Description
This Mediterranean Grilled Tofu recipe features extra firm tofu marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and olive oil, then grilled to perfection. It's a flavorful, protein-packed plant-based dish served with classic Mediterranean sides like hummus, pita, and fresh salad, making it an ideal healthy and satisfying meal for two.
Ingredients
Tofu and Marinade
- 1 package (14oz) extra firm tofu
- 1 tsp coconut sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¾ tsp salt
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ¼ tsp coriander
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp cayenne
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
For Serving
- Hummus
- Pita bread
- Salad (your choice of fresh vegetables)
Instructions
- Press the Tofu: Drain excess water from the tofu. Pat it dry thoroughly and wrap it tightly in a clean towel or paper towel. Place a heavy object like a cookbook on top to press out any remaining moisture. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to achieve a firm texture that absorbs the marinade better.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking the tofu skewers.
- Slice the Tofu: Once pressed, cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes to ensure uniform grilling and easy handling on skewers.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together coconut sugar, dried oregano, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne, olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and tomato paste. Stir until the spices create a smooth, well-incorporated paste.
- Skewer and Marinate: Thread the tofu cubes onto skewers. Brush the tofu generously with the marinade. Let the skewers rest for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to permeate the tofu.
- Grill the Tofu: Place the tofu skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until the tofu develops a nice char and grill marks. Optionally, brush more marinade on the tofu while grilling or reserve some marinade to use as a sauce when serving.
- Serve: Arrange the grilled tofu skewers atop a bed of hummus. Serve alongside warm pita bread and a fresh, crisp salad. Use any leftover marinade as a flavorful drizzle or dipping sauce. Enjoy this vibrant Mediterranean-inspired meal!
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is essential for removing excess moisture and helping it soak up the marinade better, resulting in a more flavorful and firm texture.
- You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
- Grilling times may vary depending on your grill's heat, so keep an eye on the tofu to avoid burning while achieving a nice char.
- For a smoky flavor, consider using a charcoal grill or adding smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- Leftover grilled tofu works great in wraps, salads, or as a protein addition to grain bowls.
- If you don’t have skewers, you can grill the tofu cubes directly on a grill pan, turning carefully to avoid breaking them.
