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"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do you get the most flavor out of tofu?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Squeeze it gently over a sink, then sandwich it between two plates or chopping boards lined generously with kitchen roll. Put some cans or bottles on top to give it weight and leave it for a few hours. The result takes up flavour better and stays firmer in the pan."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Why pour boiling water over tofu?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"It may seem counterintuitive to add water to something you're trying to dry out, but boiling water will actually cause the tofu to squeeze out more moisture, bringing it to the surface and making it easier to blot off, while the salt gently seasons the slices."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do you marinate or press tofu first?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Marinate (4 hr to overnight)

(Optional) Press the tofu gently using your hands or a few layers of paper towel to get rid of excess water. Use this step if you're short on time and need to use less time to marinate the tofu. You can skip this step if you're going to marinate the tofu overnight."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do I need to rinse tofu?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
Yes, you should rinse and dry tofu before cooking it, except for silken tofu:
  1. 1. Rinse
    Remove the tofu from its packaging and lightly rinse it. If your silken or soft tofu is slimy, you can rinse and rub it with your hands until it's no longer slimy. Tofu shouldn't smell sour or off after washing.
  2. 2. Dry
    For medium, firm, and extra-firm tofu, you should remove excess water by pressing it:
    1. Wrap the tofu in a paper towel and squeeze firmly until the paper towel is saturated.
    2. Place more paper towels or a clean kitchen towel on a surface like a cutting board or baking sheet.
    3. Top the tofu with another absorbent towel or two and press gently but firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. 
      \"\"
      Taste of Home
      The 8 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Cooking Tofu - Taste of Home
      Apr 13, 2018 — After removing the tofu from its package, rinse it and then remove the water.
      \"\"
      The Kitchn
      A Guide to Cooking Tofu for Beginners | The Kitchn
      \"\"
      The Foodie Takes Flight
      Homestyle Cold Silken Tofu with Sweet Chili Sauce
      Oct 6, 2021 — PREPARING YOUR SILKEN/SOFT TOFU Drain out the water. You can run your tofu thro...
      \"\"
      Simply Recipes
      What Is Tofu? What It's Made of, How To Press It, and How to Cook It
      After that, open the package and lightly rinse it. ... The next step is critically importa...
Removing excess water can make tofu softer and chewier, and it can also prevent splattering when the tofu comes into contact with hot oil in the pan. However, some say that tofu benefits from water because the salt in the water can infuse flavor and draw out moisture. 
\"\"
The Kitchn
A Guide to Cooking Tofu for Beginners | The Kitchn
\"\"
Epicurious
For a Bouncy, Firm Texture, Give Your Tofu a Hot Bath - Epicurious
Jul 12, 2023 — She notes the technique has long been prevalent in Chinese cooking. “I think t...
\"\"
Simply Recipes
What Is Tofu? What It's Made of, How To Press It, and How to Cook It
After that, open the package and lightly rinse it. ... The next step is critically importa...
Generative AI is experimental. Learn more…Opens in new tab
Show more
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I season tofu?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Press the tofu to eliminate as much water as possible, at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. Marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with flavor. Alternatively, you can skip this step and season the tofu right before cooking with a dash of salt and pepper or paprika and chili flakes."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Why is my tofu so tasteless?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Tofu is naturally very bland. However, it is like a sponge when you introduce it to stronger flavours. It can also taste soggy, but if you fry or bake it, it can become crisper or dryer, with with a much more appealing texture. I use this method for cooking tofu in so many recipes."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Why can't I get my tofu crispy?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The key to crispy tofu is to heat the oil in your pan before adding tofu cubes. Coating the pan-fried tofu in corn flour helps create a crispy coating as the cubed tofu cooks in the oil. Another key to getting uber-crispy tofu is removing excess liquid/moisture from it before you cook tofu."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How to cook tofu for beginners?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
Here are some ways to cook tofu for beginners:
  • Baked
    Press extra firm tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water, then cut into cubes or slabs. Marinate the tofu in an oil or soy sauce-based sauce for about 30 minutes. Place the tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baked tofu can be crispy on the outside and creamy in the middle when hot, and firm and chewy when cool. You can eat it as a snack with dipping sauce, or add it to salads, noodle bowls, or rice bowls.
  • Pan-fried
