When summertime rolls around, the sound of sizzling on the grill becomes an irresistible invitation to gather with friends and family. I can still remember the first time I tried grilling tofu—it was a balmy evening with the sun setting beautifully, and I was ready to step outside my comfort zone. Surprisingly, that first bite of Grilled BBQ Tofu became a flavor revelation, unlocking a world of tasty possibilities that went far beyond traditional grilling fare.
This recipe is not just a quick and easy weeknight meal; it’s a delightful way to impress guests at your next barbecue. By simply marinating firm tofu in a luscious date-sweetened barbecue sauce and allowing it to caramelize over the flame, you’ll create a dish that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. Even those die-hard meat lovers at the gathering won’t be able to resist the smoky sweetness that perfectly enhances the tofu’s texture.
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this scrumptious Grilled BBQ Tofu recipe, perfect for anyone looking to ditch the fast food routine and savor something homemade, delicious, and hearty!
Why choose Grilled BBQ Tofu for dinner?
Deliciously Unique: This dish transforms humble tofu into a smoky, flavor-packed delight that impresses even the most devoted meat enthusiasts.
Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cook time, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time!
Versatile Ingredients: Use any barbecue sauce you love for a customized experience; date-sweetened sauce adds a wholesome twist.
Perfect for Everyone: Ideal for gatherings, this grilled tofu will have guests raving about the incredible taste, proving that plant-based meals can truly shine.
Simple Technique: Threading tofu on skewers and grilling is a straightforward method that makes meal prep fun and easy, allowing you to engage your culinary creativity.
Elevate your next barbecue with this tantalizing dish; your taste buds will thank you!
Grilled BBQ Tofu Ingredients
• Get ready to create a tantalizing dish!
For the Tofu
- Firm tofu – Pressed to remove excess moisture for better texture and flavor absorption.
For the Sauce
- Date-sweetened barbecue sauce – A healthier alternative that adds a sweet, smoky kick to your grilled BBQ Tofu. You can also use your favorite BBQ sauce if preferred.
For Grilling
- Wooden or metal skewers – Essential for skewering the tofu; soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning while grilling.
Now you’re all set to enjoy a delightful cooking experience with this Grilled BBQ Tofu recipe!
How to Make Grilled BBQ Tofu
-
Prepare the grill: Lightly oil the grill grates to ensure the tofu doesn’t stick. Set it to medium heat, and if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling.
-
Slice the tofu: Carefully cut the pressed tofu in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 8 long sticks. This will give you the perfect shape for grilling.
-
Skewer the tofu: Thread the tofu sticks onto the skewers lengthwise, making sure to pierce them without going all the way through. This helps them stay intact as they cook.
-
Brush with sauce: Use a basting brush to generously coat all sides of the tofu with your barbecue sauce. Make sure each piece is well-covered for maximum flavor.
-
Grill the tofu: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until you see beautiful grill marks starting to form. If the tofu is browning too quickly, adjust the heat down.
-
Add more flavor: As you flip the tofu, remember to brush on more barbecue sauce each time. Flipping them 4-5 times lets the sauce caramelize beautifully on the tofu.
-
Serve and enjoy: Once grilled to perfection, remove the tofu from the heat. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and watch your friends and family indulge in the delightful flavors!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Grilled BBQ Tofu Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and make this dish uniquely yours!
-
Marinade Madness: Substitute the barbecue sauce with a homemade marinade, mixing soy sauce, maple syrup, and garlic for a different flavor profile.
-
Smoky Twist: Add a touch of smoked paprika to your barbecue sauce for an even more intense smoky flavor that elevates the grilled goodness.
-
Spicy Kick: Toss in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the barbecue sauce for an extra zing that will tantalize your taste buds.
-
Veggie Skewers: Alternate the tofu with colorful veggies like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini to create a vibrant and nutritious skewer array.
-
Greek Inspired: Marinate the tofu in olive oil, oregano, and lemon juice for a Mediterranean twist that pairs well with tzatziki sauce.
-
Sesame Soy: For an Asian flair, use a sesame soy glaze as your marinade, and sprinkle sesame seeds before serving for added texture.
-
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your barbecue sauce is gluten-free or make your own with gluten-free ingredients to cater to dietary needs.
-
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into your barbecue sauce for a fragrant burst of flavor that instantly refreshes the dish.
With these fun variations, you’ll never tire of Grilled BBQ Tofu—each bite can take you on a delicious adventure!
Expert Tips for Grilled BBQ Tofu
- Pressing Tofu: Always press firm tofu to remove excess moisture; this helps the tofu absorb the barbecue sauce better for a more flavorful grilled BBQ Tofu.
