Description
This Chipotle Grilled Tofu recipe features extra-firm tofu marinated in a smoky, spicy chipotle sauce with fresh lime juice, garlic, and cumin, then grilled to perfection. This flavorful vegan dish is perfect as a protein-rich addition to rice, salads, tacos, or grain bowls, offering a delicious smoky flavor and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 16 oz extra-firm tofu
Marinade
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for grilling)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1-inch piece ginger, peeled
- 1 chipotle in adobo pepper
- 3 tablespoons chipotle sauce (from the can)
Instructions
- Press the Tofu: Drain the tofu and place it between paper towels. Place a heavy object, such as a pot of water, on top and press for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, ensuring better texture for grilling.
- Slice the Tofu: Once pressed and drained, slice the tofu crosswise into 1/3-inch slabs, then cut each slab in half to yield about 8 pieces total.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lime juice, chipotle pepper, chipotle sauce, light brown sugar, salt, cumin, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth to create a flavorful, spicy marinade.
- Marinate the Tofu: Arrange the tofu pieces in a shallow dish and brush generously with the marinade, reserving 2 tablespoons to brush later. Allow tofu to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor absorption.
- Grill the Tofu: Using a Grill Pan (Stovetop): Heat a grill pan over high heat for 2-3 minutes. Lightly coat the pan with olive oil and place the marinated tofu pieces on it. Grill for 4-6 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear and tofu is heated through.
Using an Outdoor Grill: Preheat a gas grill over medium-high heat with the lid closed for 10 minutes. Oil the grill grates using oil-soaked paper towels to prevent sticking. Add the tofu, reduce heat to low, close the lid, and grill for 4-6 minutes per side until nicely charred. - Serve: Brush the grilled tofu with the reserved marinade to add extra flavor and moisture. Serve hot alongside rice, salads, tacos, or grain bowls for a complete, delicious meal.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is key to removing excess water, which helps it absorb marinade better and achieve a firmer texture when grilled.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper and sauce based on your preferred spice level.
- For best results, marinate tofu for at least 15 minutes but no longer than 1 hour to avoid overpowering the delicate tofu texture.
- Grill tofu over medium heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- This tofu can also be cooked on a regular skillet if a grill pan or outdoor grill is unavailable, though grilling imparts the best flavor.
- Use extra marinade to baste while grilling or as a dipping sauce for added flavor.
