Aromatically marinated BBQ tofu for your next barbecue
As soon as the temperatures rise and the evenings grow longer, we inevitably gravitate outdoors to the grill. Often, the same old classics end up over the coals. However, it's worth venturing off the beaten path and trying plant-based alternatives.
- 400 g Natural tofu
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup 🛒
- 1 tsp smoked paprika powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 150 ml BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Wrap the tofu in kitchen paper or clean kitchen towels, weigh it down and let it sit for 30 minutes to squeeze out excess liquid.
- Then cut the tofu into slices about 1.5 cm thick.
- Mix soy sauce, maple syrup, paprika powder, garlic powder and apple cider vinegar in a shallow bowl.
- Add the tofu slices and carefully coat them in the marinade. Then spread the BBQ sauce over them and let the tofu marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Lightly oil the tofu slices again. Place them on the grill and grill for about 5-6 minutes per side. Brush the top with a little more marinade or additional BBQ sauce before turning.
BBQ tofu: Plant-based grilling made easy
The rumor that soy products are bland and boring persists. Anyone who has ever tasted an unseasoned piece straight from the packaging might even agree. But this very subtle flavor is its greatest advantage in the kitchen. The block acts like a blank canvas, absorbing flavors exceptionally well. To achieve optimal results, you should squeeze out some of the liquid before marinating. Simply wrap the block in a clean kitchen towel and weigh it down with a heavy pot or book for about half an hour. This creates space inside for the flavorful sauce, and the texture will become significantly firmer when grilled.
A robust barbecue sauce forms the perfect base for your plant-based grilled food. It naturally offers a pleasant sweetness and subtle smoky notes. You can enhance this base to your liking with additional spices such as smoked paprika, a little garlic, or a splash of soy sauce. Cut the pressed block into thick slices and coat them generously in the mixture. The longer the slices marinate, the more intense the flavor will be. A few hours in the refrigerator work wonders and make preparing for your barbecue completely stress-free.
Once you get to the grill, there are a few simple steps for the best results. Lightly brush the grill grate with a little vegetable oil beforehand. This prevents the slices from sticking and falling apart. Place them over the coals at medium heat. The sweetness in the barbecue sauce caramelizes beautifully from the heat, creating an appealing dark crust. Carefully turn the slices with tongs until they are crispy on both sides and show nice grill marks.
These ready-made slices are true all-rounders on any buffet. You can serve them classically alongside grilled vegetables and potato salad, or as a hearty patty sandwiched between two soft burger buns. They also look fantastic sliced over a fresh summer salad. So next time you fire up the charcoal or gas grill, give this plant-based alternative a try. It'll provide some exciting competition for your usual steaks and sausages, and expand your repertoire with a truly great option for all your guests.
Tofu can be really flavorful after all! Be sure to try Burmese tofu, crispy Bang Bang tofu, or crispy tofu with peanut sauce.