    Wrap tofu in an absorbent towel and place something heavy on top to remove excess water, then cut into cubes. Heat some oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the tofu. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, occasionally flipping. Then add your desired flavors and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Pan-frying is a simple way to cook crispy tofu cubes.
  • Air fried
    Air frying can crisp up tofu bites, especially if they're coated with a hearty breading. 
    \"\"
    Pinch of Yum
    How To Cook Tofu - Pinch of Yum
    Instructions. Step 1: Press extra firm tofu for at least 30 minutes. Cut tofu into cubes o...
    \"\"
    The Kitchn
    A Guide to Cooking Tofu for Beginners - The Kitchn
    The most common methods for cooking extra-firm and firm tofu are pan-frying, stir-frying,
    \"\"
    Share the Spice
    Easy Tofu Recipe - Share the Spice
    May 14, 2022 — 📖 How to Cook Tofu. Press the tofu. Wrap the tofu in an absorbent towel and pl...
    \"\"
    Allrecipes
    Tofu Recipes for Beginners
    Jul 11, 2020 — Air Fryer Vegan Buffalo Tofu Bites. The air fryer is perfect for crisping up t...
    \"\"
    Damn Tasty Vegan
    Crispy Air Fryer Tofu (perfect every time)
    Aug 12, 2021 — Air frying tofu is the easiest and best way to cook tofu. I love this recipe b...
    \"\"
    The Kitchn
    Baked Tofu Recipe (For Salads, Sandwiches and Snacks)
    Baked tofu is magical. When hot from the oven, it's crispy on the outside and creamy in th...
    \"\"
    Taste of Home
    The 8 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Cooking Tofu | Taste of Home
    Apr 13, 2018 — After removing the tofu from its package, rinse it and then remove the water.
You can also try grilling tofu or scrambling it. If you're new to tofu, you can start by trying it without pressing it, or you can choose firmer tofu for chewier results or softer tofu for a milder texture. 
\"\"
The Kitchn
A Guide to Cooking Tofu for Beginners - The Kitchn
The most common methods for cooking extra-firm and firm tofu are pan-frying, stir-frying,
\"\"
The Plant Based School
Easy Marinated Tofu (3 steps in 30 minutes)
Jan 19, 2024 — If you are new to tofu, our advice is to try it without pressing it. If you li...
Generative AI is experimental. Learn more…Opens in new tab
Show more
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What happens if you don't squeeze water out of tofu?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Here's the thing: even though tofu might be labeled firm or extra-firm, it contains a lot of water. This excess water can cause the tofu to crumble when you cook it, and it will also have a hard time crisping up. But when you press tofu, you remove the excess moisture."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I eat tofu raw?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
Yes, you can eat tofu raw, and it's a good source of protein, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Eating raw tofu can also help limit your fat and calorie intake, as it doesn't contain added oils or fats from cooking. 
\"\"
Healthline
Can You Eat Raw Tofu? - Healthline
Mar 10, 2020 — You can add raw tofu to things like smoothies, purées, and blended sauces, or ...
\"\"
MedicineNet
Can You Eat Raw Tofu? - MedicineNet
Aug 26, 2022 — Both cooked and uncooked tofu is a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium...
\"\"
Food Network
How to Cook Tofu 3 Ways - Food Network
May 11, 2022 — Tofu can be eaten raw, and so cooking it is completely optional and is mostly ...
Before eating raw tofu, you should:
  • Drain: Remove excess liquids
  • Wash: Rinse with clean water
  • Store: Keep it refrigerated to prevent contamination 
    \"\"
    MedicineNet
    Can You Eat Raw Tofu? - MedicineNet
    Aug 26, 2022 — Both cooked and uncooked tofu is a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium...
You can add raw tofu to smoothies, purées, blended sauces, or use it as a base for ice cream. Some say that House Foods Tofu is safe to eat straight from the container because it's pasteurized during manufacturing. 
\"\"
Healthline
Can You Eat Raw Tofu? - Healthline
Mar 10, 2020 — You can add raw tofu to things like smoothies, purées, and blended sauces, or ...
\"\"
House Foods
FAQs - House Foods
Yes. House Foods Tofu is pasteurized during the manufacturing process and is safe to eat f...
Generative AI is experimental. Learn more…Opens in new tab
Show more
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What tofu is best to eat raw?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"For Eating Raw: Pretty straightforward. Soft and silken tofu are ready to go right out of the package (though, technically, any tofu can be eaten raw). Drain off the excess water, and eat up! Draining/Blotting: For block tofu, I like to slit the package and drain out the packing water."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Is soft or firm tofu better?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Firm and extra-firm tofu are dense and solid and hold up well in stir-frys, soups or on the grill. Soft tofu is good for soups and making dips or spreads, where a smoother texture is desirable and the recipe calls for blending, mashing or puréeing."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is the difference between pressed tofu and smooth tofu?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Regular tofu is pressed and has a somewhat spongy texture, and comes in several varieties distinguished by how much water is pressed out. Soft tofu has the least amount of water pressed out, while super-firm has a low moisture content and a dense texture."}}]}}

