Description
This Chipotle Grilled Tofu recipe offers a smoky, spicy, and tangy flavor profile perfect for plant-based meals. Marinated in a blend of chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic, and spices, the tofu is grilled to perfection, creating delicious grill marks and a satisfying texture ideal for serving alongside rice, salads, tacos, or grain bowls.
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 filled with water, on top and press for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, which helps the tofu absorb more marinade and grill better.
- Slice the Tofu: Once drained, slice the tofu crosswise into 1/3-inch thick slabs. Then cut each slab in half to yield about 8 pieces for grilling.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a blender, combine olive oil, fresh lime juice, the chipotle pepper, chipotle sauce, light brown sugar, salt, cumin, peeled garlic cloves, and peeled ginger. Blend until smooth to create a spicy, tangy marinade.
- Marinate the Tofu: Lay the tofu pieces in a shallow dish and brush them thoroughly with the prepared marinade. Reserve 2 tablespoons of marinade for basting later. Let the tofu marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor penetration.
- Grill the Tofu Using a Grill Pan: Heat a grill pan over high heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Lightly coat the pan with olive oil and place the marinated tofu pieces on it. Grill for 4 to 6 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the tofu is heated through.
- Alternative Outdoor Grilling: Preheat a gas grill over medium-high heat with the lid closed for 10 minutes. Oil the grates using oil-soaked paper towels to prevent sticking. Place the tofu on the grill, reduce heat to low, close the lid, and grill for 4 to 6 minutes per side, allowing the tofu to char and develop smoky flavor.
- Serve: Once grilled, brush the tofu with the reserved marinade to enhance flavor and moisture. Serve immediately along with your choice of rice, salads, tacos, or grain bowls for a satisfying plant-based meal.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is crucial to remove excess water, helping it absorb more marinade and achieve a better grilled texture.
- Marinating for longer (up to 1 hour) intensifies flavor but even a short 15-minute marinade adds great taste.
- If you don’t have a grill pan, an outdoor grill works equally well with proper oiling of grates.
- Use extra-firm tofu to ensure the pieces hold their shape during grilling.
- Brush the tofu with reserved marinade after grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
