grilling is optional; focus on well-oiled grates.
Ingredients
- 2 tofu 14-ounce blocks, extra-firm
- salt sea salt
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil more for brushing, see note
Seasoning options (choose one)
- 1½ tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 1½ tablespoons chili powder
- 1½ tablespoons curry powder
- ¼ cup tamari or soy sauce
For serving (choose one)
- lime wedges and/or
- cilantro lime dressing wedges and/or
- Sesame ginger dressing
Instructions
- Press the tofu. Wrap each block of tofu in a kitchen towel or paper towels. Place a heavy cast iron skillet on top and let it sit for 30 minutes. This helps squeeze excess water out of the tofu, which keeps it from sticking to the grill.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Cut each tofu block into 4 slabs and place on a tray or plate. Drizzle the tofu with the avocado oil and sprinkle with your desired seasoning*. Use your hands to coat both sides.
- Brush or spray the grill grates with oil. Grill the tofu for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until char marks form and the tofu releases from the grill grates. Remove from the grill and season to taste.
- If you seasoned the tofu with fajita seasoning, chili powder, or curry powder, serve with lime wedges and/or cilantro lime dressing. If you seasoned the tofu with tamari, serve with additional tamari or sesame ginger dressing. See the blog post above for additional serving suggestions.
Notes
- Press tofu for 30 minutes with weight to remove excess moisture before grilling to achieve better texture and prevent sticking.
- Oiling grill grates is important to avoid tofu sticking during cooking.
- If tamari is used as seasoning, no need to oil tofu; just make sure grill grates are well-oiled.
- Grill each side 2 to 3 minutes until char marks form and tofu releases easily.