The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (2024)

Table of Contents
How To Press Tofu Ingredients You’ll Need How To Make Grilled Tofu How To Serve Grilled Tofu Storage Can I Make It Ahead Of Time More Delicious Tofu Recipes The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe Ingredients Instructions Equipment Notes Nutrition More Main Dish Reader Interactions Comments Let Me Hear From You! FAQs References

Published: · Modified: by Shane Martin · This post may contain affiliate links.

Jump to Recipe

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.

The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (1)

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 myCashew 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!

The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (2)

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 purchasesuper firm tofuwhich 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 atofu press. It’s very easy to use and inexpensive. If you don’t have atofu pressit’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 acutting boardor plate, set another plate on top, and place something heavy on top. A cast-ironskillet, books, or canned goods work really well.

This is going to get rid of most of the excess water and only takes about15-20 minutes. I also like to set mine in the fridge overnight. But, it’s not necessary.

The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (3)

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (4)

How To Make Grilled Tofu

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

  1. Combine marinade ingredients in a small bowl, mix well, and set aside while tofu is pressed.
  2. 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.
  3. Heat a non-stickgrill panover 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Remove from the pan, brush with a bit of the leftover marinade, and enjoy!

If you don’t have agrill panyou can very easily bake the tofu.

Preheat your oven to375˚F,line a rimmedbaking sheetwithparchment paper, lay out the tofu in a single layer, and bake for15 minutes. Flip the tofu, brush with more of the marinade, and bake for another 15 minutes.

The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (5)

How To Serve Grilled Tofu

  • Make a delicious sandwich by laying this tofu on some whole grain bread withpickled veggiesandcashew mayo.
  • Serve it overInstant PotBrown Ricewith 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 to1 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.

The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (6)

More Delicious Tofu Recipes

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

  • Tofu Bacon
  • The Best Vegan Frittata
  • Crispy Blackened Tofu
  • Vegan French Toast Casserole
  • Vegan Tofu Scramble
  • Raw Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie
  • Vegan Tofu Sour Cream
The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (7)

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 onInstagramwith the hashtag#shaneandsimple. I want to see your work. Enjoy!

Print

The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe

The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (8)

Print Recipe

5 Stars4 Stars3 Stars2 Stars1 Star

5 from 15 reviews

The best Grilled Tofu recipe.It’s high in protein, low in fat, and requires just5 ingredientsand30 minutes. A simple recipe that’s sure to make you a tofu fan for life.