- Skewer Smart: Make sure not to skewer through completely; this keeps the tofu sticks intact and easy to handle while grilling.
- Heat Control: Keep an eye on the grill heat; if the tofu starts to burn, lower the heat to prevent charring and achieve those perfect grill marks.
- Flavor Boost: Brush the tofu with more sauce each time you flip it; this allows the barbecue sauce to caramelize, enhancing the rich flavor of the grilled BBQ Tofu.
- Side Pairings: Serve with fresh salads, grilled veggies, or your favorite carb to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled BBQ Tofu
- Fridge: Store leftover grilled BBQ tofu in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the grilled tofu in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be kept for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Brush with some more barbecue sauce for added flavor!
- Wrap for Freshness: If not freezing, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap to preserve their taste and texture during storage.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled BBQ Tofu skewers are a fantastic solution for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings! You can prepare the tofu by cutting it into sticks and skewering them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can marinate the tofu in your date-sweetened barbecue sauce overnight for deeper flavor absorption. When ready to grill, all you need to do is preheat your grill, brush the skewers with more barbecue sauce, and cook them for about 2 minutes on each side. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making mealtime a breeze!
What to Serve with Grilled BBQ Tofu?
Elevate your grilled tofu experience with delightful sides that will make your taste buds dance!
- Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky tofu, balancing flavors beautifully.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweet char from the grill enhances the corn, making it a perfect sidekick to the savory tofu.
- Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this salad offers a textural contrast and keeps the meal light and healthy.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fries echo the sweetness of the barbecue sauce, creating harmony.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a rich, buttery element that complements the seasonings and smokiness of the tofu.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink to cleanse the palate, balancing the rich flavors of grilled BBQ tofu while keeping it casual.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits can provide a sweet, refreshing finish to your meal, lightening the experience.
- Grilled Veggies: A mix of seasonal vegetables adds a smoky depth, marrying perfectly with the grilled tofu for a coherent meal.
Let each bite be a celebration of flavors and textures, making your mealtime an event to savor!
Grilled BBQ Tofu Recipe FAQs
What type of tofu should I use for this recipe?
You should use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best results, as it holds its shape well when grilled. Silken tofu can fall apart, while soft tofu will not provide the necessary texture. Look for blocks that are well-pressed and free from excess moisture to absorb the barbecue sauce beautifully.
How should I store leftover grilled BBQ tofu?
Absolutely! Store leftover grilled BBQ tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the tofu has cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess. I often make a little extra just for the leftovers!
Can I freeze grilled BBQ tofu?
Yes, you can! To freeze grilled BBQ tofu, place it in a single layer inside a freezer-safe bag or container. It will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the grill or in a skillet for that delightful grilled flavor.
Why is my tofu sticking to the grill?
Very importantly, ensure that your grill grates are well-oiled before adding the tofu to prevent sticking. If they still stick, it may be a sign that the grill wasn’t hot enough or the tofu needs a bit more oil. You can also consider using a grilling mat or parchment paper designed for grilling, which makes cleanup easier.
Is this dish suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, but always check the barbecue sauce for allergens, especially if you are using store-bought sauces. Some may contain gluten, nuts, or specific preservatives. To accommodate gluten-free diets, choose a gluten-free barbecue sauce or make your own! Always consult with guests about their dietary restrictions for safe meal enjoyment.
How can I make this recipe kid-friendly?
For a kid-friendly version of this grilled BBQ tofu, consider using a sweeter barbecue sauce, such as one that’s date-sweetened, to appeal to younger taste buds. Additionally, cut the tofu into smaller pieces for easier handling, and let the kids help with brushing on the sauce! This makes cooking a fun family activity!
These Grilled BBQ Tofu Recipe FAQs should help you get the most out of your grilling experience! Enjoy every savory bite!
Savor Grilled BBQ Tofu: The Ultimate Flavorful Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the grill: Lightly oil the grill grates and set to medium heat. Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes if using.
- Slice the tofu: Cut the pressed tofu in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 8 long sticks.
- Skewer the tofu: Thread the tofu sticks onto the skewers lengthwise carefully.
- Brush with sauce: Coat all sides of the tofu with the barbecue sauce using a basting brush.
- Grill the tofu: Cook on the grill for about 2 minutes on each side until grill marks form.
- Add more flavor: Brush on more barbecue sauce while flipping the tofu, doing this 4-5 times for caramelization.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove from heat, serve with favorite sides, and enjoy!