The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe

Name: The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 block extra firm tofu (NOT Silken); 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; 2 Tablespoons of apple cider vinegar; 2 Tablespoons maple syrup; 2 Tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari; 2 cloves of garlic, minced or 1 Tbsp already minced garlic; 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

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This recipe for grilled tofu is easy to follow, healthy, and delicious. Grilled and charred to perfection, it’s sure to become a favorite among tofu lovers.

Tofu is always getting a bad rap. And, many who speak ill of it have never tried it or simply fail to educate themselves about it and how to use it. But, I’m about to show you the BEST grilled tofu recipe EVER!

You won’t believe how easy it is to make.

This tofu recipe has the best flavor! You can toss it on your salad for some added protein, pile it high on a sandwich with some of my Cashew Mayo, or simply serve it over rice with some steamed veggies and grilled red bell pepper and onions. The possibilities are endless.

Let me show you!

Block of tofu on black and white plate sitting on napkin.

Table of Contents

How To Press Tofu

When you buy tofu it’s packed in water. So, you’re going to want to press it when making baked tofu. But, you can also purchase super firm tofu which is vacuum-sealed and not packed in water. The super firm is my personal choice for this and other meatier recipes.

The easiest thing to do is buy a tofu press. It’s very easy to use and inexpensive. If you don’t have a tofu press it’s still easy to do. All you need to do is wrap your tofu in a clean dish towel or paper towel, set it on a cutting board or plate, set another plate on top, and place something heavy on top. A cast-iron skillet, books, or canned goods work really well.

This is going to get rid of most of the excess water and only takes about 15-20 minutes. I also like to set mine in the fridge overnight. But, it’s not necessary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The marinade is the star of the show, requires very simple ingredients, and adds so much flavor.

1 (14-ounce) block of extra-firm tofu
fresh lime juice (may sub lemon juice)
pure maple syrup
apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
2 garlic cloves, minced
black pepper

Sliced tofu in plastic bag with marinade.

How To Make Grilled Tofu

You can grill tofu on a nonstick grill pan or an outside grill.

Combine marinade ingredients in a small bowl, mix well, and set aside while tofu is pressed.
Slice the tofu into eight ¾″ strips and place in an airtight container or large freezer bag. Pour the marinade over the tofu, seal the container, and allow it to marinate in the fridge for at least 20-30 minutes. But, allowing it to sit overnight is best and will give you maximum flavor.
Heat a non-stick grill pan over medium-high heat, add the tofu slices to the pan, and cook for about 3 minutes per side or until the tofu has browned and charred a bit.
NOTE: This recipe is great for barbecues and cooking on an outdoor grill. Clean the grill grates to prevent sticking and be sure to use a metal spatula.
Remove from the pan, brush with a bit of the leftover marinade, and enjoy!

If you don’t have a grill pan you can very easily bake the tofu.

Preheat your oven to 375˚F, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, lay out the tofu in a single layer, and bake for 15 minutes. Flip the tofu, brush with more of the marinade, and bake for another 15 minutes.

Grilled marinated tofu in grill pan with a lime.

How To Serve Grilled Tofu

Make a delicious sandwich by laying this tofu on some whole grain bread with pickled veggies and cashew mayo.
Serve it over Instant Pot Brown Rice with some steamed veggies with this delicious peanut sauce.
Chop it up, stuff it in some tortillas, then top with cashew sour cream to make some delicious tacos.

Storage

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freeze It: Place the tofu in the marinade then store it in the freezer. Once you’re ready to cook the tofu simply let it thaw in the fridge and prepare as instructed.

Can I Make It Ahead Of Time

This is a great recipe for making ahead of time. Let the tofu soak in the marinade for a couple of days then cook.

Marinated tofu in grill pan with a lime.

More Delicious Tofu Recipes

Although tofu is usually seen as a vegan meat replacement it’s super versatile Check out these delicious recipes.

Grilled and marinated tofu slice on serving plate.

If you make this recipe I want to know. So, please leave a comment below with a star rating. And, be sure and share a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #shaneandsimple. I want to see your work. Enjoy!