  • Author: Shane Martin
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Marinate Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Vegan Main Dishes
  • Method: Grill
  • Cuisine: Vegan
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

UnitsScale

Instructions

  1. Drain tofu and press for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Use a tofu press or wrap in a cloth and set something heavy on top like a cast iron skillet.
  2. Combine marinade ingredients in a small bowl, mix well, and set aside while tofu is pressed.
  3. 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.
  4. Heat a non-stickgrill panover 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Remove from the pan, brush with a bit of the leftover marinade, and enjoy!

Notes

If you don’t have a grill pan you can bake this tofu. Preheat your oven to 375˚F, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, and bake the tofu for 15 minutes. Flip the tofu, brush with more marinade, and bake for another 15 minutes.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size:
  • Calories: 181
  • Sugar: 7.1 g
  • Sodium: 266.7 mg
  • Fat: 5.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22.2 g
  • Fiber: 2.1 g
  • Protein: 12.8 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (14)

More Main Dish

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  • Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers with Mushrooms and Lentils
  • Easy Apple Butternut Squash Soup

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (19)Carol Ann McCollum

    Shane…. good grief!! I’m having a problem with your recipes. I need to get out to the garden to plant the gazillion veggie & herb plants I bought…. but… I just sit here printing out recipe after recipe!! Your recipes are amazing!! Thank you for all your efforts & experimentation that it takes to create such healthy vegan recipes for us!! OK… I am turning off my laptop… I am turning off my laptop NOW…. ok…. going out to the garden… now….

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (20)Shane Martin

      Thank you so much…and I’m laughing. LOL!

      Reply

  2. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (21)Kathi

    Another delicious recipe, Shane. You have yet to disappoint! Thank you so very much.

    Reply

      • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (23)Melissa

        When you list the ingredients in the beginning you mention ACV or rice vinegar but when the recipe is actually presented the ACV is missing? Is it in the recipe or no? Thanks!!

        Reply

        • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (24)Shane Martin

          My bad…it should be in there. I’ll fix that:)

          Reply

          • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (25)Sarah

            How much ACV? I’d like to try this tonight but not sure how much to add since the recipe doesn’t have ACV listed yet.
            Thanks

          • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (26)Shane Martin

            It should be down in the recipe card at the bottom of the post

          • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (27)Shelly

            Shane, I still don’t see acv anywhere on the recipe card.

          • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (28)Shane Martin

            Just fixed it…it’s 2 Tbsp. Thanks!!!

  3. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (29)Tessa Flores

    Thank you for this tasty recipe! It was delicious. I served it with a watermelon, cucumber & mint salad and had some left over for tofu and avocado sandwiches. The marinade is fantastic!

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (30)Shane Martin

      Thank you!

      Reply

  4. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (31)Robbie

    This looks good. I wondered if you have ever tried boiling your tofu in salt water for a chewy bite? I’ve been pressing mine for years but found out about boiling and it really made a difference. Looking forward to trying your recipe!

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (32)Shane Martin

      Sounds interesting, but I’ve never tried it.

      Reply

  5. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (33)Becki

    My son can’t have citrus. Would ACV work as an alternative?

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (34)Shane Martin

      ACV is always my go-to sub for lemon and lime juice.

      Reply

  6. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (35)Elke Drayton

    Made this yesterday for my Sunday Lunch and it was delicious it’s a keeper fir sure, the next time I will get my Iron Pan out to get it more crisoy.

    Reply

  7. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (36)Vickie

    Question: Can I use a regular grill (now that it’s the season!) for this if I use a grill-pan of some kind?

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (37)Shane Martin

      YES! I grill this all the time. But, if you like to grill, be sure and check out my newest recipe…you’re going to love it!

      Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (39)Shane Martin

      For sure.

      Reply

  9. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (40)Deborah

    Finally!! A tofu recipe that I love!! Thank you for creating all of your great recipes.

