Description

This Chipotle Grilled Tofu recipe offers a smoky, spicy, and tangy flavor profile, perfect for a delicious plant-based meal. The extra-firm tofu is marinated in a blend of chipotle pepper, lime juice, garlic, and spices, then grilled to achieve beautiful char marks and a savory taste. Ideal for serving with rice, salads, tacos, or grain bowls, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with bold flavors.

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)

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Instructions

Press the Tofu: Drain the tofu and place it between paper towels. Place a heavy object, like a pot of water, on top and press for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Slice the Tofu: Once drained, slice the tofu crosswise into 1/3-inch slabs, then cut each slab in half to yield about 8 pieces.
Prepare the Marinade: In a blender, combine olive oil, fresh lime juice, chipotle pepper, chipotle sauce, brown sugar, salt, cumin, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth to create a flavorful marinade.
Marinate the Tofu: Lay the tofu pieces in a shallow dish and brush them with the marinade, reserving 2 tablespoons for later use. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Grill the Tofu: Using a grill pan on the stovetop: heat the grill pan over high heat for 2-3 minutes, lightly coat with olive oil, then place the marinated tofu. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side until grill marks appear. Alternatively, using an outdoor gas grill: preheat over medium-high heat with the lid closed for 10 minutes. Oil the grates with an oil-soaked paper towel, add the tofu, then turn the heat to low, close the lid, and grill for 4-6 minutes per side.
Serve: Brush the grilled tofu with the reserved marinade to enhance flavor. Serve the chipotle grilled tofu alongside rice, salads, tacos, or grain bowls for a satisfying meal.

Notes

Pressing the tofu properly is essential to remove excess moisture for better grilling and flavor absorption.
You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers or chipotle sauce.
Make sure to preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to get perfect grill marks and prevent sticking.
Leftover grilled tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For a smoky flavor boost, try using a charcoal grill if available.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 15 minutes pressing and 15 minutes marinating)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired