Have you been on the lookout for more grill recipes lately? And maybe more specifically, a recipe for grilled tofu? Well then you’re in luck, because today I’m going to teach you exactly how to cook tofu on the grill to perfection every time. It’s easier than you think!
Whether you’re a vegetarian, looking to eat more plant-based food or need a meatless option for you next barbecue, grilled tofu can be a delicious meat-free grilling option!
Photos via Edible Perspective
Grilling tofu: tips for getting it perfect!
I prefer to use extra-firm tofu when grilling because the moisture content is lower and it holds up better on the grill. Tofu that is “firm” will also work but the resulting texture will be much softer. If you have silken tofu, you’ll want to save that variety for vegan quiche and pudding recipes.
Now that we know what type of tofu to use, let’s move on.
There are really only two rules when grilling tofu to ensure you don’t experience a stuck-to-the-grill mess.
1. Oil the grill grates and your tofu. Oiling both the grates and the tofu will help ensure there is no sticking. The tofu should easily flip with the help of a large metal spatula.
2. Temperature is key! You are looking for your grill to be right around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. I used to swear by grilling tofu at 400 degrees but since realized you’ll have much more even cooking, less burnt edges, and a more palatable interior texture. Cooking slightly longer at a lower temperature will also create a thin crust on the exterior of the tofu.
My favorite method for greasing your grill grates is to pour a few tablespoons of a high-heat safe oil (such as avocado, sunflower, safflower, etc.) into a bowl and brush the grates with a silicone brush. You’ll want to do this quickly and just before you set your tofu on the grill.
If your grill is like mine then it has hot spots and lots of them. Not to worry! You’ll just have to keep a closer eye on the tofu and flip as they finish to your liking. Each side will take about 4-8 minutes to achieve a lightly crispy and golden brown exterior with a soft and juicy center.
Yes, I just called this tofu juicy and we haven’t even put sauce on it. And no, I don’t mean watery.
Once the tofu is finished on the grill feel free to slather with your favorite barbecue sauce and stuff into a bun, chop up and toss on a salad, or go the simple route and dunk into ketchup or barbecue sauce.
Recipe for grilled tofu
- 1, 14 ounce package of extra-firm tofu, drained
- High-heat safe oil (such as avocado, sunflower or safflower)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Dried oregano (optional)
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Recipe notes:
- If you’re worried about some of the tofu finishing early preheat your oven (before you start grilling) to 225 F and place on a baking sheet to stay warm while the remaining tofu finishes grilling.
- If you want to eat the tofu at room temp or chilled, place on a cooling rack, allowing to cool at room temperature or in the fridge for about 20 – 30 minutes.
- To store, place cooled tofu in a sealed container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat in the oven at 400 degrees F until heated through or in a sauté pan over medium heat with a bit of oil.
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