    Reply

  10. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (41)Joanne Freund

    Mmmm, mmm, I LOVE marinating super firm tofu and this marinade is terrific (For the reader who is concerned with sodium – I am also careful with sodium consumption, so I only used one tablespoon of low sodium tamari sauce and cut the block of tofu into 7 slices. I used one slice in a sandwich with arugula, tomatoes, and a simple dressing on a ciabatta roll. That way I am only getting 1/7 (at most) of the marinade and sodium). This is a great party/entertaining food. You can cut the slices so they fit in a small roll and you have a slider. I just love this recipe. I am going to try baking and then freezing, so all I have to do is a quick turn on the griddle before I serve. YUMMY!!!!

    Reply

  11. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (42)Marge Teilhaber

    Shane, If I leave out the tamari or soy sauce or aminos and also leave out the maple syrup, I suppose I should not bother, right? Or maybe sub the 2T each with broth? I love soy sauce but I stay away because the sodium makes my ankles swell. Love maple syrup but not in savory foods.

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (43)Shane Martin

      Hi, Marge! Have you ever tried coconut aminos? Very low in sodium. I would try that before the broth.

      Reply

  12. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (44)Shanna

    I love this marinade. My tofu was delicious. Thanks for the recipe!

    Reply

  13. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (45)Sandra Polichino

    I am on the third day of a three day fast for the purpose of autophagy, This will be my first meal. I can’t wait.

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (46)Shane Martin

      I hope you enjoy it:)

      Reply

  14. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (47)Cyn

    Do you think firm tofu would work? The pieces would then be cooked on a griddle.

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (48)Shane Martin

      Yes, just make sure it is regular tofu and not silken. You will also want to press it before using.

      Reply

  15. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (49)Michelle

    Can you cook on a regular grill?

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (50)Shane Martin

      For sure!!!

      Reply

  16. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (51)Jared

    Came out great!

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (52)Shane Martin

      Great to hear, Jared! Thanks for reaching out.

      Reply

  17. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (53)Jared

    Can I use regular soy sauce instead of Tamari?

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (54)Shane Martin

      Absolutely!!!

      Reply

  18. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (55)Kathy Whitaker

    Can’t wait to try this😊
    I make Shane and Simple SPICY VEGAN BREAKFAST SAUSAGE PATTIES once a week. I make enough to eat one sausage patty every morning for breakfast.
    Great sausage recipe except I leave out the anise as a matter of personal taste.
    Thank you for sharing such great recipes, I have many Shane and Simple recipes stored in my Anylist app and look forward to adding more S and S recipes in the future 😊

    Reply

  19. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (56)Kim

    Wow! It was so easy and has a great flavor from only 30 minutes. I will definitely marinade for longer next time to intensify the great flavor.

    Reply

  20. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (57)Suzi

    Pressing my tofu now. It is wrapped in a cloth diaper! lol Looking forward to trying it. I’m learning to go vegan and appreciate the simplicity. I’m serving this with your instant pot cabbage recipe.

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (58)Shane Martin

      Suzi, that sounds great…and innovative:) Way to go and good luck on your journey. Never hesitate to reach out with a comment or question. Blessings.

      Reply

  21. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (59)Angel Hayes

    I don’t have a grill pan, but agree with you, I love grill marks. Do you think it would work if I let the George foreman get really hot first? I am going to try it unless you have and think it’s a bad idea. It works with my oil free hash browns but have to let them cook for a really long time so they don’t stick.

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (60)Shane Martin

      I think it’s a great idea:) Lately, I’ve just been using cast iron. Enjoy!

      Reply

  22. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (61)Shannon I Duffy

    One of your best recipes! I love it so much I shared with my son.

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (62)Shane Martin

      Wow! Thank you, Shannon! So glad you liked it. Great to hear from you and hope you are doing well. Miss all of you.

      Reply

  23. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (63)Lindsey Hoy

    I had this yesterday with steamed broccoli. It is very good.

