Grilled Tofu Recipe
A delicious plant-based option for the grill! Grilled Tofu is fast, easy and perfect for grilling on the barbecue. This recipe uses a dry rub, making it very adaptable to different spice mixes and fun flavor profiles.
How to Make the Best Grilled Tofu
Grilled tofu is a game-changer for anyone looking to add more plant-based proteins to their summer barbecues. This recipe transforms humble tofu into something truly special with a flavorful dry rub featuring smoked paprika, coriander, and fennel. The result is a smoky, savory dish that even dedicated meat-eaters will enjoy.
The key to perfect grilled tofu is in the preparation. A gentle press removes excess moisture without making the tofu crumbly, while the olive oil helps the spices adhere and creates those beautiful charred grill marks. Unlike marinades that can make tofu soggy, this dry rub technique keeps the exterior crispy while the inside stays tender.
What makes this recipe so versatile is its adaptability. Serve it as a main course with chimichurri sauce, slice it for grain bowls, tuck it into tacos, or layer it in a sandwich. Once you master this basic technique, you can experiment with endless spice combinations—try a Middle Eastern blend, a Mexican-inspired mix, or even a simple lemon-herb version for variety.
Grilled Tofu
A delicious plant-based option for the grill! Grilled Tofu is fast, easy and perfect for grilling on the barbecue. This recipe uses a dry rub, making it very adaptable to different spice mixes and fun flavor profiles.
Ingredients
Tofu
Dry Rub
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu
- Cut the tofu in 1/2 inch slabs. Place the tofu on a towel, press another towel on top and give a gentle press—no need to weight it, as sometimes this makes the tofu too dry. Let this rest in the towels while you mix the spices.
- Mix together salt, pepper, smoked paprika, coriander, onion powder, and fennel in a small bowl.
Season and Grill
- Place tofu on a tray or plate and drizzle olive oil on the tofu. Sprinkle half of the spices over it, making sure to coat it mostly even. Flip over and repeat oil and spices on the other side. You can rub with your hands if needed to spread more evenly.
- Heat up the grill for about 10 minutes and let it get hot. Brush the grates with oil if your grill tends to stick.
- Place tofu on the hot grill and grill about 5 minutes per side until nice grill marks form.
Serving
- Serve with chimichurri sauce for an entree, or tuck into sandwiches, wraps, or bowls.
Notes
- For best results, use firm or extra-firm tofu—silken tofu will fall apart on the grill.
- Feel free to customize the dry rub with your favorite spices like cumin, chili powder, or herbs.
- The tofu can be marinated in the dry rub for up to 24 hours for more intense flavor.
