Grilled Tofu

As the wife of an avid meat lover, it can be tough (like really tough) to find plant-based protein options that my husband actually enjoys. That is until I stumbled across Grilled Tofu!

The tofu is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup, garlic, cilantro, and red pepper flakes, then grilled until charred on the outside and juicy on the inside.

I recommend serving it over rice or tucking it into a wrap alongside fresh veggies. It also makes the perfect easy dinner with grilled vegetables and some steamed rice or couscous. Regardless of how you serve this dish, even the meat lovers in your group won't be able to resist!

Want more Asian-inspired grilling recipes? Try this Sesame Soy Grilled Tuna and Grilled Asian Pork Tenderloin!

What kind of tofu is best for grilling?

The best kind of tofu for grilling is extra-firm tofu. It holds its shape, doesn't fall apart on the grill, and gets nice and crisp on the outside. Softer types like silken or regular firm tofu are too delicate and will likely stick or crumble.

Flavor Additions or Swaps

Want to add more flavor or don’t have one of the ingredients in the recipe? Try these instead:

• Flavor: Add some freshly minced ginger, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika for even more flavor.
• Maple syrup: If you don't have maple syrup, you can swap it with honey or agave.
• Sesame oil: Swap with olive oil or avocado oil if you're out of sesame oil.
• Soy sauce: I like to opt for low-sodium soy sauce, but you can use any kind you have at home, including coconut aminos or tamari.
• Rice vinegar: Swap in lime juice or lemon juice for the acid if you prefer.

Grilled Tofu Recipe Tips and Tricks

Wondering how to make the best tofu? Here are some of my top tips:

• Use extra-firm tofu. Soft tofu is not intended for grilling, so using it for this dish will not bode well for you. Always check the label before buying to make sure you get extra-firm tofu.
• Press your tofu. All you have to do is cut the tofu in half and microwave for about 2 minutes. This will release most of its liquid. Then, place the tofu between paper towels and top it with some sort of heavy object (like a cutting board or a pan). After 15 minutes, most of its water should have dissipated.
• Let it marinate. The key to this recipe is letting it marinate for a decent amount of time. If you're in a hurry, make sure to let the tofu marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you have all the time in the world, marinate the tofu overnight for the most flavorful results.
• Slicing thickness: About ½ inch thick is ideal. Any thinner and it might fall apart; any thicker and it may not crisp up well on the outside.
• Flip once: This keeps the tofu intact and gives it a better sear. Let each side sit undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to get those grill marks.
• Make skewers: Instead of grilling the tofu in planks, turn them into skewers. Simply cut the tofu into cubes and thread it onto metal or bamboo skewers. Add vegetables if you want for an easy meal.

What if I don't have a grill?

Feel free to use a grill pan or sear the tofu in a skillet on the stovetop. You won't get the same smoky flavor as an outdoor grill, but the marinade will give it tons of flavor!

Grilled Tofu Serving Tips

Grilled tofu can be served in a ton of different ways. However, if you're new to this whole plant-based protein thing, here are a few of my favorite ways to serve tofu:

• With veggies. Pairing this delicious grilled tofu with a big bowl of veggies is a quick and easy way to create a well-balanced meal. I recommend trying grilled mushrooms, asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, bell peppers, zucchini, red onions, or cauliflower, as the flavors blend beautifully.
• Over a bowl of rice. Laying grilled tofu over a bed of Healthy Fried Rice or Easy Sushi Rice is one of the most common ways of serving it for a reason—it tastes amazing! Not only does the rice add a little extra heartiness to the meal, but it does a great job of sopping up any extra marinade, making every mouthful jam-packed with flavor. To make it low-carb, swap out the rice for Cauliflower Rice or Cauliflower Fried Rice.
• In a sandwich or wrap. Tucking this grilled tofu into a pita or wrap alongside some fresh veggies is the perfect way to turn this delicious tofu into a grab-and-go lunch or snack. Whether you're in a rush or just looking for a lighter meal, this one is a winner.
• Add sauce: Kick up the flavor even more with some homemade peanut sauce, teriyaki sauce, or chipotle sauce.
• Salad: Pack in even more plant-based protein with an Edamame Salad, or add some Thai-inspired flavors with a side of Asian Peanut Slaw!
• Noodles: Tofu and noodles are a match made in heaven! Place the grilled tofu on a bed of Healthy Chow Mein or Asian Noodle Bowls for a takeout-worthy dish.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing leftover tofu is super easy, and you can reuse the leftovers in a couple of different ways! Here's how to do it:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 to 5 days.
• Freezer: Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Place leftover tofu in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and slightly crisp. You can also use the oven at 375°F if you're reheating a larger batch. I recommend avoiding the microwave as it can make the tofu rubbery.
• Leftovers: Chop leftover grilled tofu and make Tofu Cauliflower Fried Rice or Tofu Fajitas for an easy plant-based lunch or dinner!

Pro Tip: After thawing your leftover tofu in the fridge, be sure to drain or squeeze out any excess water. Then, reheat in the oven, on the stove, or on the grill until warm.