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (64)Shane Martin

      Thank you, Lindsey! We love it with broccoli over rice. So glad you enjoyed it. Peace.

      Reply

  24. The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (65)Julie

    Going to buy some tofu and make it this weekend! Thanks, Shane! It looks delicious and simple..my favorite! 🙂

    Reply

    • The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (66)Shane Martin

      Thank you, Julie! I hope you enjoy it. It’s one of our faves. So simple and flavorful. Let me know how it turns out.

      Reply

Let Me Hear From You!

The Best Grilled Tofu Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Which tofu is best for grilling? ›

The type of tofu you choose to grill is super important. I recommend using extra firm tofu so that it holds together well. Other types of tofu will be too soft to place on your grill.

Read The Full Story ›
What is the secret to cooking tofu? ›

Here are some tips that might help when cooking tofu:
  • Press out water
    Pressing tofu before cooking can help it achieve a firmer texture and make it easier to crisp. You can use a tofu press, or you can use other kitchen items. Pressing works best with firm or extra firm tofu, but it's not recommended for silken or soft tofu.
  • Soak in salted water
    A quick soak in salted water can remove excess moisture and tighten the proteins on the surface of the tofu, which can improve its texture and flavor. After soaking, drain the water and pat the tofu dry.
  • Toss in cornstarch
    Lightly coating tofu in cornstarch before cooking can help it develop a crispy crust. The cornstarch forms a protective layer around the tofu that crisps up when heated. You can also use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch instead of cornstarch.
  • Marinate
    Marinating tofu can add flavor and help achieve a more tender texture. You can try marinating tofu in a mixture that includes soy sauce, rice vinegar, avocado oil, garlic powder, and onion powder. Other seasonings you can add include maple syrup, sesame oil, smoked paprika, ginger, and Sriracha.
  • Increase surface area
    Instead of cutting tofu into even cubes, you can try tearing it into irregular chunks to increase its surface area and improve its texture. 
    Pinch of Yum
    How To Cook Tofu - Pinch of Yum
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How do you get the most flavor out of tofu? ›

Squeeze it gently over a sink, then sandwich it between two plates or chopping boards lined generously with kitchen roll. Put some cans or bottles on top to give it weight and leave it for a few hours. The result takes up flavour better and stays firmer in the pan.

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Why pour boiling water over tofu? ›

It may seem counterintuitive to add water to something you're trying to dry out, but boiling water will actually cause the tofu to squeeze out more moisture, bringing it to the surface and making it easier to blot off, while the salt gently seasons the slices.

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Do you marinate or press tofu first? ›

Marinate (4 hr to overnight)

(Optional) Press the tofu gently using your hands or a few layers of paper towel to get rid of excess water. Use this step if you're short on time and need to use less time to marinate the tofu. You can skip this step if you're going to marinate the tofu overnight.

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Do I need to rinse tofu? ›

Yes, you should rinse and dry tofu before cooking it, except for silken tofu:
  1. 1. Rinse
    Remove the tofu from its packaging and lightly rinse it. If your silken or soft tofu is slimy, you can rinse and rub it with your hands until it's no longer slimy. Tofu shouldn't smell sour or off after washing.
  2. 2. Dry
    For medium, firm, and extra-firm tofu, you should remove excess water by pressing it:
    1. Wrap the tofu in a paper towel and squeeze firmly until the paper towel is saturated.
    2. Place more paper towels or a clean kitchen towel on a surface like a cutting board or baking sheet.
    3. Top the tofu with another absorbent towel or two and press gently but firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. 
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Removing excess water can make tofu softer and chewier, and it can also prevent splattering when the tofu comes into contact with hot oil in the pan. However, some say that tofu benefits from water because the salt in the water can infuse flavor and draw out moisture. 
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How do I season tofu? ›

Press the tofu to eliminate as much water as possible, at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. Marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with flavor. Alternatively, you can skip this step and season the tofu right before cooking with a dash of salt and pepper or paprika and chili flakes.

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Why is my tofu so tasteless? ›

Tofu is naturally very bland. However, it is like a sponge when you introduce it to stronger flavours. It can also taste soggy, but if you fry or bake it, it can become crisper or dryer, with with a much more appealing texture. I use this method for cooking tofu in so many recipes.

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Why can't I get my tofu crispy? ›

The key to crispy tofu is to heat the oil in your pan before adding tofu cubes. Coating the pan-fried tofu in corn flour helps create a crispy coating as the cubed tofu cooks in the oil. Another key to getting uber-crispy tofu is removing excess liquid/moisture from it before you cook tofu.

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How to cook tofu for beginners? ›

Here are some ways to cook tofu for beginners:
  • Baked
    Press extra firm tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water, then cut into cubes or slabs. Marinate the tofu in an oil or soy sauce-based sauce for about 30 minutes. Place the tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baked tofu can be crispy on the outside and creamy in the middle when hot, and firm and chewy when cool. You can eat it as a snack with dipping sauce, or add it to salads, noodle bowls, or rice bowls.
  • Pan-fried
    Wrap tofu in an absorbent towel and place something heavy on top to remove excess water, then cut into cubes. Heat some oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the tofu. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, occasionally flipping. Then add your desired flavors and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Pan-frying is a simple way to cook crispy tofu cubes.
  • Air fried
    Air frying can crisp up tofu bites, especially if they're coated with a hearty breading. 
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    Apr 13, 2018 — After removing the tofu from its package, rinse it and then remove the water.
You can also try grilling tofu or scrambling it. If you're new to tofu, you can start by trying it without pressing it, or you can choose firmer tofu for chewier results or softer tofu for a milder texture. 
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What happens if you don't squeeze water out of tofu? ›

Here's the thing: even though tofu might be labeled firm or extra-firm, it contains a lot of water. This excess water can cause the tofu to crumble when you cook it, and it will also have a hard time crisping up. But when you press tofu, you remove the excess moisture.

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Can I eat tofu raw? ›

Yes, you can eat tofu raw, and it's a good source of protein, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Eating raw tofu can also help limit your fat and calorie intake, as it doesn't contain added oils or fats from cooking. 
Healthline
Can You Eat Raw Tofu? - Healthline
Mar 10, 2020 — You can add raw tofu to things like smoothies, purées, and blended sauces, or ...
MedicineNet
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Before eating raw tofu, you should:
  • Drain: Remove excess liquids
  • Wash: Rinse with clean water
  • Store: Keep it refrigerated to prevent contamination 
You can add raw tofu to smoothies, purées, blended sauces, or use it as a base for ice cream. Some say that House Foods Tofu is safe to eat straight from the container because it's pasteurized during manufacturing. 
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What tofu is best to eat raw? ›

For Eating Raw: Pretty straightforward. Soft and silken tofu are ready to go right out of the package (though, technically, any tofu can be eaten raw). Drain off the excess water, and eat up! Draining/Blotting: For block tofu, I like to slit the package and drain out the packing water.

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Is soft or firm tofu better? ›

Firm and extra-firm tofu are dense and solid and hold up well in stir-frys, soups or on the grill. Soft tofu is good for soups and making dips or spreads, where a smoother texture is desirable and the recipe calls for blending, mashing or puréeing.

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What is the difference between pressed tofu and smooth tofu? ›

Regular tofu is pressed and has a somewhat spongy texture, and comes in several varieties distinguished by how much water is pressed out. Soft tofu has the least amount of water pressed out, while super-firm has a low moisture content and a dense texture.

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What firmness of tofu is best for frying? ›

Extra firm tofu – Extra-firm tofu is best, but regular firm will work. Unlike medium or soft tofu, extra-firm is made and packed with very little liquid (which is all pressed out before frying). The wetter your tofu is, the more it will fall apart.

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